The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially responded to the US government’s recent changes to visa policies affecting Ghanaian citizens. The new policy reduces the validity of B1/B2 visas from five-year multiple-entry to three-month single-entry visas.
The Ministry expressed optimism about reaching an early resolution, acknowledging that the changes were primarily linked to visa overstays. Ghana is committed to working swiftly and collaboratively with the US government to address these concerns. The government emphasized the importance of ensuring Ghanaian applicants align with US visa application procedures and requirements.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs refuted misinformation, clarifying that approximately 70.42% of visas issued to US passport holders were long-term, multiple-entry visas. Between January and July 2025, Ghana’s missions in Washington DC and New York issued 40,648 visas to US citizens, with 28,626 being multiple-entry visas.
The Ministry acknowledged the legitimate concerns of Ghanaian travelers to the US for professional, business, educational, tourism, medical, and family-related purposes. Ghana recognizes the sovereign right of every country to determine its visa regime but notes that the present limitations imposed by the US vary substantially from prior reciprocal arrangements.
The government has pledged to work expeditiously with US counterparts to address the issue. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, recently led a delegation to engage with US officials on matters of mutual concern. Ghana remains committed to prioritizing its relations with the US and strengthening cooperation for mutual benefit.
