Ghana Criticises US Over Reduction Of Visa Validity

The Government of Ghana has voiced strong disapproval over the United States’ decision to drastically reduce the validity period of B1/B2 visitor visas issued to Ghanaian nationals.

In a formal statement released on July 10, 2025, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the decision as a “substantial variance” from long-standing reciprocal visa arrangements and warned of its impact on diplomatic goodwill and citizens’ mobility.

Under the new visa policy, Ghanaians applying for B1/B2 visas — typically used for business and tourism — will now be issued three-month, single-entry permits, a significant shift from the previous five-year, multiple-entry visas. The Ministry, in its statement, noted that this abrupt change places unexpected constraints on thousands of Ghanaians who regularly travel to the U.S. for a wide range of legitimate reasons, including education, professional engagements, medical treatment, tourism, and family visits.

“The Ministry acknowledges the legitimate concerns of Ghanaian travellers to the United States… and expresses its firm solidarity with all those inconvenienced,” the statement read, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to protecting the rights of its citizens abroad.

While the Ghanaian government recognised the sovereign authority of the United States to determine its immigration and visa policies, it emphasised that such decisions should be guided by fairness, respect for mutual agreements, and an understanding of the broader implications on international relations.

According to the Ministry, the United States had cited high rates of visa overstays by Ghanaian nationals as one of the key reasons for the new restrictions. However, Ghana has indicated its willingness to cooperate with U.S. authorities to improve compliance and reinforce visa regulations. “We hope for an early resolution of the concerns… including by ensuring that the conduct of applicants aligns with the visa application procedures and requirements of the United States,” the statement added.

To underscore its own commitment to reciprocity and fair treatment, Ghana revealed that between January and July 2025, its diplomatic missions in Washington D.C. and New York issued over 40,000 visas to U.S. citizens, with 70% of those being multiple-entry visas. This, the Ministry argued, highlights Ghana’s good faith and long-standing cooperation with the United States in facilitating travel and people-to-people relations.

The government also disclosed that Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Ablakwa, recently led a high-level delegation to Washington to engage with U.S. officials on the matter. The talks, according to the Ministry, were productive and provided a platform for further diplomatic negotiation.

“Government will, at its highest levels, sustain best efforts in strengthening relations with the United States in a manner that further enhances people-to-people relations,” the statement concluded.

The U.S. Embassy in Accra has yet to issue an official response to Ghana’s concerns. However, the move has stirred reactions among Ghanaian citizens, civil society groups, and members of the diaspora, many of whom view the policy change as harsh and unnecessary. For frequent travellers, students, and business professionals, the change not only introduces new logistical challenges but may also affect long-term plans involving the U.S.

Analysts suggest that if not reversed or reviewed, the new visa regime could strain diplomatic ties between the two countries and disrupt the flow of travel, tourism, and professional collaboration that both sides have long benefited from.

As diplomatic efforts continue, affected travellers are being advised to monitor updates from Ghana’s Foreign Ministry and U.S. diplomatic missions for guidance on next steps. Meanwhile, both governments are expected to keep communication channels open as they seek a resolution that balances immigration enforcement with mutual respect and fair treatment of citizens.