Whether you’re planning a leisurely vacation, embarking on a business venture, or considering relocation, understanding the Ghana visa application requirements is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the intricacies of obtaining the necessary permits and visas to ensure your journey to Ghana is seamless and stress-free.
The Basics: Types of Visas in Ghana
Before delving into the intricacies of obtaining visas and permits for Ghana, it’s crucial to understand the various types available. Ghana offers a range of visas tailored to different purposes, including:
Ghana Tourist Visa
This visa will be ideal for you if you intend to stay in Ghana for a short period of time (up to 6 months). It’s typically valid for 30 days, but can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Ghana Immigration Service office. The official fee is $150 per person both for children and adults.
Please note the fee may vary depending on which country you are applying from and the number of months you apply for. We recommend you visit the Ghana Embassy page of your country for exact requirements.
What is required to extend your tourist visa at the Ghana Immigration Office?
- An official letter written by you stating how long you want the extension for and why. Dated and signed.
- 2 passport pictures
- The Ghana Immigration form completed (you can ask for it at the desk). You can view the form here
- Extension fee (50 ghs per month extended)
They will collect your passport and keep it for approximately 2 weeks. You will be given a slip which will state the date you can come and collect your passport.
Please note that tourist visas can be single entry or multiple entry visas.
Single entry: As the name suggests, with this visa once you enter Ghana, you will not be able to enter again if you leave (even if your visa is still valid).
Multiple entry: with this visa you can leave and come back to Ghana 3 times within 6 months before it expires.
Business Visa
If you intend to do business in Ghana, the business visa will be your best choice. The initial validity is 30 days, but like the tourist visa, it can be extended for an extra 30 days. You will need to present a letter from your company/organization as well as an invitation letter from your business associates in Ghana (other documents required please see below). For fees please visit your country’s Ghana embassy website page.
These are the documents you will need to apply for a business visa to Ghana:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity left.
- A completed visa application form, available from Ghanaian embassies or online.
- 2 passport photos
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
- Business, Residential addresses and contact telephone numbers to be provided
- Flight itinerary and hotel reservations.
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Visa application fee.
Visa on arrival/emergency visa
Ghana allows you to obtain a visa on arrival when you land (valid for 30 days). However, that doesn’t mean that you will be guaranteed to board your flight. It is important for you to know that there can be a case where the airline/immigration in your country will not allow you to board your flight without seeing your visa.
Some airlines are penalised if they allow passengers to board flights without proper visa documentation.
In this case we recommend you check this information beforehand with the Ghana Embassy in your country and/or the airline you will be flying with.
Student Visa
If you’re planning to study in Ghana, you’ll need a student visa. This visa is granted to individuals enrolled in educational institutions and public universities in Ghana. Its validity varies based on the duration of the academic program. Documents required are:
- Admission letter
- School fee receipt
- Non-citizen card
- Introductory letter from your school
- 2 passport pictures
- Valid passport
- Statutory fee is GH¢150
Work and Residence Permits
If you intend to work or reside in Ghana for an extended period, you’ll need to secure the appropriate work and residence permits. These permits require additional documentation and approvals from the relevant Ghanaian authorities.
For activities such as opening an account in any Ghanaian bank, doing a business transaction or buying land, you will need a work visa or residence. These normally last for 1 year and will cost around $1,200 ($500 for Ecowas Nationals).
These are the requirements: Complete work & residence permit form
- Application letter on company’s letterhead
- Letter of employment / Employment Contract
- 2 recent passport pictures
- Copy of Non-Citizen ID Card of $120 for new applicant and $60 for renewal.
- Original Passport applicant
- Bio data page of passport of applicant
- Curriculum Vitae / Resume
- Educational and Professional Certificates
- copy of valid National ID for person making the application (Ghanaian) or copy of Passport & residence permit (Foreigner National)
- Police Clearance Report from home country
- Current Company Tax Clearance Certificate (for existing companies)
- Medical Report from Ghana Immigration Service Clinic
- Business Registration Documents
Where to submit your Ghana visa Application Submission?
You can submit your visa application in person at the Ghanaian embassy or consulate in your home country or through a visa processing agency. Ensure that your application is complete and all required documents are attached.
Visa Processing Time
Visa processing times vary depending on your nationality and the embassy’s workload. It’s advisable to apply well in advance (approximately 14 days in advance) of your planned travel date.
Which nationalities DO NOT need a visa to Ghana
Countries that are exempt: ECOWAS member states (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo).
May obtain visa on arrival without approval from airline: Nationals from African Union member states who are not ECOWAS nationals
Tips for a Smooth Visa and Permit Application in Ghana
- Plan Ahead: Start the visa and permit application process well in advance of your intended travel or move to Ghana to avoid last-minute stress.
- Consult with Experts: If you’re uncertain about any aspect of the application process, consider seeking assistance from immigration experts or agencies with experience in Ghanaian visa and permit procedures.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with any changes in Ghana’s immigration policies and requirements, as these can evolve over time.
- Complete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate when submitting your application. Incomplete applications can cause delays or rejections.
- Be Patient: Processing times can vary, so exercise patience and plan accordingly.
- Respect Local Customs: Once in Ghana, respect local customs, laws, and regulations to ensure a positive experience during your stay.
For any other information, please visit the Ghana Immigration Service website.
