The United States Embassy in Ghana has raised alarm over the escalating issue of visa fraud and deception involving unauthorized agents, revealing that less than half of all visa applications submitted in 2024 were approved.
According to Consul General Elliot Fertik, only 25,000 out of approximately 61,000 visa applications were granted this year, with a large number of rejections attributed to fraudulent submissions and misinformation spread by unlicensed middlemen.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Mr. Fertik warned against the growing influence of so-called “visa fixers” who promise guaranteed approvals in exchange for exorbitant fees, only to leave unsuspecting applicants defrauded and disqualified.
“We’ve always had a zero-tolerance policy towards lying and visa fraud,” he said. “These self-styled agents who claim to have inside access are misleading people. The visa process is straightforward and can be done by the applicant without any intermediary.”
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The Consul General noted that hundreds of Ghanaians lose up to $5,000 annually to fraudulent operators and often approach the Embassy too late for redress. In response, the U.S. Embassy is working in close partnership with Ghanaian law enforcement and international partners, including Canadian authorities, to crack down on such illegal operations.
He urged applicants to use official embassy channels and emphasized that honesty is the best path to securing a visa.
“We welcome all genuine applicants,” Fertik stated. “Follow our procedures, provide accurate information, and you will not have issues with us.”
The Embassy reiterated its commitment to upholding the integrity of the visa process and ensuring that only legitimate applicants gain entry into the United States.
