US embassy suspends immigrant, non-immigrant visa appointments over coronavirus

The US embassy in Ghana has announced it is suspending routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments as part of efforts to prevent the spread of coronavirus in Ghana.

In a statement, the embassy said appointments of such visas is suspended effective March 17, 2020.

It however noted emergency visas will still be processed.

“Out of an abundance of caution and in keeping with the Government of Ghana’s efforts to prevent and contain the spread of coronavirus, the U.S. Embassy Accra in Ghana is temporarily suspending routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments, effective March 17, 2020. We will resume routine visa services as soon as possible. If you have an urgent matter and need to travel immediately, please follow the guidance provided on our website to request an emergency appointment.

“Emergency services for U.S. Citizens in Ghana will continue. Routine services for U.S. Citizens in Ghana will continue on a reduced schedule to ensure the safety and welfare of our citizens and employees,” the statement said.

The move comes hours after Ghana’s embassy in the United States announced it is suspending consular services

A statement signed by the Head of Information and Chancery, Kofi Tonto, stated that the decision had become necessary as a precautionary measure to protect clients.