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Tag: US Embassy

  • More than 1k B1/B2 visa interviews available for non-immigrants next week – U.S. Embassy announces

    More than 1k B1/B2 visa interviews available for non-immigrants next week – U.S. Embassy announces

    The U.S. Embassy, Accra has disclosed that over 1,000 appointment slots for non-immigrant visas are now open with immediate effect.

    Officials stated that many B1/B2 visa interview slots, which cover business and tourist travel, are currently accessible and urged applicants to make use of the opportunity.

    The availability is expected to allow travellers to secure interview dates within the coming week.

    In a notice posted on Facebook on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the embassy encouraged individuals intending to apply for visas to the United States to schedule their interviews promptly.

    “There are more than 1,000 B1/B2 visa appointment slots available in the next week – one of those could be yours,” the notice said.

    The decision is part of wider preparations by the United States to support increased travel ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Mexico and Canada.

    Individuals who already have interview dates scheduled later in the year have also been encouraged to reschedule for earlier slots where possible.

    “Book a new appointment – or move up one scheduled for later in the year – we want to interview you now!” the Embassy added.

    Prospective applicants have been directed to visit the embassy’s official visa portal for further details on eligibility requirements and application procedures.

    The announcement is expected to reduce anxiety among travellers who have faced extended waiting periods for interview appointments in recent months.

    The Embassy reported a significant surge in the number of Ghanaians applying for visas to the US, which exceeded the increased resources allocated for faster processing.

    Despite acknowledging that increased travel between the two countries will strengthen people-to-people ties, the US mission is facing challenges due to the tripling of visa applications since 2019, resulting in a growing backlog.

    These comments came at a time when the US Embassy was preparing to transition all visa applications to a new system, which commenced on August 16 2024.

    During a roundtable discussion at the US Embassy in Accra, American Consul General Elliot Fertik highlighted that the high demand was flattering for the US, as it suggested a strong interest among Ghanaians in visiting the United States temporarily.

    “I’ve said before that if you look at the number of people who paid the visa application fee in 2019 before the pandemic and compare it to the number of people who did so in 2023, the number in 2023 is triple what it was in 2019. So certainly, we hope this new system will provide some additional enhancements and will be more efficient” Mr Fertik noted.

    He added “We’re seeing it’s not just non-immigrant visas on the immigrant visa side. Diversity visa. Again, the numbers are through the roof. And, you know, we want to encourage as much legitimate travel between the United States and Ghana as we can. It is incredibly important to us. We want to encourage qualified students to study in the United States. And that’s why, as I said, that’s why we’ve had to bring more resources to doing interviews. Unfortunately, the demand is outstripping even the increased resources we’ve had and we’re going to continue increasing our resources”.

    The U.S. Embassy, Accra transitioned to a new visa services provider on August 26, 2024, causing the previous provider’s website and services to become unavailable after August 16, 2024.

    From August 16 to August 26, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Accra’s visa services provider was inaccessible as the transition to a new provider took effect. During that period, applicants could not schedule, cancel, or modify visa appointments, but existing non-immigrant visa appointments were still honoured.

    Ghana Scholarships Secretariat (GSS) announced interviews for 2025/2026 Commonwealth Applicants also took place on Monday, 8 December 2025 as well as Tuesday, 9 December 2025.

    According to a letter signed by the registrar of scholarships, Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, the interview starts at 9:30 a.m. at the Conference Room of the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat.

    “The Ghana Scholarship’s Secretariat (GSS) wishes to inform all applicants of the review of applications for the Commonwealth Scholarship tenable in the United Kingdom for 2025/2026 Academic year and is in the process of inviting applicants to attend an interview which will be a crucial step in assessing the suitability of applicants for the scholarship. The interview is scheduled for Monday 8th & Tuesday 9th December, 2025 at 9.30 a.m. at the Conference Room of the Secretariat,” the letter read.

    The letter also urged applicants who applied online but failed to submit hard copies of their applications to the secretariat to come along with the documents and other relevant academic certificates as indicated in “our earlier advertisement in the national daily (Ghanaian Times).”

    It added that all services offered by the Secretariat are free, urging applicants to beware of fraudsters.

    The U.S. Embassy encourages all applicants to take necessary actions before the transition to avoid any disruptions in their visa application process.

  • Follow the rules, US visa is a privilege and not a right – Embassy to Ghanaians

    Follow the rules, US visa is a privilege and not a right – Embassy to Ghanaians

    The United States Embassy in Ghana has cautioned Ghanaians against breaching US laws, as it could have repercussions on one’s visa status.

    In a post on its social media page, the embassy noted that once “you are arrested or violate any laws, your visa may be revoked, you may be deported, and you could be ineligible for future U.S. visas.”

    It therefore advised that “follow the rules and don’t jeopardize your travel,” adding that “a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right.”

    https://www.facebook.com/USEmbassyGhana/posts/1132428385587990?ref=embed_post

    Recently, the US embassy expressed deep concern over a surge in fraudulent visa applications, revealing that approximately 60% of the 61,000 submissions received in 2024 were denied-largely due to fraud.

    According to the Embassy, only 25,000 applications were approved this year, a figure officials say reflects the increasing involvement of middlemen and fraudulent agents posing as facilitators to unsuspecting Ghanaians desperate to travel abroad.

    Speaking at a press conference in Accra, the Consul General of the U.S. Embassy, Elliot Fertik, attributed the sharp rate of denials to widespread deception by self-styled “fixers” who prey on applicants with false assurances of guaranteed visas often charging thousands of dollars.

    “There are often a lot of people who say, “If you pay me money, I can get you a visa.” That is not true,” Mr. Fertik stressed.

    “The visa application process can be done by anyone, on their own.

    Paying extra money to someone who claims to have an inside track is a lie; they are simply taking your money.” He disclosed that hundreds of victims report to the Embassy annually after being defrauded of up to $5,000 by these fraudulent agents, who eventually fail to deliver any results.

