US Embassy Introduces Stricter Student Visa Checks with Mandatory Social Media Screening

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The United States Embassy in Ghana has implemented a new vetting policy requiring student visa applicants to make their social media profiles public before attending visa interviews.

According to officials, the enhanced screening is part of efforts to safeguard the integrity of the visa process and gain a broader understanding of applicants’ backgrounds. Speaking to Joy News, Elliot Fertik, the Consul General at the US Embassy, emphasized that social media vetting has always been within the Embassy’s reach, but is now being formalized and prioritized especially for students.

“We reserve the right to engage in social media vetting for any visa applicant,” Mr. Fertik said. “However, under the current administration, we are focusing in particular on social media vetting for students.”

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He clarified that the policy is not designed to target most Ghanaians but rather to ensure that those with potentially disqualifying conduct or backgrounds are properly evaluated.

Commenting on whether negative online posts about the U.S. could affect applications, Mr. Fertik admitted it could, though each case would be assessed individually. He stressed the Embassy is not stifling free speech but taking practical steps to determine visa eligibility.

In a strong warning, the Consul General cautioned applicants against overstaying or violating visa terms, citing serious consequences including bans of up to a lifetime, and possible legal prosecution for fraud or criminal activity. He also urged students to clearly articulate their academic intentions and how they intend to finance their studies during interviews.

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The Embassy also addressed the growing reliance on unofficial “agents” or “fixers” who claim to secure visa appointments or approvals for a fee. Mr. Fertik warned, “They are lying; they are ripping you off.”

He debunked myths that visas can be obtained without interviews or through backdoor means, urging applicants to trust only official sources and processes.

With demand for student visas surging, the Embassy revealed that visa fee payments have tripled from 2019 to 2023. Fertik acknowledged that due to capacity limitations, “we will not be able to interview everyone who wants a visa interview.”

Applicants are advised to plan early, avoid fraudulent intermediaries, and prepare adequately for interviews as the U.S. Embassy tightens its visa assessment procedures.

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