US Embassy Cautions Ghanaians Against Fraudulent Visa Consultants
U.S. Consul General in Ghana, Mr. Elliot Fertik, has cautioned Ghanaians against using visa agents or consultants when applying for U.S. visas. In an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, he described such agents as dishonest and often responsible for misinformation and visa rejections. Mr. Fertik emphasized that there are no quotas for non-immigrant visas and encouraged applicants to use official Embassy channels, apply honestly, and avoid shortcuts. He stressed that the application process is fair and transparent, and individuals should take full responsibility for their submissions.
Ama Boah
U.S. Consul General Warns Ghanaians Against Visa Agents: “They Are Lying, Don’t Fall Victim”
Mr. Elliot Fertik, the Consul General at the United States Embassy in Ghana, has issued a strong warning to Ghanaians seeking to travel to the United States: stay away from visa agents and so-called consultants. According to him, these intermediaries are often the cause of failed visa applications, misinformation, and in many cases, financial exploitation.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, June 24, Mr. Fertik expressed deep concern over the increasing number of applicants who fall prey to fraudulent individuals claiming to have inside influence at the U.S. Embassy.
“They are lying; they are ripping you off. It is probably not legitimate,” Mr. Fertik stated plainly. “The best thing you can do is apply directly through our official website. Don’t trust anyone who promises guaranteed results.”
Visa Agents: A Major Cause of Refusals
Mr. Fertik noted that many Ghanaian applicants rely on these so-called visa experts, only to submit incorrect, incomplete, or even fraudulent information. This, he explained, significantly increases their chances of visa refusal.
He added that the U.S. visa process is designed to be transparent and merit-based, and anyone who qualifies and follows the correct process has a fair chance of receiving a visa—regardless of whether they use an agent or not.
“There is no shortcut. There is no quota on non-immigrant visas. Each application is reviewed based on its individual merit,” he emphasized.
Apply the Right Way
The Consul General encouraged prospective applicants to:
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Use the official U.S. Embassy website for all visa-related information.
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Avoid third parties who claim to ‘know someone inside’.
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Contact the Embassy only through official phone numbers and email addresses listed online.
He also pointed out that many agents charge applicants exorbitant fees—sometimes thousands of dollars while providing no real value or, worse, sabotaging their chances with false information.
A National Concern
In a related report from May 2025, the U.S. Embassy revealed that out of 61,000 visa applications submitted in Ghana last year, only 25,000 were approved. A significant number of the refusals were linked to applications facilitated by unqualified agents.
Mr. Fertik believes that public education is key to reversing this trend and reducing the number of preventable visa denials.
Final Word to Applicants
The Consul General’s message was clear and uncompromising:
“If you’re serious about traveling to the United States, take responsibility for your application. Do it the right way—yourself.”
He reiterated that honesty, accuracy, and preparation, not connections or agents—are the true pillars of a successful U.S. visa application.
Side Note:
For official visa information and application guidelines, visit the U.S. Embassy in Ghana’s website.
Source:
myjoyonline.com
