Africa-Press – Ghana. The United States Government has lifted visa restrictions imposed on Ghana, paving the way for Ghanaians to once again be eligible for five-year multiple entry visas and other consular privileges.
Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced the development in New York on Friday on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
It follows a bilateral meeting with Ms Allison Hooker, US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.
“I am really pleased that months of high-level diplomatic negotiations have led to this successful outcome,” Mr Ablakwa said.
He added that the decision reflected growing confidence and renewed cooperation between Accra and Washington.
It will be recalled that in July this year, the US imposed visa restrictions on Ghana and other countries, limiting applicants to a maximum of three-month single-entry visas.
In Ghana’s case, the measure was justified by Washington as a response to long-standing concerns about visa overstays, particularly involving students.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Accra has confirmed that the maximum validity periods for all categories of nonimmigrant visas for Ghanaians have been restored to their previous lengths.
The maximum validity allowed for the B1/B2 visitor visa is again five years, multiple entry, while the maximum validity for the F1 student visa is again four years, multiple entry.
The reversal of the restrictions is expected to ease travel arrangements for Ghanaians and deepen bilateral relations between the two nations.
“This is good news and a testament to healthier and stronger Ghana–USA relations,” Mr Ablakwa stated.
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