Are you a Ghanaian citizen planning to start a new chapter of your life in the United States? The immigration process can seem complicated, but with the right guidance, it can be much easier. Law and Visas is here to assist you every step of the way, whether you’re applying for a visa to join a spouse, marry your fiancé, or bring your children along with you.
This guide covers the main visa options available for Ghanaians, important embassy details, and considerations unique to applicants from Ghana.
Choosing the Right Visa
Finding the right visa depends on your circumstances. Whether you’re joining your spouse, reuniting with children, or pursuing your fiancé, there’s an option for you. Here’s an overview of the primary visas for Ghanaians:
Marriage-Based Green Card
If you’re already married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or if you plan to marry soon, a marriage-based green card is an ideal option. This visa allows you to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- How It Works:
- The sponsoring U.S. spouse submits a petition (Form I-130) on behalf of the Ghanaian spouse.
- Once approved, the Ghanaian spouse applies for an immigrant visa or adjusts their status if already in the U.S.
- Key Details for Ghanaians:
- The process includes medical exams, biometric appointments, and an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Accra.
- Processing times and costs vary depending on whether the sponsoring spouse is a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
Law and Visas helps you stay on track by ensuring all paperwork is complete and submitted correctly, avoiding delays.
K-1 Fiancé Visa
If you’re engaged to a U.S. citizen and want to marry in the U.S., the K-1 fiancé visa is your best option. This visa lets you enter the U.S. to marry your fiancé within 90 days and then apply for a green card.
- Application Steps:
- The U.S. citizen fiancé files Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé) with USCIS.
- Once approved, the Ghanaian partner applies for the K-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy in Accra.
- After marriage, you’ll apply for adjustment of status to get your green card.
- Important Notes for Ghanaian Couples:
- Be sure you’re not already married, even under customary law. (More details below in “Special Considerations.”)
- Processing times and costs include application fees, medical exams, and travel expenses.
With Law and Visas, you’ll have a trusted partner to guide you through every step of the K-1 process.
K-2 Visa for Children
Are you planning to bring your children with you? If you’re applying for a K-1 visa, your unmarried children under the age of 21 may qualify for the K-2 visa.
- How It Works:
- The K-2 visa application is submitted alongside the parent’s K-1 application.
- Once approved, children can immigrate with their parent and later apply for a green card.
Law and Visas ensures your children’s applications are included and properly prepared, with no extra fees for their K-2 visas.
IR-2 Visa for Children
If you’re a U.S. citizen and your child is living in Ghana, the IR-2 visa allows them to join you in the U.S. and receive a green card.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- The child must be under 21 and unmarried.
- Documentation proving the parent-child relationship is essential.
Law and Visas can help you prepare the necessary paperwork and streamline the process.
Special Considerations for Ghanaian Applicants
Marriage and K-1 Visa Eligibility
In Ghana, many marriages are performed under customary law, which can affect your eligibility for a K-1 visa.
- Key Points:
- Under Ghanaian law, once a “bride price” is paid as part of an engagement ceremony, the marriage is considered legal, even if it hasn’t been registered with the government.
- Couples who have undergone a traditional marriage are not eligible for the K-1 fiancé visa. Instead, they must apply for a marriage-based green card.
If you’re unsure about your marital status under Ghanaian law, Law and Visas can provide clarity and guide you to the correct visa option.
Submitting Your Application
All immigrant visa applications for Ghanaians are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Accra.
- Address:
No. 24, Fourth Circular Rd., Cantonments, Accra
P.O. Box GP 2288
Accra, Ghana - Contact Information:
Phone: +233 (0) 30 274 1000
The embassy handles visa interviews, document reviews, and final decisions on applications.
Why Choose Law and Visas?
Immigrating to the U.S. is a significant step, and we understand how important it is to get everything right. Here’s how Law and Visas helps you succeed:
- Step-by-Step Guidance: From selecting the right visa to preparing for your interview, we’re with you every step of the way.
- Document Review: Avoid delays by ensuring all your documents meet U.S. immigration standards.
- Dedicated Support: Our team is here to answer your questions and address your concerns.
With over 70,000 families helped in the last decade, Law and Visas has the experience you can trust.
Start Your Immigration Journey Today
Moving from Ghana to the U.S. doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re reuniting with loved ones or starting a new life, Law and Visas is here to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Contact us today to learn more about your visa options and take the first step toward your future in the United States.
