New U.S. Visa Rules Slash Duration, Limit Ghanaians to Single-Entry, 3-Month Visas

The United States government has revised its visa reciprocity policy for Ghana, drastically reducing the duration and frequency of entry permitted under most non-immigrant visa categories. Effective immediately, most Ghanaian applicants—including those seeking travel for business, tourism, and education—will now receive single-entry visas valid for just three months.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, this change affects a wide range of visa classifications, especially B-class visas, which cover short-term visits for business and tourism.

Key Changes Under the New Policy:

• B1/B2 (Business/Tourism): Now limited to single entry valid for 3 months, down from the previous multiple-entry visas of up to 5 years.
• F1 (Student Visa): Also reduced to single-entry, 3-month validity—a significant shift from earlier allowances that supported students’ full academic programs.
• K1/K2 (Fiancé(e) & Dependent): Remain single-entry, valid for 6 months.
• K3/K4 (Spouse & Dependent of U.S. Citizen): Remain multiple-entry, valid for 24 months.
• A-Class (Diplomatic & Government Officials): Remain unaffected, with multiple-entry visas valid for 24 to 60 months.

This sweeping change aligns with the U.S.’s global visa reciprocity framework, which adjusts visa terms to mirror those imposed on U.S. citizens by other countries. A similar visa tightening was recently introduced for Nigerian nationals.

Implications for Ghanaian Travellers

The new policy significantly alters the travel landscape for Ghanaians intending to visit or study in the United States. Individuals who previously relied on multi-year, multiple-entry visas must now reapply for a new visa for each trip—an adjustment that could substantially raise both travel costs and administrative burdens.

The U.S. government has not issued an official explanation for the decision. However, such revisions are often linked to bilateral diplomatic negotiations, national security evaluations, or immigration policy enforcement trends.

Observers note that unless Ghana adjusts its visa policy toward U.S. nationals or engages in diplomatic discussions, these changes may remain in place for the foreseeable future.