The United States Embassy in Ghana has reported a significant surge in visa applications, tripling the number received from 2019 to 2023.
Elliot Fertik, the American Consul General in Ghana, highlighted this increase at a recent roundtable discussion, noting that while the demand is encouraging, it exceeds the resources currently available to process applications efficiently.
“We hope the new system, which will be implemented on August 26, will help mitigate the backlog by enhancing efficiency,” said Fertik. “Comparatively, the number of visa application fees paid in 2023 is three times that of 2019.”
In response to the rising demand, the Embassy has been processing more applications, particularly for student visas. There was a 65% increase in student visa applications processed this summer compared to the same period in 2023.
To address the backlog and improve service delivery, the US Embassy will transition to a new visa services provider starting August 26, 2024. Consequently, access to the current provider’s website will cease on August 16, 2024. During this transition period, from August 16 to August 26, applicants cannot make new appointments, cancel or reschedule existing ones, or access customer service.
The Embassy provided vital information for visa applicants to ensure a smooth transition:
– Interviews Scheduled on or Before August 16: Applicants can access their accounts on ustraveldocs.com to review appointment details and contact customer service.
Interviews Scheduled Between August 16 and August 26: Applicants must print their appointment confirmation letters before August 16. They cannot cancel or reschedule appointments during this period.
– Interviews Scheduled for August 26 or Later:
Applicants must print their appointment confirmation letters before August 16 and create new user accounts on the latest visa services website from August 26 to manage appointments and contact customer service.
For those who have paid the visa fee but have not scheduled an interview, it is advised to do so promptly. Applicants planning to travel in August or September are encouraged to schedule appointments immediately due to limited slots.
Important dates to note include:
– August 16: Last day to access ustraveldocs.com for fee payments, scheduling appointments, and customer service.
– August 21: Last day to drop off documents at Premium Delivery locations.
– August 23: Last day to drop off documents at locations in Ghana for delivery to the Embassy.
– August 26: Launch the new visa appointment website with full-service resumption.
The U.S. Embassy stresses the importance of understanding visa requirements and completing necessary steps promptly to avoid disruptions during this transition period.
