The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed that Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, remained in the United States beyond the expiry of his visa, placing him in violation of US immigration laws.
The confirmation was given after TV3 journalist Joseph Ackah-Blay made enquiries to US immigration authorities regarding Mr. Ofori-Atta’s status.
According to ICE, Mr. Ofori-Atta entered the United States on May 28, 2025, using a visitor visa that was valid until November 27, 2025.
However, officials say he failed to leave the country after the visa expired, making his stay unlawful under US immigration regulations.
ICE explained that individuals who remain in the country beyond their authorised period are classified as being in the US illegally and may be subject to removal proceedings. As a result, Mr. Ofori-Atta has been served with a Notice to Appear before an immigration judge and is currently in ICE custody as the process continues.
The agency stressed that US immigration laws apply equally to all foreign nationals and that visa overstays can lead to detention and deportation.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ofori-Atta is also facing corruption and procurement-related charges in Ghana, with the government formally seeking his extradition. ICE has indicated that his immigration case will first be handled through the US legal system before any extradition request is considered.