In a significant development for bilateral relations and travel facilitation, the United States government has officially restored the validity of tourist and business visas issued to Ghanaian citizens to five years. The announcement, made this week by U.S. Embassy officials in Accra, follows months of diplomatic engagement between both countries and marks a major shift from the previous one-year validity that had been in place.
According to the embassy, effective immediately, qualified applicants for B1/B2 visas — which cover short-term business and tourism travel — will now receive entry permits valid for up to five years, with multiple entry options. This adjustment, the U.S. government explained, is intended to strengthen people-to-people ties, encourage trade and tourism, and support the growing number of Ghanaians engaging in legitimate travel for education, conferences, business, and family visits.
The decision brings Ghana in line with the visa regimes already enjoyed by nationals of several other African countries, including Nigeria, which began issuing and receiving five-year U.S. visas under a reciprocal agreement. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration welcomed the move, describing it as a reflection of the mutual respect and longstanding partnership between Accra and Washington. Officials say this development is expected to ease the burden of frequent visa renewals on Ghanaian travellers and foster deeper cross-cultural and economic engagement between the two nations.
It would be recalled that in 2019, the United States imposed visa restrictions on Ghana in response to a dispute over the repatriation of Ghanaian nationals ordered to leave the U.S. That diplomatic standoff led to tighter immigration measures and heightened tensions between both governments. However, ties have steadily improved in recent years, culminating in this recent visa policy reversal, which many see as a sign of renewed cooperation.
The U.S. Embassy in Ghana has advised prospective applicants to continue observing all standard application procedures, including the scheduling of interviews and submission of required documentation. It also emphasized that visa approval remains subject to consular discretion, and that a longer validity does not guarantee automatic entry into the United States.
Ghana remains one of West Africa’s most active travel hubs, with a sizeable diaspora community in the U.S. and increasing numbers of students, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking opportunities abroad. Experts say the visa extension will not only reduce costs for frequent travellers but also streamline diplomatic and commercial exchanges, as the U.S. continues to deepen its presence in the region through initiatives in health, education, defence, and democratic governance.
As of press time, travel and immigration consultants in Lagos and Accra confirmed a surge in enquiries from clients seeking to take advantage of the new five-year validity rule. Stakeholders in the aviation and tourism sectors have also welcomed the move, expressing optimism that it will contribute to post-pandemic recovery and boost cross-border business activity in the subregion.
