-In a Major Diplomatic Win for Boakai Administration
MONROVIA, Liberia – The United States has extended the validity of key nonimmigrant visas for Liberian citizens from one year to three years, a decision hailed by President Joseph Boakai as a milestone for Liberia’s global standing.
The U.S. Department of State announced the immediate policy shift, which applies to B1 (Business), B2 (Tourism), and B1/B2 combination visas. Qualified Liberian applicants will now receive multiple-entry visas valid for 36 months, tripling the previous duration without an additional reciprocity fee.
President Boakai welcomed the move, stating it “reflects growing confidence in Liberia’s progress and global engagement.” In an official statement from the Executive Mansion, he characterized the decision as “a clear demonstration of the strong and enduring partnership between Liberia and the United States, grounded in mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a common vision for progress.”
The extended visa validity is expected to have substantial practical benefits. It will ease the financial and administrative burden on frequent travelers, facilitate stronger business and investment links, and deepen people-to-people connections between the two nations.
“This gesture opens new doors for our citizens to explore educational, cultural, and economic opportunities while strengthening our bilateral cooperation with the United States,” President Boakai said, highlighting his administration’s commitment to advancing Liberia’s international relations.
The decision is seen as a direct result of the Boakai administration’s diplomatic outreach. Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti affirmed the government’s intent to build on this success, stating she would “continue to engage the U.S. Government and other governments to further expand areas of mutual cooperation and benefits for Liberian citizens abroad.”
The U.S. reciprocity adjustment marks a tangible upgrade in the diplomatic relationship, signaling strengthened trust and offering Liberian entrepreneurs, tourists, and families a more stable framework for engagement with the United States.
