US Embassy Consul General explains why visa application fees are non-refundable

The Consul General of the United States Embassy in Ghana, Mr Elliot Fertik, has explained that the payment of visa application fees ahead of interview appointments is a legal requirement under U.S. law and is non-refundable, even when an application is unsuccessful.

In an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Mr Fertik stated that the fee covers the cost of processing the application, irrespective of the outcome.

“U.S. law requires us to collect the cost of processing each visa application, regardless of whether the visa is granted or denied. This fee covers the processing costs incurred by the government,” he said.

Mr Fertik acknowledged the frustration expressed by some Ghanaians who pay the fee but do not receive visas.

He clarified, though, that every application is reviewed on its own merit in accordance with U.S. law and the information provided during the interview.

“This isn’t a policy specific to Ghana,” he added. “It applies globally and is designed so that each applicant bears the cost of their own application process.”

Responding to concerns about challenges in securing appointments, particularly for student visa applicants, Mr Fertik urged prospective travellers to plan and avoid using third parties who claim they can secure slots for a fee.

“Those offering to secure appointment slots for a fee are likely dishonest,” he warned.

“No one has special access to the visa appointment calendar. Paying such people often results in fraud and violates both U.S. and Ghanaian law.”

Mr Fertik said the Embassy had worked with the Ghana Police Service to arrest and prosecute individuals found to be manipulating the visa appointment system.

Visa fees for non-immigrant categories, including student, tourist, and work visas, are paid before applicants can schedule interviews.

These fees are not refunded when applications are denied, a policy that continues to raise concerns among many Ghanaians hoping to travel to the United States.