    In response to the growing trend, the Embassy is intensifying efforts in collaboration with Ghanaian security agencies to track and prosecute individuals involved in visa-related scams.

    Mr. Fertik also mentioned joint efforts with Canadian law enforcement to dismantle cross-border visa fraud networks.

    The Embassy has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards dishonesty in visa applications.

    Mr. Fertik noted that this stance remains unchanged and will be rigorously enforced under the current U.S. administration.

    Per reports, the number of Ghanaians who applied for visa applications between 2019 and 2023 had tripled.

    In 2023, the US Embassy revealed that Ghana ranked 14th with regards to the country with the most students traveling to the US for studies.

    A total of 10,000 visa applications were turned in by students and sportsmen from Ghana.

    Unapproved visa extension

    A report from the US government revealed that Ghana’s visa compliance has worsened.

    About 1,910 individuals out of a total of 25,454 who were issued B1/B2 visas overstayed.

    537 out of 2,559 student and exchange visitor visa holders remained in the US unlawfully.

  • We welcome visitors wishing to study, invest – US Embassy to Ghanaians amid possible travel ban

    We welcome visitors wishing to study, invest – US Embassy to Ghanaians amid possible travel ban

    The United States Embassy in Accra has assured Ghanaians that their doors remain open to them despite reports of a possible travel restriction on Ghanaians by the Trump administration.

    In a statement shared on their official X (Twitter) page yesterday, June 17, the embassy stated that “We remain committed to welcoming visitors from Ghana who wish to study, invest, or engage in business activities in the United States.”

    The statement comes in response to a Reuters report revealing that President Donald Trump’s administration is reviewing an internal State Department cable recommending expanded travel bans.

    While the U.S. government has not officially confirmed the countries under consideration, the leak has sparked concern and speculation in affected regions, with many Ghanaians expressing concerns over the impact of the ban.

    But the U.S. Embassy’s message was clear, indicating that legitimate travellers from Ghana have nothing to fear. The statement clarified that Washington is tightening enforcement rather than closing its doors entirely.

    “It is essential for all applicants to comply with U.S. laws. Any attempts to enter the United States illegally, falsify information for a visa, work without proper authorisation, or overstay a visa will incur significant penalties,” the Embassy clarified.

    The Embassy concluded with a stern warning to the public about fraudsters posing as middlemen and falsely promising to secure visas. They encouraged all applicants to visit their official website to make applications at no cost.

    “We wish to emphasise that you do not need the services of a fixer or visa consultant to apply for a    U.S. visa! This can be done directly through our official website at no extra cost. It is important to note that no fixer or consultant can guarantee a visa. Any such promises are deceptive and intended to defraud you!”

    This is due to the long-standing and rising number of fraudulent middlemen who falsely claim they can secure U.S. visas for applicants for a fee.

    News of the travel ban on the African-dominated countries list emerged after a leaked memo from The Washington Post. The countries set to be affected include Ghana, Angola; Antigua and Barbuda; Benin; Bhutan; Burkina Faso; Cabo Verde; Cambodia; Cameroon; Democratic Republic of Congo; Djibouti; Dominica; Ethiopia; Egypt; Gabon; Gambia.

    The others are Ivory Coast; Kyrgyzstan; Liberia; Malawi; Mauritania; Niger; Nigeria; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; South Sudan; Syria; Tanzania; Tonga; Tuvalu; Uganda; Vanuatu; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.

    The report revealed that the US State Department has new benchmarks and requirements that it would want the governments of these countries to meet within 60 days.

    The memo is said to have indicated that some of these countries have “no competent or cooperative central government authority to produce reliable identity documents or other civil documents,” as well as were engaged in “widespread government fraud.”

    The memo also bemoaned the number of foreign citizens who had overstayed their visas.

    The 36 other countries that risk a travel ban by the USA government wouldn’t be the first to suffer such a fate, as some countries, including Haiti, Libya, Somalia, and six other Islamic-dominated countries, have already been banned from entry into the US. The ban was effected on Monday, June 9.

    The entry of people from seven other countries – Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela – have been partially restricted.This follows a directive issued on Wednesday, June 5, by U.S. President Donald Trump banning citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States, citing it as a move to protect his country from “foreign terrorists.”

    The proclamation includes exceptions for lawful permanent residents, existing visa holders, certain visa categories, and individuals whose entry serves US national interests.

  • About 60% of US visa applications by 61,000 Ghanaians denied due to fraud – Embassy 

    About 60% of US visa applications by 61,000 Ghanaians denied due to fraud – Embassy 

    The United States Embassy in Ghana has expressed deep concern over a surge in fraudulent visa applications, revealing that approximately 60% of the 61,000 submissions received in 2024 were denied-largely due to fraud.

    According to the Embassy, only 25,000 applications were approved this year, a figure officials say reflects the increasing involvement of middlemen and fraudulent agents posing as facilitators to unsuspecting Ghanaians desperate to travel abroad.

    Speaking at a press conference in Accra, the Consul General of the U.S. Embassy, Elliot Fertik, attributed the sharp rate of denials to widespread deception by self-styled “fixers” who prey on applicants with false assurances of guaranteed visas often charging thousands of dollars.

    “There are often a lot of people who say, “If you pay me money, I can get you a visa.” That is not true,” Mr. Fertik stressed.

    “The visa application process can be done by anyone, on their own.

    Paying extra money to someone who claims to have an inside track is a lie; they are simply taking your money.” He disclosed that hundreds of victims report to the Embassy annually after being defrauded of up to $5,000 by these fraudulent agents, who eventually fail to deliver any results.

    In response to the growing trend, the Embassy is intensifying efforts in collaboration with Ghanaian security agencies to track and prosecute individuals involved in visa-related scams.

