The United States Embassy in Ghana has cautioned Ghanaians against engaging in illegal visa processes and unauthorised immigration.
The Embassy made the caution, stressing that engaging in such actions could lead to visa refusals, revocations, or deportation.
At a Consular Media Day held on Friday, May 9, 2025, to demystify the U.S. visa process, the Embassy highlighted improvements in visitor experiences, clarifying visa its visa policy procedures.
The Embassy says it received 61,000 visa applications in 2024 and issued 25,000 visas to Ghanaian applicants.
Speaking at the event, Consular General Elliot Fertik reaffirmed the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and stress-free travel experience for Ghanaians.
“We continue to welcome visitors from Ghana who are interested in studying, investing, or doing business in the US. Last year, the US embassy issued 25,000 visas to Ghanaians for work, study, or visit to the US. But with entry to the US, visa applicants or holders must follow our laws,” he said.
He issued a strong warning, reemphasising the U.S. government’s strict stance on illegal immigration.
“The US has zero tolerance for illegal immigrants. Those who break the rules will face the law, including visa refusal, or upright ban from entering the US,” he stated.
“We want to make sure that Ghanaians understand the proper way for applying for visas and what is expected of them when applying for visas,” Fertik added.
The U.S. government, he noted further, is also putting in measures to improve its visa application process by prioritizing transparency and customer experience.
“Visitors to the US must ensure that they obey the laws and regulations. I am sure you have noticed some of the improvements we have made to improve customer experience. The Department of State’s top priority is ensuring the safety of US citizens overseas and extending help to those who need help away from home,” he stated.
He concluded by emphasizing the dual mission of the U.S. government: facilitating legal travel and protecting its borders.
“We also have the mandate of ensuring our borders are protected by protecting the US against illegal immigration by enforcing the laws,” he stated.
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