Canada’s Visa Rejections Impacts World Cup Fans

Sharp Differences Between Countries Applying for Immigration Permissions

Data reported from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) showed that nearly 17,000 World Cup-related applications were processed from more than 160 countries between November and March, with only around 41 per cent approved.

The rejection rates varied widely. Ghana, one of the largest sources of applications, reportedly had only11 per cent of its 1,725 applications approved. Pakistan’s approval rate was at under 9 per cent, while Indian applicants also faced a high refusal rate, with only about 29 per cent approved.

By contrast, travellers from Australia, Germany, Croatia and New Zealand had all of their eTA requests granted during the same period.

Fans travelling to Canada for the World Cup must obtain the correct travel document before arrival. Depending on their citizenship and how they travel, they may need either a visitor visa, also known as a temporary resident visa, or an electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers coming to Canada.

Nationals from the UK, European Union nations, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, and Japan are visa-exempt visa but do require an eTA for short-term stays of up to six months.

Applying for a temporary resident visa is a more detailed process that requires supporting paperwork to show proof of funds, travel plans and ties to an applicant’s home country.

Partey Case Highlights Visa Scrutiny

The visa issue was underlined by the case of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, who was refused entry to Canada and missed Ghana’s opening World Cup match against Panama in Toronto.

It is claimed the Canadian decision related to ongoing criminal proceedings in the UK, where Partey faces charges of rape and sexual assault, which he denies. His legal team challenged the refusal, but a Canadian federal court rejected the appeal, reinforcing that World Cup accreditation does not override Canada’s immigration rules.

A IRCC spokeperson told the BBC: ”Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws.

“Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies.”

No Special Route for 2026 World Cup Ticket Holders

Canada has not created a special World Cup visa for fans. Purchasing match tickets does not guarantee entry, and applicants must meet the same requirements as other temporary visitors. Canadian officials have said they are working with FIFA and federal partners to make travel as smooth as possible while maintaining safety and security standards.

Previous tournaments have used event-specific entry systems, but Canada opted to rely on its standard immigration framework for this year’s event.

How Can IAS Help With Your Canadian Immigration Application?

IAS have a team of immigration consultants and caseworkers experienced in the field of Canadian immigration.

Our CICC-qualified immigration consultants can help you with numerous facets of Canadian immigration, including skilled worker, family, student or provincial-based immigration.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help on your situation today. Call us on +1 844 312 4979 or reach out to us online.