Ghana has responded to the United States’ recent changes to its visa reciprocity policy, which now limits B1/B2 visas for Ghanaian nationals to just three months with a single entry. This marks a significant reduction from the previous five-year, multiple-entry arrangement that many Ghanaians have relied on for travel related to business, education, tourism, medical care, and family visits.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, the government expressed concern over the impact of the new policy and assured affected citizens of its solidarity. The Ministry described the move by the US as a sharp departure from the longstanding reciprocal visa arrangements that have existed between the two countries.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the government is carefully studying the situation and weighing its options. He added that Ghana remains committed to engaging the United States in dialogue to find a mutually acceptable solution.
The US government has cited visa overstays by some Ghanaian travelers as one of the reasons for the change. In response, Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that its citizens comply with all US visa requirements.
From January 2025 to date, Ghana’s missions in Washington, D.C., and New York have issued a total of 40,648 visas, with 28,626 being multiple-entry. The government also pointed out that US nationals continue to enjoy Ghana’s generous visa regime, with most applicants receiving five-year, multiple-entry visas upon request.
To correct misinformation circulating in some quarters, the Ministry clarified that over 70 percent of visas issued to US passport holders are long-term, multiple-entry visas. Ghana also offers a range of visa options from six months to four years depending on the applicant’s needs.
The statement further emphasized Ghana’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with the United States. Under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, the government remains focused on deepening ties and promoting cooperation. As part of these efforts, Hon. Ablakwa recently led a high-level delegation to the US, where fruitful discussions were held with American officials.
The government concluded by assuring the public that it will continue to work towards strengthening people-to-people connections and fostering mutual understanding between Ghana and the United States.
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