The new rules reduce visas from five years with multiple entries to just three months with a single entry, a move Accra says risks disrupting business, educational, and family connections between the two countries.
Concerns Over Disrupted Travel
In a press release dated July 10, 2025, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the US decision as a “substantial variance” from the spirit of reciprocity that has defined visa policy between the two nations for years.
“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.
Ghanaian officials warned that the new restrictions could hurt professionals and families who rely on flexible travel arrangements, complicating people-to-people ties that have long been central to Ghana-US relations.
Recognising US Sovereignty, Calling for Diplomacy
While voicing its criticism, Ghana’s government also acknowledged the sovereign right of the United States to determine its visa policies. However, it noted that the latest limitations differ markedly from existing agreements that have typically allowed for greater freedom of movement.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that it was studying the situation closely but remained committed to finding a diplomatic resolution.
“We hope for an early resolution of the concerns that have led to the revision of the schedule, which have been confirmed to be overstays, including by ensuring that the conduct of applicants align with the visa application procedures and requirements of the United States,” the ministry noted, indicating that visa overstays were at the heart of the US government’s move.
Demonstrating Ghana’s Commitment to Reciprocity
In defending its own track record on reciprocity, the Ghanaian government shared data showing that its missions in Washington D.C. and New York issued over 40,000 visas between January and July 2025. Notably, 70% of these were multiple-entry visas for US citizens—suggesting, officials argued, Ghana’s willingness to facilitate long-term travel by Americans.
The ministry said this statistic demonstrated its commitment to maintaining an open and balanced visa policy in line with international norms and mutual respect.
Ongoing High-Level Engagement
Ghana also revealed that it is not leaving the matter to chance. Foreign Minister Samuel Ablakwa recently led a diplomatic delegation to Washington to address the new visa restrictions directly with American counterparts.
According to the ministry, those discussions were “fruitful” and helped lay the groundwork for continued diplomatic engagement aimed at restoring a more reciprocal arrangement.
“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,” the statement concluded, reaffirming Ghana’s broader commitment to preserving its longstanding ties with the United States despite this new source of friction.
Broader Implications
Observers say the dispute underscores the challenge of balancing border security concerns, such as visa overstays, with the need to sustain friendly bilateral ties and enable cross-border business and family connections.
While the US has cited concerns over compliance with visa conditions, Ghana’s response highlights the importance of dialogue in resolving such tensions without undermining decades of close diplomatic and economic cooperation.