    Mr. Fertik also mentioned joint efforts with Canadian law enforcement to dismantle cross-border visa fraud networks.

    The Embassy has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards dishonesty in visa applications.

    Mr. Fertik noted that this stance remains unchanged and will be rigorously enforced under the current U.S. administration.

    Per reports, the number of Ghanaians who applied for visa applications between 2019 and 2023 had tripled.

    In 2023, the US Embassy revealed that Ghana ranked 14th with regards to the country with the most students traveling to the US for studies.

    A total of 10,000 visa applications were turned in by students and sportsmen from Ghana.

    Unapproved visa extension

    A report from the US government revealed that Ghana’s visa compliance has worsened.

    About 1,910 individuals out of a total of 25,454 who were issued B1/B2 visas overstayed.

    537 out of 2,559 student and exchange visitor visa holders remained in the US unlawfully.

  • US Embassy, Ghana Navy hand over 3-unit classroom block to basic school in Sogakope

    US Embassy, Ghana Navy hand over 3-unit classroom block to basic school in Sogakope

    The United States Embassy, in collaboration with the Ghana Navy, has officially handed over a 3-unit classroom block to the Galotse District Assembly Basic School in Sogakope.

    The event, which took place on Wednesday, January 22, marks a significant step in strengthening the partnership between Ghana and the United States, focusing on community development.

    This project, the second of its kind in the Sogakope District, was completed by the US Navy Seabees, a division of the US Navy Construction Battalion, further emphasizing their ongoing commitment to supporting local development initiatives.

    The Deputy Head of Mission at the United States Embassy in Ghana, Mr. Rolf Olson, visited the Flag Officer Commanding the Naval Training Command, Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi, ahead of the handover. During their meeting, Commodore Asiedu-Larbi expressed his appreciation for the long-standing relationship between the Ghana Navy and the US Navy Seabees, which began in the late 1990s. He noted the successful collaboration on previous projects, including the construction of sickbays at the Western and Eastern Naval Commands.

    Mr. Olson reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to assisting community development initiatives in Ghana, highlighting the importance of such collaborations in fostering long-term growth.

    Mrs. Celestine Kosi Agodo, the District Director of Education, expressed her gratitude for the joint effort, praising the work of the US Navy, the Ghana Navy, traditional leaders, and the teaching staff. She emphasized the importance of cooperation in providing quality education for the students.

  • Ghana’s successful election reflects the will of the Ghanaian people – US Embassy

    Ghana’s successful election reflects the will of the Ghanaian people – US Embassy

    The United States Embassy in Accra has congratulated Ghanaians for holding another successful election, highlighting that the results reflect the will of the Ghanaian people.

    In a post on X on Sunday, the US Embassy commended the election’s smooth conduct, stating, “Congratulations to all Ghanaians on a successful election that reflects the will of the Ghanaian people. The United States looks forward to continuing our strong partnership under @JDMahama.”

    The Embassy also praised all the candidates who participated in the election for their commitment to peaceful elections and the transfer of power. “We commend all of the candidates that stood for election this cycle and their commitment to peaceful elections and the transfer of power as so eloquently expressed in Vice President @MBawumia’s concession speech. We stand with the people of Ghana and their belief in the power of the people and that #DemocracyDelivers. #USAmbPalmer.”

    https://twitter.com/USEmbassyGhana/status/1865726837936037970

    In related news, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has conceded defeat in the 2024 presidential elections, recognizing John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as Ghana’s next president.

    Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, revealed that he had personally called Mahama to congratulate him on his victory.

    “Ladies and gentlemen of the media, following yesterday’s presidential and parliamentary elections, Ghanaians at home and abroad have been sitting on tenterhooks awaiting the outcome of the elections. Let me say that the data from our own internal collation of the election results indicates that former president H.E. John Dramani Mahama has won the presidential election decisively,” Dr. Bawumia said.

    “The NDC has also won the parliamentary election even though we await final collation for a number of seats; however, I believe ultimately that this will not change the overall outcome. I have just called H.E. John Dramani Mahama to congratulate him as the president-elect of the Republic of Ghana,” he added.

    Dr. Bawumia expressed optimism that the party’s internal results would align with the final tally from the Electoral Commission (EC) and called for calm among NPP supporters. “I will respect the decision of Ghanaians and stop the growing tension,” he concluded.

  • U.S. Embassy to switch to a new visa services provider website starting August 26

    U.S. Embassy to switch to a new visa services provider website starting August 26

    The U.S. Embassy in Accra has revealed plans to switch to a new visa services provider starting August 26, 2024.

    As a result, the current visa service provider’s website and services will be discontinued on August 16, 2024.

    This transition means that from August 16 to August 26, applicants will be unable to schedule new visa appointments, cancel or reschedule current appointments, or access customer service.

    However, all existing nonimmigrant visa interview appointments will remain valid during this time.

    Key Details for Visa Applicants:

    Interviews on or Before August 16:

    No further action is required.
    Continue to access your account at ustraveldocs.com to review appointment details and contact customer service as needed.
    Interviews Between August 16 and August 26:

    No further action is required, but you will lose access to your ustraveldocs.com account after August 16.
    Print your appointment confirmation letter before August 16.
    Attend your scheduled visa interview as rescheduling or cancellation will not be possible during this period.
    If you miss your interview, check the website after August 26 for rescheduling instructions.
    Interviews on or After August 26:

    No further action is required, but access to your ustraveldocs.com account will end on August 16.
    Print your appointment confirmation letter before August 16.
    Beginning August 26, visit the new visa services website to create a new user account for managing appointments and accessing customer service.


