U.S. Visa: 61,000 applied in Ghana, only 25,000 approved in 2024

The United States Embassy in Ghana has shared important visa application statistics. In 2024, only 25,000 out of 61,000 applications were approved. This raises concerns about fraud and middlemen posing as facilitators.

Embassy officials blame many issues on “fixers.” These individuals deceive applicants with false promises of guaranteed visas. They often ask for large sums of money in return.

At a press conference in Accra, Elliot Fertik spoke about the problem. He is the Consul General of the U.S. Embassy. He warned against using unauthorized intermediaries and emphasized the Embassy’s commitment to fighting visa fraud.

Fertik stated, “We’ve always had a zero-tolerance policy towards lying and visa fraud.” He noted that this policy will be strictly enforced under the Trump administration.

He cautioned against relying on self-styled agents claiming insider access. Such claims are risky and unfounded.

“There are people who say, ‘If you pay me money, I can get you a visa.’ That is not true,” he said.

“The visa application process can be done by anyone on their own,” he added. Paying someone extra for an inside track is simply a lie; they just want your money.

Fertik revealed that hundreds of applicants contact the Embassy each year after losing up to $5,000 to fraudsters who fail to deliver.

“We often work with Canadian law enforcement to track down these fraudsters,” he mentioned.

To address this issue, the Embassy is partnering with Ghanaian security agencies. They aim to identify and prosecute those involved in visa scams.

Fertik urged applicants to use official channels and be honest throughout the process.

“If you are interested in applying for a visa, we welcome your application,” he said.

“We appreciate your interest in traveling to the United States,” he concluded. “But please do it the right way: follow our rules and tell the truth.”