By: Hannah Dadzie and Michael Dewornu
Ghana may soon face a visa ban from the United States following rising concerns over immigration compliance, especially the number of Ghanaians overstaying their visas.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has been addressing the issue, confirming Ghana’s likely inclusion on a US travel restriction list.
The United States government is taking a firm stance on visa overstays and Ghana is now at the center of the latest immigration crackdown. According to a report by the Washington Post, the Trump administration has listed Ghana among 36 countries likely to face visa restrictions.
The United States has formally communicated to Ghana and has stated that reasons for Ghana’s possible inclusion in a visa ban. Among the reasons stated is the high rate of visa overstays especially Ghanaian students.
Addressing a news conference in Accra, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said 21 percent of Ghanaian students who study in the US end up overstaying their visas after completing their courses.
“The students who we have been sending abroad both those on government scholarships and self-sponsored; are the focus. U.S. data shows that 21 per cent of Ghanaian students who have completed their courses in the U.S. have refused to return,” he said.
According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, the U.S. criteria for visa bans cover a wide range of issues, including countries linked to terrorism, those harbouring violent extremists, and nations failing to cooperate with deportation efforts.
The data shared by US authorities also indicates that aside from the high default rate among students, 7 percent of Ghanaians on tourist visas have also overstayed their permitted stay. Mr. Ablakwa mentioned that the Ministry acknowledge the gravity of the situation and are engaging the US to address these concerns.
The Minister added Already, 56 out of 188 Ghanaians on a deportation list have been repatriated and reintegrated.
“We have so far been formally notified of 188 Ghanaians on President Trump’s deportation list. Our embassies in New York and Washington are cooperating with U.S. counterparts, and travel certificates are being promptly issued” Mr Ablakwa said.
He said Ghana would receive all deportees with dignity, adding that a comprehensive reintegration programme has been activated in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and the Ghana Immigration Service.
“We will be at the airport to welcome our compatriots and ensure they are properly integrated” Mr Ablakwa noted.
Despite the looming restrictions, Ghana’s Foreign Minister insists the diplomatic relationship between Ghana and the United States remains intact, and discussions are ongoing to seek a resolution.