    For Applicants Who Have Paid the Visa Application Fee:

    Schedule a visa appointment as soon as possible and follow the guidance based on your interview date.
    For Those Planning to Travel to the U.S. in August or September:

    Pay the visa application fee and schedule your appointment promptly. Note that appointment slots are limited during these months.
    For Those Planning to Travel After September:

    Consider waiting until after August 26 to begin the visa application process.
    Important Dates to Remember:

    August 16: Last day to access ustraveldocs.com for fee payments, appointment scheduling, and customer service.
    August 21: Last day to drop off documents at Premium Delivery locations.
    August 23: Last day to drop off documents at Ghana locations for Embassy delivery.
    August 26: New visa appointment website goes live with updated services.
    The U.S. Embassy encourages all applicants to take necessary actions before the transition to avoid any disruptions in their visa application process.

  • Lebanese troops open fire on assailant firing at US embassy

    Lebanese troops open fire on assailant firing at US embassy

    Lebanese soldiers have apprehended a man who opened fire on the US embassy in Beirut on Wednesday, according to Lebanon’s military.

    Local media reported that the assailant, identified only as a Syrian national, engaged in a gunfight with authorities for approximately 30 minutes before being captured.

    The US embassy confirmed that security forces responded swiftly to the incident, ensuring that none of its staff members were harmed.

    This event occurs amid escalating regional tensions, marked by cross-border attacks between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, a Lebanese group involved in the Gaza conflict.

    The ongoing violence along the Israeli-Lebanese border has displaced thousands on both sides. During a visit to the border on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning of “very strong action” against Hezbollah.

    The assailant shot by the Lebanese military was wearing a bloodied black vest with the words “Islamic State” written in Arabic and the English initials “I” and “S”, according to local media.

    The reason behind the attack on the heavily fortified building remains shrouded in mystery. The Lebanese military has acknowledged only one individual involved, who sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital.

    However, there have been reports indicating the presence of multiple suspects, including a driver and three assailants who opened fire.

    The office of Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has confirmed that the Prime Minister has been briefed on the incident. They assured that the situation is under control and investigations are ongoing.

    The Lebanese military has deployed troops in and around the embassy premises as a precautionary measure.

    This incident comes amid heightened tensions following the Israel-Gaza conflict.

    Notably, the US embassy in Lebanon was relocated from central Beirut to Aukar, a northern suburb, after a devastating bombing in 1983 claimed the lives of 63 people.

    In recent times, there have been protests around the embassy, reflecting public outrage over the escalating death toll in Gaza.

    In October, clashes erupted between protesters and Lebanese security forces in the vicinity of the embassy.

  • American worker at US Embassy in Israel dies

    American worker at US Embassy in Israel dies

    An employee who worked at the US Embassy in Jerusalem has passed away, the embassy said on Monday.

    “We can confirm that a worker from the United States has passed away. ” The place in Jerusalem where a country’s government has its offices. “The US did not do it. ” An ambassador is a person who represents their country in another country. No one thinks there was cheating. “We don’t have any more information to tell,” the spokesperson said.

    The embassy spokesperson said an American worker at the U. S embassy has died. The place where ambassadors work in Jerusalem. We don’t have more information to tell you.

    They said they don’t think anything bad happened, but they haven’t given any more details yet.

    Reporter Dimi Reider from The Lead says that the diplomat was found dead in their apartment.

    A person from the US State Department said on Monday that we will know more once the deceased employee’s family has been told.

    An American embassy worker in Jerusalem has passed away, the embassy said on Monday.

    In 2018, President Trump’s government moved the US embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv, where it was for about 50 years.

    In 2017, Trump changed the long-standing US policy by saying that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel.

    The decision made Trump supporters and Israelis happy, but it made Palestinians and some of the Arab world very angry.

    The embassy move was a key part of Trump’s plans during his 2016 campaign. The proposal was liked a lot by evangelical Christians, who also supported Trump’s campaign and his choice of Mike Pence as VP.

    Since the mid-90s, US presidents from both political parties didn’t move the embassy to Jerusalem, even though Congress passed a law in 1995 saying they should.

  • Job vacancy: US Embassy in need of truck driver

    Job vacancy: US Embassy in need of truck driver

    The United States of America Embassy in Ghana is in search of a utility truck driver.

    On its website, the Embassy noted that the work schedule for this position is full-time (40 hours per week).

    The candidate must be able to begin working within a reasonable period of time (6 weeks) of receipt of agency authorization and/or clearances/certifications or their candidacy may end.

    The salary ranges from $7,213 to $7,213/per year. The closing date for application is February 12, 2024.

  • US Embassy in Zambia sacks workers over fraud allegations

    The US embassy in Zambia has dismissed 10 employees for alleged fraud, misconduct, and corruption.

    While the statement did not disclose their names or nationalities, it emphasized that no organization is exempt from corruption, which has detrimental effects on public services, national unity, and economic development.

    The embassy highlighted its commitment to combating corruption in Zambia despite facing similar challenges in the United States.

    This move doubles the number of American and Zambian staff terminated by the US government in the last 18 months due to fraud or corrupt practices.

  • More than 4000 Ghanaians studied in US for 2021-22 academic year

    More than 4000 Ghanaians studied in US for 2021-22 academic year

    The U.S. Embassy has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting aspiring West African youth in achieving their dreams of pursuing higher education in prestigious American colleges and universities.

    In a debut Education Fair held in Kumasi, the embassy, in collaboration with its educational advisory service, EducationUSA, hosted nearly 30 esteemed U.S. universities and colleges.

    The primary goal was to offer academic solutions and opportunities to students, ultimately aiming to increase the admission of qualified Ghanaian students into U.S.-based educational institutions.

    The 2022 Open Doors Report underscored this commitment, revealing that during the 2021-22 academic year, 4,916 Ghanaian students were enrolled in colleges and universities across all 50 states of the United States.

    This marked a noteworthy 16% increase compared to the previous year, reflecting the ongoing upward trend in the number of Ghanaian students pursuing education in the United States.

