Ghana has welcomed the United States’ reversal of recent visa restrictions, a move described as a diplomatic success after months of negotiations. The US Embassy confirmed the decision, restoring maximum validity periods for all categories of non-immigrant visas.

The policy change followed an announcement by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. While many see this as a win for bilateral relations, the development has sparked debate at home.

International relations expert Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua praised the U-turn but criticized Ghana’s decision to accept deported West African nationals, suggesting it may have influenced Washington’s reversal.

Minister Ablakwa, however, rejected claims that Ghana is becoming a “dumping ground,” stressing that only a limited number of pre-vetted West African nationals without criminal records would be admitted, in line with ECOWAS protocols.