Visa Snub? Malawi Flags Growing U.S. Denials of Official Travel Requests

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The Government of Malawi has officially requested an explanation from the United States following a notably high number of visa denials for Malawian officials intending to travel to the U.S. for official duties.

A confidential letter dated April 23, 2025 — later leaked to the public on Friday — reveals that Malawi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs raised the issue directly with the U.S. Embassy in Lilongwe. The letter stressed Malawi’s compliance with established diplomatic protocols, referring to a diplomatic note from May 2, 2024, which outlines procedures for official travel.

While acknowledging the United States’ sovereign right to approve or deny visa applications, the Malawian government voiced concern over the increasing frequency of denials, despite officials reportedly fulfilling all the visa criteria.

“The Ministry would appreciate it if the esteemed Embassy could clarify the reasons for these rejections,” the letter stated. It also pointed out that although individual explanations have been given, the volume of denials has made it difficult for the Ministry to provide satisfactory justifications to affected officials whose sanctioned travel has been blocked.

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 As of now, the U.S. government has not publicly responded to Malawi’s request. The issue arises at a diplomatically sensitive moment, with unrestricted official travel being critical for fulfilling both bilateral and multilateral responsibilities.

Malawi’s inquiry also echoes broader concerns among African diplomats about inconsistent visa decisions for government officials. The U.S. response is expected to draw close attention in Malawi and across Southern Africa.