The Dutch Ambassador to Ghana has responded to the recent communiqué issued by Ghana’s Foreign Ministry regarding the treatment of visa applicants at foreign missions. Ambassador Jeroen Verheul expressed his willingness to improve service delivery but highlighted the challenges posed by the vague nature of the complaints outlined in the Ministry’s directive.
The Foreign Ministry’s communiqué called for embassies and high commissions in Ghana to provide humane conditions for visa applicants, following numerous public complaints about the lack of conducive waiting areas, long waiting times for appointment dates, and challenges with visa application websites. While embassies retain the right to decide who they issue visas to, the Ministry emphasized the importance of compliance with the directives outlined in the Note Verbale.
During an appearance on PM Express, Ambassador Verheul acknowledged the need for improvement but raised concerns about the generic nature of the complaints. He noted that while suggestions for improvement are welcomed, the broad scope of the communiqué makes it difficult for embassies to address the issues effectively. Despite receiving few complaints directly from visa applicants, the Dutch envoy recognized the importance of enhancing the visa application process.
Ghana has faced challenges with high Schengen visa rejection rates, with a significant number of applicants being rejected in recent years. The country ranks fifth among African nations with rejection rates, behind Algeria, Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. The demand for travel abroad has increased among Ghanaians, driven by economic prospects, leading to the proliferation of visa application centres and travel agencies. However, some of these entities have been accused of prioritizing profit over service quality, with reports of exploitation of unsuspecting applicants.
The growing interest in migration has highlighted the need for dialogue between Ghanaian authorities and foreign missions to reform and improve the visa application process. As both parties work towards enhancing service delivery and addressing the concerns raised by visa applicants, it is essential to prioritize transparency, efficiency, and fairness in the visa application process.
Overall, the pursuit of improving the visa application process in Ghana requires collaboration, communication, and a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by visa applicants. By working together, both Ghanaian authorities and foreign missions can contribute to a more seamless and efficient visa application experience for all stakeholders involved.
