The cross-border mobility of athletes, coaches, officials and administrators plays an increasing role in international sport. But the visa denials, delays, and immigration restrictions have become glaring obstacles to involvement in international sports competitions. This study investigated visa refusal issues and looked into the role of sports governing bodies that will assist in making athletes and sports stakeholders participate internationally in Ghana. The study was based on an interpretivist paradigm and a qualitative case study design guided by four theories (Stakeholder Theory, Institutional Theory, Good Governance Theory and Network Governance Theory). Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from 25 participants, which included sports administrators, athletes, coaches/team managers, and sports governing body officials. Correspondence and other relevant documents, such as visas and organisational reports, were also examined. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data. The results indicated that visa refusal, visa delays, too much paperwork and financial strain had a negative impact on the preparation, participation opportunities and international exposure of athletes. Support was offered by sport’s governing bodies in the form of documentation, advocacy, embassy engagement, and stakeholder coordination, but these modes of support were inconsistent and not clearly institutionalised. The participants suggested the creation of special international participation units, a formal visa-support policy, better cooperation with immigration authorities, and better administrative capacity building. The study has found that collaborative governance is a key factor in fostering equitable participation of athletes in sports across the globe and in enhancing athlete mobility.