Ghanaians can once again apply for five-year multiple entry visas to the United States, following the reversal of visa restrictions imposed earlier this year.
The decision, which reinstates enhanced consular privileges, has been hailed as a major diplomatic victory for Ghana by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The announcement was formally conveyed to Minister Ablakwa by US Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The US Embassy in Ghana also confirmed the significant policy change via its official X (formerly Twitter) page.
“The US Embassy is pleased to announce that the maximum validity periods for all categories of nonimmigrant visas for Ghanaians have been restored to their previous lengths.”
“The maximum validity allowed for the B1/B2 visitor visa is again five years, multiple entry. The maximum validity for the F1 student visa is again four years, multiple entry,” the statement read.
Minister Ablakwa welcomed the development, describing it as the successful outcome of sustained high-level diplomatic engagement. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties with the United States.
It will be recalled that in July, the US imposed visa restrictions on Ghana and several other countries, limiting applicants to a maximum three-month, single-entry visa.
The restrictions, enacted during the Trump administration, cited longstanding concerns about visa overstays—particularly among Ghanaian students.
The policy shift sparked concern among travelers and diplomatic stakeholders, prompting swift negotiations between both governments.
The recent reversal, secured during the UN General Assembly, is being celebrated as a sign of “healthier and stronger Ghana–US relations” and is expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation between the two nations.
Source: graphic.com.gh
