The U.S. Embassy in Accra has announced a transition to a new visa services provider, effective August 26, 2024. This change will impact the scheduling of visa appointments, customer service access, and the overall visa application process. The current service provider’s website will cease operations on August 16, 2024, marking a temporary suspension of certain services.
Key Details and Dates
Service Disruption Period: From August 16 to August 26, access to the old visa service provider’s website will be unavailable. During this time, applicants will not be able to make new appointments, cancel or reschedule existing ones, or access customer service.
• August 16: Last day to access the ustraveldocs.com account for payments, appointment scheduling, and customer service inquiries.
• August 21: Final day to drop off documents at Premium Delivery locations.
• August 23: Last day for document drop-offs at designated locations in Ghana for delivery to the Embassy.
• August 26: Launch of the new visa services website, with fee payments, appointment scheduling, and customer service resuming. New locations for document drop-off and pickup will also become available.
For Applicants with Scheduled Interviews
• Interviews On or Before August 16: Continue as planned, with access to account details via ustraveldocs.com. No further action required.
• Interviews Between August 16 and August 26: Attend the scheduled interview as planned. Print your appointment confirmation before August 16, as account access will be unavailable after this date. If you miss your appointment, check the new website after August 26 for rescheduling instructions.
• Interviews On or After August 26: Prepare to create a new user account on the new visa services website. Print your appointment confirmation before August 16 to avoid any issues. Account creation will be necessary for future interactions, including submitting requests and contacting customer service. Expedited appointment requests pending by August 16 must be resubmitted.
For Applicants Yet to Pay the Visa Application Fee
• Travel in August or September: Pay the fee and schedule your appointment as soon as possible, considering limited availability. Follow the guidance based on your interview date.
• Travel After August or September: It is advisable to wait until after August 26 to start the visa application process.
Important Considerations
Visa applicants must ensure they meet the necessary requirements for the visa category they are applying for. The purpose of travel and other pertinent details will determine the appropriate visa type under U.S. immigration law.
For further updates and detailed instructions, applicants are encouraged to regularly check the Embassy’s official channels. The transition aims to enhance the efficiency and convenience of the visa application process for all applicants.
