The United States government has implemented significant changes to its non-immigrant visa policy affecting Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. This adjustment primarily involves reducing the validity period and restricting entries for most travellers from these nations.
What are the changes?
According to the US Department of State, almost all non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of these four countries will now be single-entry and valid for only three months. This marks a considerable departure from previous visa terms, which often allowed for multiple entries over a more extended period, typically two years or more.
Why the change?
The US government describes this as part of a "global reciprocity realignment." The principle of reciprocity in international relations suggests that countries should offer similar visa terms to each other's citizens.
Ghana's Response
The Ghanaian government has responded to the changes, stating that it has issued over 28,500 multiple-entry visas to US citizens this year. They expressed hope for an "early resolution" to the issue and showed "firm solidarity" with Ghanaians inconvenienced by the new policy.
Nigeria's Perspective
Nigeria has refuted claims that it only offers single-entry e-visas for three months to US citizens. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga clarified that Nigeria continues to provide five-year multiple-entry visas to US nationals. He stated that the US government's claim of reciprocity as the reason for its current visa policy towards Nigeria does not accurately reflect the situation.
Concerns Expressed
The Nigerian government has expressed its concerns, describing the move as disproportionate and calling for reconsideration. They also noted that the restriction could negatively impact cultural and educational exchanges, which have historically formed a crucial part of US-Nigeria relations.
Looking Ahead
The US State Department has indicated that visa policies remain "subject to ongoing review" and may change in the future. This situation is developing, and further updates are expected as diplomatic discussions continue.