Obtaining a U.S. visa can be difficult for many Africans, with some countries seeing exceptionally high rejection rates. Millions annually attempt to obtain U.S. visas for travel, study, business, or family visits, but are generally unsuccessful.
The economic and political stability of a country can influence one’s chances of obtaining a visa. U.S. consulates search for evidence that applicants have strong ties to their native country, such as stable employment or family. High rates of visa overstays might result in harsher screening for future applicants, and diplomatic relations can influence visa decisions.
This information comes from the US Department of State and The Henley Passport Index, which assesses each passport’s global access.
Here are the top ten African countries with the highest U.S. visa denial rates:
1. Liberia – 78.19% Rejection Rate (Access to 51 countries)
Liberia sees the highest U.S. visa rejection rate. Its passport, offering access to 51 countries, reflects global travel challenges that complicate the visa application process for Liberians.
2. Mauritania – 76.43% (Access to 58 countries)
Mauritania has a rejection rate of 76.43%, and its passport enables admission into 58 countries. Economic instability and restricted travel options contribute to this high rate.
3. Rwanda – 71.09% (Access to 65 countries)
Rwanda has a rejection rate of 71.09%, despite the fact that their passport allows travel to 65 countries. Despite the hurdles, Rwanda is attempting to enhance its international position, which may assist reduce future rejection rates.
4. Senegal – 70.47% (Access to 58 countries)
Senegalese passport holders can travel to 58 countries, with a refusal rate of 70.47%. This high rate impacts many people who want to travel to the United States for transitory reasons.
5. Somalia – 69.89% (Access to 35 countries)
Somalia has a 69.89 percent rejection rate. Security concerns and instability contribute to this high rate, yet the passport only allows access to 35 countries.
6. Djibouti – 68.37% (Access to 49 countries)
Djibouti’s rejection rate is 68.37%, and its passport allows travel to 49 countries. The difficulties in obtaining a U.S. visa frequently dissuade Djiboutians from applying.
7. Burundi – 66.29% (Access to 50 countries)
Burundi has a 66.29% rejection rate and passport access to 50 countries. Political and economic challenges have a significant impact on its people’ ability to get U.S. visas.
8. Guinea – 61.37% (Access to 59 countries)
Guinea, with a rejection rate of 61.37% and passport access to 59 countries, encounters administrative and geopolitical challenges when applying for visas.
9. Gambia – 60.40% (Access to 69 countries)
Gambia has a 60.40 percent rejection rate. While Gambians have passport access to 69 countries, global visa regulations complicate the procedure.
10. Mali – 60.16% (Access to 55 countries)
Mali has a 60.16 percent rejection rate. Economic concerns and international connections are some of the causes contributing to this high prevalence.