US visa restrictions: Don’t overstay your welcome – Ghana’s US Mission cautions citizens

Ghana’s Mission in the United States has cautioned citizens to strictly abide by U.S. immigration regulations and avoid overstaying their visas, warning that any abuse of the recently restored visa privileges could have negative consequences for the wider Ghanaian community.

Deputy Head of Mission, Jane Gasu Aheto, cautioned while addressing the 40th anniversary celebration of the GaDangme Association in Washington on behalf of Ghana’s Ambassador to the U.S., Victor Emmanuel Smith.

She announced that restrictions on U.S. visa issuance for Ghanaians had been eased, with eligible applicants now able to obtain up to five-year multiple-entry visas.

The policy shift comes after months of tighter rules that limited most Ghanaian travellers to single-entry visas valid for only three months.

While welcoming the development, Ms. Aheto urged Ghanaians not to misuse the renewed opportunity.

“After many deliberations, the restrictions on visa for Ghana has been restored and once again Ghanaians can be eligible for up to five years multiple entry visas. While this is very welcome news, it is imperative that we as a people do not abuse the privileges granted to us.

“We must ensure that we abide by the rules governing visas, responsibly, so we do not suffer adverse consequences,” she said.

The Embassy reaffirmed its readiness to support Ghanaians living in the U.S. but stressed that compliance with immigration rules remains essential to maintaining the restored visa arrangement.

“The Embassy stands in readiness to offer support and assistance to our fellow Ghanaian brothers and sisters who live and work here, in all their activities,” she added.

Among the dignitaries present at the 40th anniversary celebration were leaders of the Council of Ghanaian Associations (COGA), executives of the GaDangme Association, community elders, and invited guests from across the Ghanaian diaspora in the United States.

The event showcased the role of unity among Ghanaian groups abroad in preserving culture while supporting national development.

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