    During the College Fair Opening Ceremony, Cultural Affairs Officer Laneice Brooker expressed the embassy’s unwavering commitment to assisting a greater number of prospective students in realizing their aspirations to study in the United States.

    “Even though Ghana was one of the few countries to see an increase in the number of students who went to the United States to study in the last academic year during the pandemic, we aren’t satisfied and are working to see those numbers increase even more,” she said.

    Among Sub-Saharan African nations, Ghana stands as the second-largest source of students bound for the United States, with only Nigeria surpassing it in this regard.

    Remarkably, Ghana has now ascended to the 18th position globally for sending graduate students to the United States, underscoring its growing prominence in international education.

    In a remarkable display of interest and determination, a multitude of students, spanning from secondary to tertiary levels of education in the region, filled the Great Hall of the KNUST in pursuit of valuable guidance for their admission aspirations.

    These students engaged with advisors from various universities, delving into the intricacies of college applications and exploring avenues to secure substantial scholarships, all in an effort to enhance their prospects of gaining admission to esteemed institutions.

    Laneice Brooker, in her address, reiterated the embassy’s warm welcome to students from diverse intellectual and cultural backgrounds, reaffirming its commitment to facilitating their educational pursuits.

    “Our universities and colleges are eager to welcome more Ghanaian students because of the diversity – both intellectual and cultural – they bring to their U.S. classrooms,” she said.

    Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Provost of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Professor Charles Marfo reiterated the need for one to invest their resources into furthering their education to a higher level.

    “Consider as the last step in the formal education ladder, higher education is critical to the development of any nation. It offers experiential learning opportunities. It shapes people’s thinking and provides international exposure and opportunities for high-level research and personal growth,” he said.

    Over the past year, EducationUSA centers in both Accra and Kumasi have provided invaluable guidance to thousands of Ghanaian students, aiding them in their applications to American universities and colleges.

    The dedicated advisors at these centers have been instrumental in helping numerous students gain admission to a wide array of accredited higher education institutions. Their efforts have also resulted in the facilitation of $7 million in financial aid and scholarships for these students.

    This successful Education Fair model will be extended to city centers in two additional West African countries, namely Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, in order to further support and empower aspiring students across the region.

  • US embassy raises alert amid terror threats in Uganda

    US embassy raises alert amid terror threats in Uganda

    The US embassy in Uganda is saying that there is still a danger of terrorist attacks in Uganda and the surrounding area. This comes as the Ugandan police evacuated a business center in the capital city, Kampala, because they thought there might be a bomb inside.

    The US embassy has warned American citizens to be cautious and not to go to crowded places. This comes after the police in Uganda stopped a suicide bombing attempt in Kampala.

    Patrick Onyango, who speaks for the police in Kampala, said that they caught a 28-year-old person who they think was going to blow themselves up. They caught them just before they went into a church called Rubaga Miracle Centre, which is run by Pastor Robert Kayanja.

    Mr Onyango said that the person who got arrested was assisting the police in finding three more people suspected to be involved in a planned attack on churches in Uganda.

    The police say that the man hid a homemade bomb inside a food container which he put in a bag.

    The authorities were able to safely set off the explosive, which had nails, a cell phone, detonator, booster charger, and other parts included.

  • Hundreds queue up in front of US Embassy for visas despite rains

    Hundreds queue up in front of US Embassy for visas despite rains

    Amidst the ongoing discourse surrounding individuals seeking better prospects in more developed nations, disconcerting images have emerged depicting a troubling scene at the entrance of one of the nation’s largest foreign embassies.

    Photographs, shared on Twitter by Annie Ampofo, a journalist at Metro TV, reveal numerous individuals forming extensive, serpentine lines as they patiently await their turn for assistance at the United States Embassy in Accra.

    Adding to the concern, Ampofo shared that these individuals endured the drizzling rain while standing in the open. Astonishingly, upon close examination of the images, no umbrellas or indications of raincoats are visible, depicting their resilience against the weather while patiently queuing.

    Furthermore, one photograph clearly shows the dampened asphalt road, a testament to the recent rainfall that had occurred.

    Addressing the situation, Annie Ampofo posed a poignant question, questioning the treatment of the host country’s citizens by foreign embassies in Ghana, and pondering how long such treatment would persist.

    “Why do foreign Embassies treat us this badly… This is the American Embassy… how long will this continue???

    “Actually, it was drizzling when this pick was taken…” she wrote on her Twitter page.

    Meanwhile, recent reports indicate that professionals such as nurses have relocated from Ghana, to places like Canada, America, the UK, among others, in search of greener pastures.

  • US and Ghana forge strong trade links, attain $3.7bn in goods exchange in 2022

    US and Ghana forge strong trade links, attain $3.7bn in goods exchange in 2022

    The United States and Ghana achieved a historic peak in goods trade in 2022, reaching a record-breaking total of $3.7 billion.

    Additionally, in the year 2022, Ghana revealed a trade surplus of $1.8 billion with the United States, as stated by the US Embassy situated in Accra.

    The Embassy’s statement highlighted that the trade in services is robust and on the rise. Under the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) trade preferences, Ghanaians have the opportunity to export over 6,500 items to the United States without incurring duties.

    The United States government continues to support economic development as Ghana’s top development partner. 

    In 2022, U.S. bilateral assistance to Ghana totalled over $150 million with programs in health, economic growth, agriculture, education, human rights, governance, and security. 

    Last year, the U.S. government also provided over $32 million in agricultural assistance in Ghana. 

    More recently, the U.S. Development Finance Corporation announced new support for $25 million in financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in the agricultural sector in Northern Ghana.

    Supporting digital economic development, the United States recently announced a $300 million investment in data centres in Africa, including Ghana.

    Find more details below;

    Two-Way Trade:

    • Value of U.S.-Ghana two-way trade in 2022: $3.7 billion
    • Ghana exports to the United States in 2022: $2.7 billion
    • Major Ghanaian exports to the United States include crude oil, cocoa (bean, paste, and butter), apparel, rubber, and cassava.
    • The United States is Ghana’s fourth largest export market.

