Ghana Faces Possible U.S. Visa Ban Over High Student Overstay Rate – Ablakwa Confirms
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that Ghana is at risk of being affected by a U.S. visa ban due to a high rate of student overstays.
This follows a recent report by The Washington Post which indicated that the United States, under the Trump administration, is considering placing visa restrictions on Ghana and 35 other countries.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, June 26, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa disclosed that engagements with U.S. authorities have indeed revealed Ghana’s potential inclusion on the visa ban list. The primary concern, he explained, is the number of Ghanaian students who overstay their permitted duration in the U.S.
According to data shared with the Ministry by U.S. officials, 21% of Ghanaian students fail to return after completing their studies—far exceeding the U.S.’s acceptable threshold of 15%.
“The US officials have communicated to us that the challenge we face really relates to overstays, particularly with students,” the Minister said. “They have formally communicated to us that 21% is the default rate. 21% of those who completed their course refuse to return according to US data.”
He clarified that while countries with an overstay rate below 15% would not be penalized, Ghana’s 21% default rate breaches the acceptable limit.
Despite the concerning figures, Mr. Ablakwa assured the public that talks with the U.S. are ongoing and progressing constructively.
“The engagements are going well because US authorities have confirmed to us that apart from overstays, other matters such as terrorism, harboring criminals, and refusal to accept deportees do not apply to Ghana,” he emphasized.
The Ministry continues to work closely with U.S. counterparts to address the situation and explore possible exemptions or mitigation strategies.
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