Immigrating to the US from Ghana

Ghanaians can apply for various immigration routes, such as family sponsorship, employment opportunities, the Diversity Visa Lottery, or seeking asylum or refugee status. The process typically includes eligibility determination, visa application, background checks, interviews, and compliance with US immigration laws.

Each immigration category has its requirements and timelines, making it essential to consult immigration authorities or legal experts for guidance.

Successful immigration to the U.S. from Ghana can result in a Lawful Permanent Resident qualification, work authorisation, and the opportunity to build a new life in the United States.

Page Contents

• Overview of Immigrating to the US
• US Visa Types Requirements
• Processing Times for US Visa Categories
• Tips for Tracking Visa Application Status
• Documents Needed to Immigrate to the US From Ghana
• Costs for Different Visa Categories
• US Immigration Visa Process
• Common Reasons for Visa Application Denials
• How Can Total Law Help?
• FAQs

Monitoring your visa application status can provide peace of mind and help you prepare for your move. These include:

The Consular Electronic Application Center allows you to check the status of your visa application online with your case number.

You can also contact the US Embassy or Consulate in Ghana for updates on your application status. Many consulates offer email notification services to keep applicants informed about their visa status and any changes in processing times.

A number of documents need to be submitted alongside an application. Requested documentation includes:

• Valid passport with at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in the US.
• Completed visa application forms for your chosen visa category
• Recent passport photos
• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates (if applicable).
• Divorce or death certificates (if applicable).
• Academic transcripts and certificates (if applicable)
• For Employment-Based Visas, provide a copy of the job offer letter and labour certification (if applicable).
• Bank statements demonstrating your financial ability to support yourself and your family members during your stay in the US ($6000-10000$ minimum). Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) if you have a US-based sponsor.
• A police clearance certificate from the Ghana Police Service or relevant authorities.

Immigration authorities rely heavily on the information provided in immigration applications to make decisions. Accurate and complete paperwork increases the likelihood of your application being approved and processed promptly.

Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can lead to processing delays. Any errors or missing information can result in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which can significantly prolong the application process.

Providing false or misleading information on immigration forms can have serious legal consequences, including visa denials, deportation, or even being barred from reentering the US.

Reach out to Total Law for advice on the paperwork needed when immigrating to the US from Ghana. Our team can provide support in ensuring your visa application is accompanied with the correct evidence for a successful outcome.

The costs associated with each visa category can vary significantly. These include:

• The visa application fee for Family-Sponsored Visas generally ranges from $325 to $535, depending on the specific visa type.
• Employment-Based Visa application fees can vary widely, usually $345. For example, H-1B visa fees may include a base filing fee, ACWIA fee, and more, totalling approximately $2,500.
• The visa application fee for Student Visas is typically $160. However, the SEVIS fee can range from $200 to $350, depending on your level of study.
• DV lottery winners are responsible for paying the visa application fee ($330), but there is no specific DV visa issuance fee.

Some visa categories may require an additional issuance fee, especially for certain Employment-Based Visas. For certain Family-Sponsored Visas, the US-based sponsor may need to pay an affidavit of support fee ($120).

Every visa category typically requires payment of a non-refundable visa application fee. The fee amount can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Immigrating to the US involves several steps to ensure you have a straightforward experience in moving to the US. In particular, you should ensure that you are applying for the most suitable immigration category based on your plans and that you meet the criteria.

If you are unclear about the most appropriate pathway then reach out to a immigration expert before proceeding otherwise it could lead to lengthy delays and additional costs.

You will need to ensure you have the necessary documentation and that it is accurate, complete and translated if necessary. Then you will need to complete the required forms and submit the visa processing fees.

Depending on the visa route you have applied for, you may also need to attend an interview at the Us Embassy or Consulate in Ghana.

You should not book any travel arrangements to the US, until your visa has been approved and you should be clear what the restrictions of the visa are including entry and exit dates.

Our professional legal advisers are experienced in preparing and submitting immigration applications, petitions, and supporting documentation. We ensure that paperwork is complete, accurate, and filed within deadlines, reducing the risk of application denials or delays.

Visa application denials can be disheartening, but understanding the common reasons can help you avoid pitfalls. Some typical grounds for denial include:

• Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
• Failure to meet eligibility criteria, such as income requirements for the Affidavit of Support.
• Lack of strong ties to Ghana or doubts about the intent to return.
• Criminal records or other legal issues.
• Health-related concerns.

If an immigration application is denied or if you’re facing removal (deportation) proceedings, our immigration lawyers can provide legal representation. We can file appeals and present cases before immigration judges to argue for favourable outcomes.