Ghana is taking steps to engage the United States following new visa restrictions that have sparked concern among travelers and stirred political debate.
This comes after the US revised their travelling policy against some countries including Ghana.
Under a revised policy by the U.S. Department of State, most Ghanaian applicants for non-immigrant visas—such as those for business, tourism, and study—will now receive single-entry visas valid for only three months.
This is a sharp shift from the previous regime that allowed multiple entries over a five-year period.
The change has prompted criticism from sections of the public and some international relations commentators, who have linked the policy shift to recent tensions between Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and U.S. official.
In a statement dated Thursday, July 10, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed those allegations and urged the public to focus on facts rather than speculation.
“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.
The Ministry emphasized that while the United States has the sovereign right to alter its visa regime, the changes represent a significant departure from the reciprocal visa arrangements long maintained between the two countries.
The Ministry pointed out that from January 2025 to date, Ghana’s diplomatic missions in Washington, D.C., and New York have issued over 40,600 visas to U.S. citizens. Of these, more than 70% were multiple-entry visas, including the maximum five-year type often granted upon request.
“The official statistics clearly demonstrate that contrary to false narratives, Ghana has issued, on average, an impressive 70.42% of multiple long-term visas to US passport holders, consistent with our bilateral arrangements,” the Ministry noted.
While refraining from retaliatory measures, the government indicated that it is closely analyzing the situation and will consider its options. In the meantime, efforts are underway to restore full visa reciprocity through dialogue.
“The Government of President John Dramani Mahama will continue to prioritise Ghana’s relations with the United States and is resolved in working on all areas of cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.”
The statement also acknowledged concerns raised by the U.S. regarding visa overstays and affirmed Ghana’s readiness to collaborate in ensuring that applicants comply fully with U.S. immigration requirements.
The government concluded by reaffirming its commitment to maintaining strong Ghana–U.S. relations, describing them as critical for both economic cooperation and people-to-people ties.
Below is the statement:
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
