Thomas Partey: Ghana seeks Canada Visa ahead of World Cup opener

The Ghanaian government says it is using diplomatic channels to try to secure entry clearance for midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the Black Stars' opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said officials were working urgently to resolve the issue after Canadian authorities reportedly denied Partey a Temporary Resident Visa.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Monday, Mr Ablakwa said the government remained hopeful of a positive outcome before Ghana's first match of the tournament.

"We are using all diplomatic channels available to us and remain hopeful that this matter can be resolved before Ghana's opening game," he said.

Canadian immigration authorities are reported to have based their decision on ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom.

The Ghanaian government has formally protested the decision, arguing that it is inconsistent with the principle of presumption of innocence.

Mr Ablakwa said the player had pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and had not been convicted of any offence.

He argued that denying him entry before the legal process had concluded risked undermining due process.

The minister described the decision as unfair and said Ghana had requested a review of the case.

Partey is considered a key member of the Black Stars squad, and officials have expressed concern about the potential impact of his absence on the team's World Cup campaign.

Mr Ablakwa said he had held discussions with Canadian officials, including Canada's High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, as part of efforts to resolve the matter.

While FIFA has indicated that visa and immigration decisions fall within the jurisdiction of host nations, Ghana says it will continue to pursue diplomatic engagement and explore available legal options.

Officials hope the issue can be resolved in time for Partey to join the national team before Ghana's opening fixture against Panama.

With the start of the tournament approaching, efforts to secure the midfielder's participation remain a priority for Ghanaian authorities.