Government has formally responded to recent visa restrictions imposed on Ghanaian visa applicants by the United States, voicing concern over the reduction in visa validity for travelers and reaffirming its commitment to upholding bilateral relations.
In a press statement released on July 10, 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed solidarity with affected Ghanaian nationals following the US Government’s revision of the reciprocity schedule that shortens B1/B2 visa validity from five years multiple entry to three months single entry for Ghanaian passport holders.
“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 Government emphasized its respect for the sovereign right of nations to determine their visa regimes but noted a departure from prior reciprocal practices.
“The present limitations imposed by the United States vary substantially from the prior reciprocal arrangements that Ghana has kept with the United States,” it added.
According to the Ministry, over 40,000 visas have been issued by Ghana’s missions in Washington D.C. and New York from January to date, with more than 28,600 of them being multiple entry visas.
The Government highlighted that US passport holders are entitled to up to five-year.
It assured that the government 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.
“To this end, as part of efforts to consolidate bilateral relations, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), Minister for Foreign Affairs, last week, led a team of high-level officials to discuss with their counterparts in the United States, issues of concern to both countries. Those discussions reached significant outcomes and set a clear pathway for further fruitful engagements.
“Government will, at its highest levels, sustain best efforts in strengthening relations with the United States in a manner that further enhances people to people relations in the mutual interest of both countries.”