    U.S. Exports to Ghana in 2022: $1 billion

    • Major U.S. exports to Ghana include cars, machinery, paper products, plastics, medical devices, fertilizers, and agricultural goods.
    • Ghana is the United States’ third largest export market in Sub-Saharan Africa behind South Africa and Nigeria.

    Business and Investment:

    • More than 100 U.S. companies and brands operate in the Ghanaian market, investing locally and employing Ghanaians.  U.S. investment in Ghana is concentrated in energy, mining, agro-processing, healthcare, ICT, consumer goods, and food packaging. 
    • Ghana’s tourism industry continues to grow, generating $2.4 billion in 2022.  Americans are now the largest number of international visitors to Ghana, accounting for roughly 100,000 visitors per year.   
    • Foreign direct investment (FDI) from the United States totalled $421 million in 2021.  In 2022, Ghana received $1.5 billion in FDI from all sources.

    In a related development, the U.S. Embassy, U.S. Commercial Service, the American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana (AmCham), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Embassy of Ghana in Washington, D.C. will co-host the U.S. – Ghana Business Expo from August 10-11, 2023 at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra. 

    The event will prioritise opportunities to form new partnerships between U.S. and Ghanaian companies.

  • US orders partial evacuation of embassy in Niger

    US orders partial evacuation of embassy in Niger

    The United States has issued an order for the partial evacuation of its embassy in Niger in response to last week’s coup.

    Numerous foreign nationals have already been evacuated from the country, and just recently, protesters targeted the French embassy on Sunday.

    Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of the coup, has cautioned against any interference in Niger’s internal affairs.

    Despite an official prohibition on demonstrations, protests in support of the coup are anticipated on Thursday to coincide with Niger’s independence day.

    France, the former colonial ruler of Niger, has requested assurances from the military junta now in control of the nation regarding the security of their embassy.

    The attack on the French diplomatic facility led to the organization of evacuation flights.

    There is an observed military presence around several embassies, ministry offices, and the presidential palace, as reported by Sadissou, who is located in Maradi, Niger’s second-largest city.

    However, despite the apparent calm, he noted that the situation remains fragile.

    “The situation has changed and so people are very anxious. They’re anxious about the future, about what’s going to happen.”

    Niger holds notable status as a major uranium producer and is strategically positioned along a vital migratory path to North Africa and the Mediterranean.

    According to the state department, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in a conversation with the deposed President, Mohamed Bazoum, on Wednesday. The state department emphasized the United States’ dedication to reinstating Niger’s democratically elected government.

    Matthew Miller, a spokesperson, affirmed that despite the partial evacuation, the US embassy in the capital city of Niamey would continue to operate.

    “We remain committed to the people of Niger and our relationship with the people of Niger and we remain diplomatically engaged at the highest levels,” he said.

    The United States is a significant contributor of both humanitarian and security assistance to Niger, and it has previously cautioned that the coup could result in the suspension of all collaborative efforts.

    The British embassy in Niamey, the capital of Niger, has also revealed its decision to decrease staff numbers due to the prevailing security circumstances.

    France and the European Union have already suspended financial and developmental support.

    The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), a trade bloc encompassing 15 West African nations, has imposed sanctions that encompass a cessation of all commercial dealings with Niger and the freezing of the country’s assets within the regional central bank.

    In addition, Niger’s power company has indicated that Nigeria, its neighboring country, has reduced electricity supplies, leading to extensive power outages. However, this claim has yet to be officially confirmed by Nigeria.

    The coup has sparked significant demonstrations against France, a substantial partner, and has seen a surge in support for Russia, whose influence has grown in the west and central African regions in recent years.

    On Sunday, a substantial gathering of protesters congregated outside the French embassy in Niamey. Among their chants were “Long live Russia,” “Long live Putin,” and “Down with France.” Additionally, there were instances of setting fire to parts of the embassy compound.

    During evacuation efforts organized by the French government, a total of 262 individuals arrived in Paris on Wednesday. Italy also conducted an evacuation flight, landing in Rome with 87 individuals on board.

    In his address, Gen Tchiani stated that French citizens in Niger had not encountered “the slightest threat.”

    Niger, housing military bases for both France and the US, has played a pivotal role as a Western ally in the battle against jihadist extremism in the Sahel region.

    After the military leadership in neighboring Mali chose to collaborate with the Russian Wagner mercenary group in 2021, France shifted the focal point of its regional counter-terrorism operations to Niger.

  • 32 Ghanaians chosen for prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship

    32 Ghanaians chosen for prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship

    Some 32 young Ghanaians have been selected by the United States (US) Embassy in Ghana for the 2023 Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF).

    The group includes 18 women and 14 men selected among nearly 3,000 competitive applications from across the country.

    A statement issued by the Embassy and copied to the Ghana News Agency said the Fellows would travel later in June 2023, for intensive professional development and leadership training in Washington, D.C. and in various cities across the United States.

    It said the group comprised professionals from a diverse range of fields and regions, focused on issues such as climate change, combatting gender-based violence and child labour, treatment of non-communicable Diseases and mental health and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.

    The statement said the 2023 group also included a Ghanaian youth leader as part of the African Union’s cohort.

    It said when they returned, they would join the nearly 3,000-strong U.S. exchange alumni network in Ghana.

    The network actively engages with U.S. and Ghanaian leaders to develop community-based solutions to public policy challenges, including in health, education, human rights, women’s empowerment, and other critical areas.

    Madam Virginia E. Palmer, U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, said: “The Mandela Washington Fellowship supports the next generation of Ghanaian leaders in civil society, public service, business, and public health. Since 2014, nearly 300 young Ghanaians have benefited from this opportunity and returned to Ghana inspired to lead in their respective fields. We cannot wait to follow their success in the coming years.”

