Top 10 African Countries with Most US Visa Rejections

Getting a U.S. visa can be tough for many Africans, with some countries facing particularly high rejection rates. Every year, millions try to get U.S. visas for travel, study, business, or family visits, but often without success.

The chances of getting a visa can be influenced by a country’s economic situation and political stability. U.S. consulates look for signs that applicants have strong ties to their home country, like steady jobs or family. High rates of visa overstays can lead to stricter checks for future applicants, and diplomatic relations can also affect visa decisions.

This data comes from the U.S. Department of State and The Henley Passport Index, which measures the global access each passport offers.

Here are the top 10 African countries with the highest U.S. visa rejections: 

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 76.43% rejection rate, and its passport allows entry to 58 countries. Economic instability and limited travel options play a role in this high rate.

3. Rwanda – 71.09% (Access to 65 countries)

Rwanda faces a 71.09% rejection rate, though its passport grants access to 65 countries. Despite challenges, Rwanda is working to improve its international standing, which might help lower future rejection rates.

4. Senegal – 70.47% (Access to 58 countries)

With a 70.47% rejection rate, Senegal’s passport holders can visit 58 countries. This high rate affects many looking to travel to the U.S. for temporary reasons.

5. Somalia – 69.89% (Access to 35 countries)

Somalia has a 69.89% rejection rate. Security issues and instability contribute to this high rate, while the passport provides limited access to 35 countries.

6. Djibouti – 68.37% (Access to 49 countries)

 Djibouti’s rejection rate is 68.37%, and its passport opens doors to 49 countries. The challenges in securing a U.S. visa often discourage Djiboutians from applying.

7. Burundi – 66.29% (Access to 50 countries)

Burundi shows a 66.29% rejection rate, with passport access to 50 countries. Political and economic difficulties greatly impact the ability of its citizens to obtain U.S. visas.

8. Guinea – 61.37% (Access to 59 countries)

Guinea, with a 61.37% rejection rate and passport access to 59 countries, faces administrative and geopolitical hurdles that affect visa applications.

9. Gambia – 60.40% (Access to 69 countries)

Gambia experiences a 60.40% rejection rate. While it has passport access to 69 countries, global visa policies complicate the process for Gambians.

10. Mali – 60.16% (Access to 55 countries)

Mali has a 60.16% rejection rate. Economic issues and international relations are among the factors contributing to this high rate.