Ghana Responds to New U.S. Visa Restrictions
The Government of Ghana has officially responded to the United States’ decision to reduce the validity of B-class (business/tourism) and F-class (student) visas for Ghanaian nationals. The new policy, which took effect on July 1, 2025, reduces B1/B2 visas from a five-year multiple-entry visa to a single-entry visa valid for three months, and F1 student visas from five years to just one year.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government expressed concern about the implications for Ghanaian citizens travelling for legitimate purposes such as business, education, medical care, and tourism. While acknowledging the United States’ sovereign right to determine its visa policy, Ghana emphasized that the decision disrupts long-standing reciprocal arrangements between the two nations.
Between January and July 2025, Ghana issued 40,648 visas to U.S. nationals. Of these, over 70 percent were long-term, multiple-entry visas, typically valid for five years. Ghana’s policy has been consistent in supporting bilateral engagement and accessibility, and the sudden shift in U.S. visa policy has raised diplomatic concerns.
The U.S. State Department has cited Ghana’s alleged non-compliance with international obligations to accept the return of deported Ghanaian nationals as the basis for the policy change. This move is reportedly part of visa sanctions under Section 243(d) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.
Commitment to Dialogue and Fair Resolution
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, led a high-level government delegation to Washington D.C. to engage in discussions with U.S. counterparts. According to the Ministry, the meetings yielded significant progress and laid the foundation for ongoing diplomatic engagement aimed at reversing or easing the new restrictions.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong bilateral ties with the United States and to upholding people-to-people relations that are key to development, education, and cultural exchange. Ghana also reiterated its pledge to ensure that citizens applying for U.S. visas comply with all application requirements and conduct themselves responsibly to avoid future sanctions.
Ghana is hopeful that continued dialogue and mutual understanding will lead to the restoration of previous visa arrangements or a more balanced policy in the near future. The government remains committed to protecting the interests of Ghanaian travellers while working closely with global partners to strengthen cooperation and diplomacy.
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