    The Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship programme under the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), providing nearly 700 young African leaders with leadership development and training in the United States each year.

    Over 5,000 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa have participated in the Fellowship since 2014.

  • Ghana film industry engages with US Embassy

    Ghana film industry engages with US Embassy

    Some significant actors in Ghana’s film industry have met with personnel from the US Embassy‘s cultural department.

    The aim of the meeting which took place on May 10, 2023, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration was to among other things address issues that emanated during the recent visit by the US Vice President HE Kamala Harris to Ghana where African American Filmmaker Mr Spike Lee who accompanied the Vice President made a blaring comment about the Ghana Film industry.

    The stakeholders’ meeting also took a critical look at the potential areas of collaboration between the film industry and the cultural department of the US Embassy in Ghana.

    It was convened by Mr. William Manful, the Director of the Americas Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.

  • How to check status of 2024 US Visa Lottery application

    How to check status of 2024 US Visa Lottery application

    The US Embassy in Ghana announced on May 6, 2023, via its social media handles that its “Diversity Visa 2024 selections are now available!”

    It meant that applicants accepted to apply for visas under what is widely known as the US Visa Lottery were ready.

    The embassy explained, however, that the selection did not guarantee a visa or an interview. Meaning applicants had to go through further processes to get a visa.

    “This is the ONLY way to check if you have been selected. Selection does not guarantee a visa or an interview,” the Embassy’s post read in part.

    The embassy also directed applicants to check the status of their application via a US Department of State website, wherein they had to fill in some details to know whether or not they had been successful.

    The process of verification is as follows:

    ▪ Log-on to – Electronic Diversity Visa
    Entrant Status Check: 5.8

    ▪ Confirmation number or code issued when you registered for the program.

    ▪ Surnames as written in the electronic entry form.

    ▪ Birth year, with all four digits.

    ▪ Authentication code indicated by the website.

    Find a pdf copy of the said webpage below:

    Fee hike for certain categories of visas effective May 30

    Meanwhile, effective May 30, 2023, non-immigrant visa fees will be revised upwards by the United States of America Embassy in Accra.

    This means that B1/B2 visas for business and tourist travel, F visas for international students, J exchange visitor visas, and other visa classes not requiring a petition will increase from $160 to $185.

    On the other hand, petition-based non-immigrants who fall within (H, L, O, P, Q, and R) categories will pay fees of $205 instead of the previous $190.

    According to the US Embassy, the move, which will take effect at all U.S embassies and consulates worldwide, was established by the Department of State in Washington, D.C.

    Persons who apply before May 30 and schedule an interview within 365 days of the day of payment will, however, not be affected by the change.

    “Fees are increasing for new visa applications as of May 30, 2023, only. Applicants who pay the visa fee before May 30, 2023, and schedule an interview within 365 days of the day payment is made are not affected by this change.

    “There is no requirement for the interview to actually occur during that 365-day period, applicants must just take the step of scheduling an appointment within 365 days,” the US embassy in Ghana said.

  • Winners of 2024 US Diversity Visa Lottery announced

    Winners of 2024 US Diversity Visa Lottery announced

    The US embassy in Ghana has released the list of selected applicants for visas for 2024.

    The embassy explained that the selection does not guarantee a visa or an interview. 

    However, applicants may find out about their status on its website. 

    Each year, the Department of State conducts a random selection of Diversity Immigrant Visa (DV) applicants, based on the allocation of available visas in each region and country. 

    Meanwhile, effective May 30, 2023, nonimmigrant visa fees will be revised upwards by the United States of America Embassy in Accra. 

    This means that B1/B2 visas for business and tourist travel, F visas for international students, J exchange visitor visas, and other visa classes not requiring a petition will increase from $160 to $185. 

    On the other hand, petition-based nonimmigrants who fall within (H, L, O, P, Q, and R) categories will pay fees of $205 instead of the previous $190.

    According to the US Embassy, the move, which will take effect at all U.S embassies and consulates around the world, was established by the Department of State in Washington, D.C. 

    Persons who apply before May 30 and schedule an interview within 365 days of the day of payment will, however, not be affected by the change. 

    “Fees are increasing for new visa applications as of May 30, 2023, only. Applicants who pay the visa fee before May 30, 2023, and schedule an interview within 365 days of the day payment is made are not affected by this change. 

    “There is no requirement for the interview to actually occur during that 365-day period, applicants must just take the step of scheduling an appointment within 365 days,” myjoyonline quoted the embassy as having said. 

  • US Embassy announces visa fee increase, now pegged at $185

    US Embassy announces visa fee increase, now pegged at $185

    The US Embassy has announced an increase in visa fees worldwide from US$160 to US$185 effective May 30, 2023.

    The statement from the embassy on May 4, 2023, detailed that “fees for U.S. nonimmigrant visas will increase worldwide on May 30, 2023.” “The fee for B1/B2 visas for business and tourist travel, F visas for international students, J exchange visitor visas, and other visa classes not requiring a petition will increase to US$185 (from US$160).”

    It further went on to say that “for petition-based non immigrant categories (H, L, O, P, Q, and R), the fee will increase to US$205 (from US$190). This fee increase is established by the Department of State in Washington, D.C., and will take effect equally at all U.S. embassies and consulates around the world,” it added.

    However, individuals who apply for a visa on or after  May 30, 2023, will be required to pay the new, higher fees. It does not affect applications submitted before that date.

    “Fees are increasing for new visa applications as of May 30, 2023 only.” Applicants who pay the visa fee before May 30, 2023, and schedule an interview within 365 days of the day payment is made are not affected by this change. 

    There is no requirement for the interview to actually occur during that 365-day period; applicants must just take the step of scheduling an appointment within 365 days.

