By Archie Boan
Liberia’s Chair of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Representative Nehker E. Gaye of Nimba County District #3, has described the United States Government’s decision to extend non-immigrant visa validity for Liberians as “a remarkable milestone” and “a diplomatic breakthrough that cements a new era of reciprocity and respect.”
Speaking in reaction to the announcement from the U.S. Department of State, Rep. Gaye hailed the move as “a friendly gesture” that underscores the growing strength of Liberia–U.S. relations under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration.
“Since the inception of this government, we have been working through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Legislature to ensure reciprocity in our visa relations,” Gaye said. “Liberia has been issuing multiple-entry visas to Americans, so it is fair that our citizens now enjoy similar privileges.
This is a significant milestone and remarkable progress.”
According to Rep. Gaye, the extended validity now up to 36 months for B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), and combined B1/B2 visas represents more than convenience; it is a symbol of mutual respect between the two nations.
He explained that the change follows years of diplomatic engagement to address Liberian complaints about high visa denial rates and shorter validity periods, noting that “in all diplomacy, reciprocity is very important.”
The visa extension means Liberians can now make multiple trips to the United States within three years without reapplying, reducing financial strain and paperwork.
“With a three-year visa in your passport, you can enter America as many times as your financial strength allows,” Gaye explained. “It gives our businesspeople and professionals flexibility to pursue opportunities abroad and return home to contribute to national development.”
He, however, urged citizens to respect immigration laws and avoid overstaying their visas. “You cannot go to another country and just stay forever,” he cautioned. “Every country has immigration laws when your visa expires, you must come back and reapply.”
Responding to critics who say the visa policy does little to ease domestic hardships, Gaye said progress in foreign policy should be measured differently.
“Some people may not see this as progress because it’s not about prices or jobs,” he said.
“But those who understand international relations know that this decision eases long-standing burdens for many Liberians and reflects respect for our country.”
Rep. Gaye credited Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti for her role in strengthening Liberia’s image abroad, calling the visa announcement part of a broader diplomatic rebranding.
“This move shows that our government’s foreign-policy direction is working,” he added. “It deepens the bonds between Liberia and the United States and demonstrates our seriousness about international engagement.”
The U.S. State Department’s new reciprocity schedule for Liberia, released on October 29, 2025, confirms that visa categories such as B-1, B-2, and B1/B2 will now carry a validity of up to three years with multiple entries.
While the decision marks a diplomatic high point, Gaye emphasized that its success depends on responsible use by Liberians.
“This is a privilege and an opportunity,” he said. “If we respect the terms, it will strengthen our case for even greater cooperation in the future.”
