U.S. Visa Restrictions Now Affect Ghana: Single-Entry, 3-Month Limit Raises Concerns
The Government of Ghana has confirmed that the United States has revised its non-immigrant visa policy for Ghanaian nationals, reducing the duration of most travel visas from multi-year, multiple-entry access to a single-entry visa valid for just three months.
The change, which was first observed earlier this week, mirrors a broader visa policy adjustment the U.S. has made for several African countries, including Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ethiopia, as part of what Washington describes as a global visa reciprocity review.
In a statement issued Friday, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the new U.S. visa regime as “inconsistent” with existing bilateral agreements between both countries.
What Has Changed?
Previously, Ghanaian nationals could apply for B-class (tourism/business) and F-1 (student) visas valid for up to five years and allowing multiple entries into the United States. Under the new U.S. guidelines, however, most new visa applicants will be limited to a single-entry visa that expires in three months.
Student visa holders enrolled in full-time academic programs in the U.S. are also affected and must now apply for new visas if they need to exit and re-enter the country after three months.
Ghana Rejects Reciprocity Claims
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, pushed back on claims that the U.S. decision was a response to a similar change in Ghana’s visa policy. According to the minister, Ghana continues to offer multiple-entry visas of up to five years to U.S. citizens.
“Our embassies in Washington, D.C., and New York have issued more than 40,000 visas to U.S. nationals this year alone, with over 28,600 of them being multiple-entry visas,” the ministry stated. “This policy shift from the U.S. is not in alignment with our treatment of American passport holders.”
The ministry emphasized that Ghana also offers a range of long-term visas to U.S. citizens, from six months to five years, depending on purpose and application status.
Visa Overstays at the Heart of the Dispute
According to Ghanaian officials, the U.S. Department of State cited visa overstays—particularly by students—as the key driver of the change. The U.S. reportedly considers Ghana’s overstay rate, currently at 21%, above the acceptable threshold of 15%.
In response, Ghana says it is “studying the development carefully” and remains committed to working with U.S. authorities to improve compliance with visa conditions and prevent misuse of travel privileges.
Broader African Impact
The U.S. visa policy changes are part of a broader recalibration affecting several African countries:
- Nigeria confirmed it was affected, though government spokespersons denied that Nigerian policy had triggered the shift.
- Cameroon and Ethiopia also reported similar reductions in U.S. visa durations for their nationals.
These changes come at a time when global migration policy is under heightened scrutiny, and nations are reevaluating the terms of cross-border movement, especially as it relates to education, business, and tourism.
Ghanaian public figures have begun voicing concern over the economic and social implications of the policy change. Former Member of Parliament Ras Mubarak shared his experience of receiving a three-month visa instead of a renewal of his prior five-year visa, describing the change as a setback for African travelers.
“This will impact tourism, business, and education,” Mubarak posted on social media. “No serious businessperson wants to reapply for a visa every three months. It’s costly, time-consuming, and discouraging.”
He also noted the broader consequences of the move: “People will now start exploring alternative markets for business and education. America may no longer be the first option for many Africans.”
In response to these developments, Mubarak announced he is leading a campaign to promote visa-free travel across Africa, aiming to improve intra-African movement and reduce dependency on Western destinations.
He plans to embark on a road trip across 39 African countries, advocating for policies that support regional integration, boost tourism, and create economic opportunities within the continent.
What’s Next?
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue dialogue with U.S. authorities and review policy options that best serve the country’s national interest while promoting cooperation.
While no retaliatory visa restrictions have been announced, analysts suggest the Ghanaian government may be forced to reconsider its visa offerings to U.S. citizens if no diplomatic resolution is reached in the near future.
For now, Ghanaian nationals planning to travel to the U.S. for education, tourism, or business are advised to review the new visa guidelines carefully and plan well in advance.