    From October 1, 2022, visa fee payments will be valid for 365 days from the date of payment receipt. Within this period, applicants are required to either schedule an interview appointment or submit an interview waiver application.

    However, there is no requirement that the actual interview take place within this 365-day period. 

    So, applicants have one year to schedule an interview or submit an interview waiver application after paying the visa fee, according to the Embassy.

    It also added that “The Department of State’s consular operations are funded by fees collected for the consular services it provides.” 

    Nonimmigrant visa fees are set based on the actual cost of providing these services, as determined after conducting a study of the cost of these services.

    “Nonimmigrant visa fee increases are based strictly on the results of this cost-of-service model, and the Department of State only recovers the costs of providing these consular services,” the embassy said in the statement.

  • US Embassy in Ghana borrows popular term ‘WKHKYD’ to caution the general public

    US Embassy in Ghana borrows popular term ‘WKHKYD’ to caution the general public

    In a time when some Ghanaians are making plans to travel abroad for greener pastures due to the nation’s economic hardship, the US Embassy has warned of fraudsters who claim to offer quick visas to travelers.

    In a Twitter reaction by the Embassy in Ghana, they admonished the general public to go through the right channels when seeking for visas to avoid being duped.

    Borrowing the popular term ‘Wo k)) ho ko y3 d3n” abbreviated as ‘WKHKYD’ which is used as an expression after a disappointment (translated into the English language as ‘What did you go there for?’), they urged Ghanaians to only visit their website when in need of a visa.

    “To avoid #WKHKYD experiences, always use the only authentic source for U.S. visa: https://gh.usembassy.gov/visas/,” the Embassy tweeted in a response to a Twitter user who brought their attention to a visa advertisement.

    The giant billboard which has been erected in some parts of the country claims to offer visas to interested persons who want to visit the United States of America.

    The Embassy’s response on February 12 has gained the attention of thousands of tweeps.

    Check out the post below:

  • Wait time for non-immigrant visa appointments reduced – US Embassy

    The United States Embassy in Ghana has revealed that the waiting time for appointments after non-immigrant visa applications are brought in has reduced.

    According to the US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, it will now less than six months for appointments to be scheduled.

    Virginia Palmer revealed this in a video posted on the embassy’s official social media accounts on Friday, October 21, 2022.

    “That is down from two and half years when I arrived earlier this year. That is still too long but we are still taking steps to continue to reduce wait times, particularly for renewal,” she said.

    Addressing applicants, she explained that the plight of international students is also at the core of her office’s activities.

    She said the embassy has also “worked to ensure that students got accelerated processing to facilitate their education before the start of classes.

    “We processed a record 7,000 student visa cases in the last 12 months alone. That’s nearly 70% more than our previous record,” Mrs Palmer explained.

    The ambassador revealed that a total of 32,000 visa applications were processed in the past years alone.

    Against these numbers, more effort is being implemented to reduce the backlog of cases and reduce wait time further, per her assessment.

    Virginia Palmer is also cognisant of the need for Immigration Visa applications to get some attention, adding that “you can be assured that reducing wait times for immigration visas is very much on our minds.”

     

  • US Embassy to hold virtual college Fair for Ghanaian students

    The United States Embassy in Ghana is to hold a free virtual education fair for undergraduate and postgraduate Ghanaian students.

    The fair is dubbed: “U.S. College Fair” and slated for November 18 and 19, 2020.

    A statement, copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) by the Embassy,
    said attendees would learn how to study abroad in the United States and have a chance to interact with over 150 U.S. colleges and universities.

    It said the fair would be held on November 18 for those interested in undergraduate studies and November 19 for prospective graduate students, adding that both sections would be from 1200 hours to 1600 hours.

    The statement said the registration was free and open until November 14.

    It said EducationUSA was a network of experienced advisers supported by the U.S. Department of State to provide free, comprehensive, impartial and current information on U.S. higher education.

    The statement said the two EducationUSA Centers in Ghana were located within the U.S. Embassy in Accra and ACE Consult in Asokwa-Kumasi.

    Source: GNA

  • Tunisia: Suicide attack targets US embassy

    Two suicide bombers have blown themselves up outside the United States embassy in the Tunisian capital, killing a policeman and injuring six other people, authorities said, in the most serious attack in months.

    An explosion at around midday on Friday rocked the Berges du Lac district, where the highly fortified embassy is located, causing panic among pedestrians and motorists.

    “Two individuals targeted a security patrol… in the street leading to the American embassy,” the Interior Ministry said in a statement.

    Photos posted on local news websites showed damaged vehicles on the road outside the embassy.

    “We heard a very powerful explosion … we saw the remains of the terrorist lying on the ground after he went on the motorbike towards the police,” said Amira, a shopkeeper, told Reuters news agency.

    Police taped off the area around the blast site, which was littered with debris. The US flag could be seen fluttering in the background.

    There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

    Police at the scene said the assailants drove to the area on a motorcycle and detonated their explosive devices as they were approached by officers deployed at a roundabout leading to the embassy.

    The two attackers died and one officer, identified as a 52-year-old father of three, Lieutenant Taoufik Mohammed El Nissaoui, succumbed to his wounds.

    Five more injured officers and a lightly wounded female civilian were in a stable state, Interior Minister Hichem Mechichi told reporters.

    “It was a homemade explosive device and we are looking for those who helped make it,” he said.

    Donald Blome, the US ambassador to Tunisia, said he was “outraged” by the attack, before adding that all embassy personnel were safe and accounted for.

    “I would like to thank the Tunisian authorities for their immediate protection of the US Embassy today, as well as their rapid response in investigating the situation,” he said in a statement.

    Armed men have targeted Tunisia repeatedly in recent years, killing scores of people.

    Last summer, the ISIL (ISIS) group said it was behind three blasts in the capital, including one near the French embassy that killed a policeman and another that wounded five people during a security operation to detain a suspect.

    Source: aljazeera