U.S. Embassy Clarifies Visa Fee Policy Amid Concerns Over Non-Refundable Payments

The Consul General of the United States Embassy in Ghana, Mr. Elliot Fertik, has explained that visa application fees must be paid before scheduling an interview and are non-refundable under U.S. law — even if an application is denied.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Mr. Fertik noted that these fees cover the administrative costs of processing each application, regardless of its outcome.

“U.S. law requires us to charge a processing fee for every visa application, whether the visa is approved or denied,” he said. “The money covers the cost of reviewing the application and is not linked to the decision itself.”

Mr. Fertik acknowledged the frustrations of applicants who pay and do not receive visas. However, he emphasized that each case is judged on its own merit, based on U.S. legal requirements and the applicant’s interview.

“This is not a policy unique to Ghana,” he added. “Every applicant worldwide pays for their own application process.”

Addressing complaints about the difficulty of obtaining interview slots — especially for students — Mr. Fertik advised applicants to plan well in advance and avoid middlemen who charge fees to secure appointments.

“Anyone who claims they can guarantee an interview slot is probably a scammer,” he warned. “No one has special access to the visa appointment calendar. Paying someone for a slot often results in fraud and violates both U.S. and Ghanaian law.”

Mr. Fertik also revealed that the Embassy has partnered with the Ghana Police Service to prosecute those manipulating the system.

He reminded applicants that fees for all non-immigrant visa categories — including student, tourist, and work visas — must be paid before scheduling an interview and will not be refunded if the visa is denied.

The policy has continued to draw concern from many Ghanaians hoping to travel to the United States.