Ghana Criticises US Over Visa Restrictions

The Government of Ghana has strongly criticised the United States for drastically reducing the validity of B1/B2 visas for Ghanaian nationals from five years multiple-entry to just three months single-entry.

Ghanaian authorities described the visa rule change as a disruption to longstanding bilateral arrangements between the two countries.

In a statement dated July 10, 2025, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the new U.S. visa policy marks a “substantial variance” from previous reciprocal terms agreed upon by both nations.

“The Ministry acknowledges the legitimate concerns of Ghanaian travellers to the United States for professional, business, educational, touristic, medical, and family purposes, and expresses its firm solidarity with all those inconvenienced,” the statement read.

While recognising the US government’s sovereign authority to shape its visa policies, the ministry pointed out that the abrupt limitations starkly contrast with prior understandings.

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It said Ghana was closely studying the implications of the new policy and remained committed to pursuing a diplomatic resolution.

“We hope for an early resolution of the concerns that have led to the revision of the schedule, which have been confirmed to be overstays, including by ensuring that the conduct of applicants aligns with U.S. visa application procedures and requirements,” the statement added.

Ghana also emphasised its commitment to reciprocity, noting that its missions in Washington D.C. and New York issued more than 40,000 visas between January and July 2025, 70% of which were multiple-entry visas granted to U.S. citizens.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, recently led a delegation to Washington, D.C., for high-level talks to address the issue.

The ministry described the discussions as “fruitful” and said they laid the groundwork for further diplomatic engagement.

“The 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 ties,” the statement concluded.