EB-3 Visa Cost for Ghanaians in 2025: What to Budget

You've chosen to apply for an EB-3 employment-based green card and you know you have the documents and job offer in the U.S. that are sufficient for your application? But there is one more aspect to preparation here that most people in Ghana aren't factoring in and that's budgeting for this visa.

In 2025, the EB-3 visa remains one of the most affordable paths to U.S. residency compared to investment routes like EB-5, however, there are many other significant costs that are associated with this move from relocation fees to other initial living expenses and much more. Understanding the full range of costs both in U.S. and in Ghana, will help you avoid surprises and move forward with confidence.

What Makes Up the EB-3 Visa Cost?

The EB-3 process includes several official U.S. government fees:

• USCIS Filing Fees – The I-140 petition fee is typically a few hundred dollars, paid by the sponsoring employer or applicant.

• National Visa Center Fees – These cover visa application processing and document review.

• Consular Processing Charges – Paid when you attend your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy.

  
  

While these fees are standardized, they are just one part of the overall cost picture.

Ghana-Specific Costs to Expect

In addition to U.S. government fees, Ghanaians must budget for local expenses:

• Medical Exam Fees – All applicants must complete a medical exam with a panel physician approved by the U.S. Embassy in Accra. Costs vary but are paid directly to the hospital or clinic.

• Police Clearance Certificates – Issued by the Ghana Police Service Criminal Investigations Department (CID). This document confirms you have no disqualifying criminal record.

• Travel to the U.S. Embassy in Accra – For applicants living outside the capital, budget for transport and accommodation when attending your interview.

• Relocation Costs – Once approved, flights to the U.S. for each family member can add up quickly.

Additional Costs Families Should Plan For

Beyond official fees, families often face other significant expenses:

• Legal or Consultant Fees – Many applicants choose to work with trusted immigration consultants like our team at InvestMigrate to guide them through the process. These costs vary by provider but are an important part of avoiding mistakes and further delays to your move to the U.S.

• Housing and Initial Living Expenses in the U.S. – Renting an apartment, setting up utilities, and buying essentials can require thousands of dollars in the first months. Some of these costs are vary widely between the various U.S. states.

• School Enrollment and Education Costs – While children on EB-3 visas qualify as residents for schooling, families should plan ahead for books, supplies, and adjustments.

Budgeting Tips for Ghanaians

Smart planning can make the EB-3 process more manageable:

• Plan in Both GHS and USD – With currency fluctuations, it’s wise to keep savings in dollars where possible.

• Set Aside an Emergency Fund – Unexpected costs, such as document courier services or repeat medical exams, can arise.

• Beware of Unrealistic Promises – If someone offers to secure an EB-3 visa at a price that seems “too good to be true,” it usually is. Transparency is a sign of a trustworthy process.

Conclusion

The EB-3 visa is an investment in your family’s future. While the process comes with costs, from filing fees and medical exams in Accra to relocation expenses, careful budgeting ensures you are prepared every step of the way.

By planning wisely, Ghanaians can approach the EB-3 journey with confidence, knowing they are making a secure and lasting investment in a better life in the United States.