The United States Embassy in Accra has announced the immediate release of more than 1,000 interview slots for non-immigrant visas, urging prospective travellers to seize what it described as a rare opportunity.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the embassy said, “Embassy Accra has Non-Immigrant Visa Appointments available now,” adding that more than 1,000 B1/B2 visa appointment slots were open within the next week.
“There are more than 1,000 B1/B2 visa appointment slots available in the next week – one of those could be yours,” the statement said.
The embassy encouraged individuals planning short-term travel to the United States for business or tourism to act quickly by either booking new appointments or rescheduling existing ones set for later in the year.
“If you’ve been planning to apply for a U.S. visa, this is a great time to schedule your interview. Book a new appointment – or move up one scheduled for later in the year – we want to interview you now!” the embassy stated, directing applicants to its visa information portal.
The B1/B2 visa category covers temporary visits for business (B1) and tourism or medical treatment (B2). Applicants are required to complete the online DS-160 form and schedule interviews at the embassy in their country of residence or nationality.
The mission also reminded applicants that visa application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
The release of additional appointment slots comes amid broader policy adjustments in U.S. visa processing.
According to notices issued by the U.S. Department of State, immigrant visa issuances to nationals of certain countries, including Ghana, were paused effective January 21, 2026, pending further review.
The notice indicated that while applicants may continue to submit applications and attend interviews, visa issuance has been temporarily halted.
In a separate development, the Department also paused visa issuances to diversity immigrant visa applicants.
Further restrictions are expected under Presidential Proclamation 10998, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
The proclamation suspends or limits entry and visa issuance to nationals of 39 countries and certain other categories of applicants, though affected individuals may still attend scheduled interviews.
Additionally, applicants for H-1B and H-4 visas, as well as F, M and J non-immigrant visas, have been instructed to set their social media accounts to “public” to facilitate vetting procedures aimed at verifying identity and admissibility under U.S. law.
The embassy has also introduced a new appointment system designed to guide applicants through the process and provide support where necessary.
A U.S. visa is generally required for foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States and is affixed to the traveller’s passport.
While some countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program administered by the Department of Homeland Security, Ghana is not currently included.
The simultaneous expansion of non-immigrant visa interview slots and tightening of immigrant visa issuance reflects a mixed moment in U.S. consular operations in Ghana—opening immediate pathways for short-term travel while signalling increased scrutiny for those seeking permanent residence.
