Copyright gbcghanaonline
By Hannah Dadzie Ghanaians can now apply for five-year multiple entry visas to the United States, following the reversal of visa restrictions imposed earlier this year. The decision, which restores enhanced consular privileges, has been described by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa as a major diplomatic victory for Ghana. The announcement was formally conveyed to Mr Ablakwa, by U.S. Under 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 U.S. Embassy in Ghana has also confirmed the significant policy change via its official X (formerly Twitter) page. The Foreign Affairs Minister welcomed the development, calling it the successful outcome of sustained high-level diplomatic engagements, and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties with the United States. It will be recalled that in July, the U.S. imposed visa restrictions on Ghana and several other countries, limiting applicants to a maximum three-month single-entry visa. The Trump Administration at the time cited longstanding concerns about visa overstays, particularly among Ghanaian students. The restrictions drew widespread concern among travelers and diplomatic circles, prompting swift engagement between both governments. The reversal, secured during the UN General Assembly, is being hailed as a sign of “healthier and stronger Ghana–U.S. relations” and is expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation.
