KEY POINTS
- The Foreign Affairs Ministry has urged all embassies to enhance visa procedures.
- Complaints include long wait times, poor facilities, and inaccessible online applications.
- Lawmakers are calling for stronger diplomatic action to ensure fair treatment.
The Ghanaian government has taken a firm stand against the mistreatment of its citizens at foreign embassies and visa centers.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent a Note Verbale to all embassies and high commissions, urging them to improve conditions at their diplomatic missions.
This move follows widespread public complaints about poor treatment when applying for visas, including long waiting times, lack of adequate seating, difficulties accessing online applications, and even the absence of emergency services at some centers.
The ministry’s directive makes it clear that foreign missions must uphold humane conditions for all applicants.
Monitoring compliance and ensuring fair treatment
In a statement issued on February 25, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it would actively monitor compliance with the new directive.
While embassies and high commissions retain the right to determine visa issuance, the Ghanaian government expects them to respond positively and make necessary improvements.
The ministry promised public support for fair visa applicant treatment while announcing additional measures for embassies who do not follow the directive.
The new initiative supports a wider plan to protect Ghanaians from visa application difficulties as they travel for business or education.
Parliament weighs in on visa challenges
Lawmakers show increasing interest in this subject, as s several Members of Parliament (MPs) present their personal experiences and their constituents’ raised concerns.
According to Graphic Online, certain Members of Parliament demand enhanced diplomatic engagements with foreign governments to address these ongoing issues.
Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh emphasized the importance of ensuring embassies respect the rights of Ghanaian applicants. He urged the government to stay alert while taking effective actions if required.
Many Ghanaians remain positive about better embassy visa processing, as the government continues to advocate for improved conditions.
