U.S. Embassy warns Ghanaians against visa fixers amid threat of travel restrictions

The United States Embassy in Ghana has issued a stern warning to Ghanaians against using visa “fixers” or middlemen, stressing that no individual or agent can guarantee a U.S. visa.
The caution comes amid reports that Ghana is among 36 countries at risk of facing new U.S. travel restrictions for failing to meet updated security and documentation standards.
In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Embassy emphasized that visa applications must be submitted through the official U.S. portal and warned against engaging third-party agents.
“You do not need a fixer or visa consultant to apply for a U.S. visa. Applications can be completed directly on our website at no additional cost,” the statement read.
“No fixer or consultant can guarantee a visa—such claims are fraudulent and meant to deceive.”
The Embassy further warned that submitting false documents or misrepresenting facts could result in a permanent travel ban to the United States.
This advisory comes as concerns grow over possible U.S. immigration policy changes.
A leaked memo, reportedly signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, places Ghana on a list of countries under review for insufficient cooperation in verifying visa applicants or for having high rates of immigration violations.
According to The Washington Post, the memo gives affected nations 60 days to improve compliance or face punitive measures, including travel bans and visa limitations.
Ghana is listed among 25 African nations, along with others from the Caribbean, Asia, and Oceania.
While reiterating its commitment to welcoming Ghanaians for lawful purposes such as education, business, and investment, the Embassy urged all applicants to avoid shortcuts and comply fully with U.S. immigration laws.
“Any attempt to enter the U.S. illegally, falsify visa information, work without authorization, or overstay a visa carries serious consequences,” the Embassy stressed.
With immigration enforcement tightening under President Donald Trump’s second term, the U.S. is expected to take a firmer stance on travel violations.
The Embassy’s message is a clear call for integrity in the visa process, reminding Ghanaians that only lawful, transparent applications will be considered.