World Cup 2026: Why US allowed Partey’s entry but Canada refused him visa
Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey was allowed entry into the United States of America (USA) despite facing legal charges in the United Kingdom due to US Customs and Border Protection’s interpretation of immigration rules.
However, Canada denied his visa application, citing immigration laws that allow refusal of entry to individuals accused or convicted of certain offenses. However, Partey has not been convicted and is yet to stand trial.
The US clarified that he was admitted into the country after receiving a valid visa, deferring questions regarding Canada’s decision to deny his entry.
In a statement to Sky Sports News, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office said: “On June 3, 2026, CBP officers inspected and admitted Ghana national, Thomas Partey, into the United States.
“The. U.S. is aware of the pending court case for Mr Partey, however, at this time, he has not been convicted of a crime and was admitted to the United States after being issued a visa. All travelers seeking entry into the United States, including athletes, coaches, and staff, are subject to CBP inspection.
“Admissibility determinations are made on a case-by-case basis using law enforcement, national security, and immigration information available at the time of inspection. CBP officers have the authority to question travelers, conduct inspections, and determine admissibility consistent with U.S. law. CBP’s defers to Canada for questions on his denial of entry.”
Partey, who left Arsenal for Villarreal in June 2025, was charged in July 2025 with five counts of rape and one allegation of sexual assault, dating back to 2021 and 2022.
In February 2026, it was announced that Partey had been charged with two additional rape allegations dating back to December 2020.
The footballer has appeared previously in the dock to plead not guilty to all charges – seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
The midfielder, who previously lived in Potters Bar in Hertfordshire, joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 in a transfer worth around £45million.
The next hearing in his case has been set for October 2, 2026, with the trial set to begin on June 8, 2027.