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Why Do Some African Countries Have Higher US Visa Overstay Rates? A Look Into the Data

  • bernard boateng
  • Jun 27
  • 2 min read

The US Department of Homeland Security’s 2023 Entry/Exit Overstay Report reveals startling disparities in visa overstay rates among African nations. While some countries maintain rates under 2%, others exceed 20% with Chad peaking at nearly 50%. But what drives these differences?

US Visa Overstay Rate for African Countries
US Visa Overstay Rate for African Countries

High Overstay Rates: Poverty and Conflict as Catalysts

Countries like Chad (49.54%), Congo-Brazzaville (29.63%), Sudan (26.3%), and Djibouti (23.9%) sit at the top of the overstay chart. These nations often grapple with internal instability, weak economic opportunities, and limited reintegration systems for returnees. For many, overstaying becomes a survival tactic rather than mere non-compliance.


The Low Overstay League: Stability Matters

In stark contrast, countries like Mauritius (0.91%), South Africa (1.0%), and Morocco (1.8%) exhibit stronger return rates. These countries benefit from stronger economies, diplomatic ties with the US, and more structured immigration oversight.


Implications for Migration Policy

These figures may influence future visa issuance policies, especially as the US seeks to balance openness with immigration enforcement. For African policymakers, the report underscores the importance of domestic development in shaping global mobility outcomes.


What the Data Doesn’t Say

It’s important to note that the report does not distinguish between visa categories (tourism, student, work). Overstay rates may be inflated in countries where migration for survival is more common than structured travel.


Africa's US visa overstay landscape is a mirror of its socio-political complexities. As governments on both sides of the Atlantic look to reform immigration, addressing the root causes of overstays: poverty, instability, and lack of opportunity should be part of the conversation.


Source: US Homeland Security Entry/Exit Overstay Report 2023Visual Analysis: Finex Skills Hub, June 2025



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