James Gyakye Quayson
The Deputy Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, has expressed concern over the high cost of visa applications for young Ghanaians, describing it as an unfair practice by some developed countries.
During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, July 25, 2025, Quayson noted that applicants are often required to pay up to $160, an amount he considers excessive given the economic challenges facing many African countries.
According to Quayson, despite paying such high fees, an estimated 90 to 95 percent of applicants are denied visas.
He argued that this practice has effectively become a means for some foreign embassies to generate revenue, relying heavily on income from visa applications rather than funding from their home governments.
“Most of these so-called advanced countries are milking our youth through visa application fees to support their embassies,” Mr. Quayson stated. He explained that these embassies rely heavily on income from visa applications, and not just on funding from their home governments.
The nominee called for a review of policies regarding visa applications, stressing that Ghana’s foreign policy must prioritize the welfare of its citizens.
He assured the Committee that if confirmed, he will work closely with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to push for changes that will benefit young Ghanaians and prevent them from being unfairly charged for visas they may not receive.