The United States Embassy in Ghana has announced a revision to its visa policy, limiting non-immigrant visas for Ghanaians to single-entry permits valid for three months. This change mirrors Ghana’s visa policy for American citizens, which also offers single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.
Background
The US Department of State cites the principle of visa reciprocity as the reason for this policy shift. Visa reciprocity ensures that US visa policies for foreign nationals are aligned with the visa policies of their home countries towards US citizens. Ghana’s visa policy for Americans prompted the adjustment, with Ghana previously issuing multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years to US applicants before changing to a three-month single-entry policy.
Impact on Ghanaians
The new policy may impact thousands of Ghanaians, including:
– Students: F-1 visa holders will now be issued single-entry visas valid for three months.
– Business Travelers: B1 visa holders will need to apply for a new visa for each trip.
– Tourists: B2 visa holders will face increased costs and administrative burdens.
Exceptions
– Diplomats: Holders of A-class visas will continue to receive multiple-entry visas valid for 24 to 60 months.
– Existing Visas: Visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their original terms and validity.