Accra, Ghana – The US restores visa access for Ghanaian citizens, reinstating five-year multiple-entry visas after months of strained diplomatic ties over deportation disputes. The announcement, made during bilateral meetings at the UN General Assembly in New York, marks a significant shift in relations between Washington and Accra.
Ghana’s foreign minister, Samuel Ablakwa, confirmed on Friday that the United States had formally lifted the restrictions. He said the decision was communicated by Allison Hooker, US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, following what he described as “months of high-level diplomatic negotiations.”
“This good news means Ghanaians can now benefit from five-year visas and other enhanced consular privileges,” Ablakwa said in a statement, adding that the agreement highlights Ghana’s renewed commitment to constructive engagement with the US.
The policy reversal ends a period of tension that began earlier this year, when the State Department reduced visa validity for several African countries—including Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ethiopia—to three months, single entry. The move was part of a reciprocity programme and linked to countries’ reluctance to accept deported nationals.
Ghana’s government shifted course in September when President John Mahama disclosed that his administration had agreed to accept West African nationals, including Nigerians, deported from the United States. The concession appears to have unlocked Washington’s decision to restore long-term visa privileges.
On Saturday, the US embassy in Accra confirmed the restoration. “The maximum validity allowed for the B1/B2 visitor visa is again five years, multiple entry,” the embassy said. “The maximum validity for the F1 student visa is again four years, multiple entry.”
The decision is expected to ease travel for Ghanaian students, business leaders, and families, while improving bilateral relations. Analysts say the restored access underscores Washington’s reliance on diplomatic leverage to secure cooperation on migration issues, while offering Ghana tangible benefits in return.
For many Ghanaians, the return of long-term visas will reduce the financial and logistical strain of frequent renewals, potentially spurring stronger ties in trade, education, and cultural exchange between both nations.
