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The United States Embassy in Ghana has reported a significant increase in the number of visa applications from Ghanaians, with figures tripling between 2019 and 2023. This rise in applications, while flattering, has also posed a challenge for the Embassy in terms of managing and processing the increased demand.
Backlog and New System Implementation
According to Elliot Fertik, the American Consul General in Ghana, the surge in visa applications has led to a substantial backlog. Speaking at a recent roundtable, Fertik explained that despite the Embassy’s efforts to increase resources and expedite the visa process, the demand continues to exceed capacity.
“What is driving the backlog is visa demand. If you compare the number of people who paid the visa application fee in 2019 before the pandemic to those who did so in 2023, the number in 2023 is triple what it was in 2019. We hope this new system will provide some additional enhancements and will be more efficient,” he said.
Enhancing Processing Capabilities
To address the backlog, the Embassy has been processing more applications and conducting more interviews. Fertik highlighted that this summer, the Embassy processed 65% more student visa applications than during the same period in 2023.
Transition to a New Visa Services Provider
Effective August 26, 2024, the U.S. Embassy will transition to a new visa services provider. This change is aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the visa application process. The current visa service provider’s website and services will be accessible until August 16, 2024. During the transition period from August 16 to August 26, new visa appointments cannot be made, nor can existing appointments be canceled or rescheduled. However, all non-immigrant visa interview appointments already scheduled will remain valid.
