U.S. Embassy in Ghana Opens 1,000+ Rapid Visa Slots Amid New Global Policy Shifts

The United States Embassy in Accra has announced the immediate release of more than 1,000 interview appointments for non-immigrant visas, describing it as a rare opportunity for prospective travellers to the United States.

In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, U.S. Embassy Ghana encouraged individuals planning trips for business or tourism to act quickly. The newly available slots are specifically for B1/B2 visas, which are issued for short-term visits such as meetings, conferences, medical treatment, or holidays. “There are more than 1,000 B1/B2 visa appointment slots available in the next week — one of those could be yours,” the embassy announced, urging applicants to either book new appointments or reschedule existing ones set for later in the year.

To apply, prospective travellers must complete the DS-160 online application form and schedule an interview at the embassy in their country of residence or nationality. Officials also reminded applicants that visa fees are non-refundable and cannot be transferred.

Broader Policy Changes

The release of additional non-immigrant visa appointments comes amid significant changes to U.S. visa policies.

Under guidance from the U.S. Department of State, immigrant visa issuances to nationals of certain countries — including Ghana — were paused effective January 21, 2026. According to a notice published by U.S. Visa Services, the pause affects countries whose immigrants are reported to have high rates of public assistance usage in the United States.

Although affected applicants may still submit applications and attend interviews, the actual issuance of immigrant visas has been temporarily suspended pending further review.

In a separate directive, the State Department also halted visa issuance to diversity visa applicants.

Additional restrictions are expected under Presidential Proclamation 10998, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The proclamation suspends or limits visa issuance and entry for nationals of 39 countries, as well as individuals travelling on documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority. While interviews may proceed, some applicants could ultimately be ruled ineligible for visa approval or entry.

Increased Vetting Measures

The embassy also highlighted updated vetting requirements. Applicants for H-1B visas and their H-4 dependents, as well as those seeking F, M, or J visas, are now required to set their social media privacy accounts to “public” to assist with identity verification and admissibility checks under U.S. law.

Additionally, a new appointment system has been introduced to better guide applicants through the visa process and provide support where necessary.

While Ghana is not part of the Visa Waiver Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Ghanaian travellers generally require a visa before entering the United States.

The move to expand short-term visa interview slots, even as immigrant visa issuances face tighter restrictions, reflects a notable shift in U.S. consular operations in Ghana — creating immediate opportunities for temporary travel while signalling increased scrutiny for those seeking permanent residence.