Visa Requirements for Traveling to Ghana

Before you head to Ghana to dive into the calming waters and shamelessly enjoy delicious local dishes, just one thing stands in your way – obtaining a tourist visa.

Depending on your nationality, applying for a visa to Ghana can be a tedious process, but it’s a crucial step to enter the country. The rules vary from country to country, so it’s wise to check the latest requirements with your local Ghanaian embassy or the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

Visa-Free Travel for Certain Nationalities

Nationals of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which includes most of Ghana’s close neighbors, can visit Ghana without a visa for 90 days. Moreover, citizens from Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mauritius can visit without a visa for up to 60 days.

African Union Citizens and Visa on Arrival

Citizens from African Union member countries not part of ECOWAS, including South Africa and various North African nations, can obtain a visa on arrival valid for 30 days after paying the required fee, usually around US$150. Check the full list of member countries on the African Union website.

Requirements for Obtaining a Tourist Visa

Visitors not granted visa-free access must apply for a tourist visa prior to traveling to Ghana. To apply, you will need:

• A passport valid for at least six months
• Proof of a yellow fever vaccination
• A copy of your return ticket or travel itinerary
• An invitation or reference letter (from your accommodation in Ghana)
• Passport photographs taken no more than three months before submission

Visa requirements can vary, hence checking with your local embassy for specific details is advisable. The visa cost typically ranges around US$60 for a single-entry visa valid for 90 days, while a multiple-entry visa valid for six months usually costs about US$100. First-time visitors often choose a single-entry visa; however, if you plan to visit other countries in the region as well, a multiple-entry visa could save you time and hassle.

Extending Your Tourist Visa in Ghana

Visitors can extend their stay in Ghana by visiting local immigration offices located throughout the country, including in major cities like Takoradi, Paga, Koforidua, and Cape Coast. It is advisable to visit these offices as you approach your visa expiration date, as reliable information can be difficult to obtain by phone or online.

The current requirements for extending a visa can be obtained from the Ghana Immigration Service website. You’ll need to complete the required forms and provide:

• Two current passport-sized photographs
• A letter stating your reason for the extension request if you plan to stay for more than three months
• A valid airline return ticket
• A valid passport

Additionally, there will be a fee for the extension.

Work Visas in Ghana

Unfortunately, Ghana does not offer working holiday visas. Visitors wishing to work in the country must secure a job offer from a local company and navigate the complex requirements set by the Ghana Immigration Service for obtaining a work permit. Work permits are usually granted only to individuals with specialized skills that are scarce in Ghana.

Conclusion

Before embarking on your journey to Ghana, make sure to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements and have all necessary documentation ready. Therefore, adequately preparing for your trip will ensure a smooth entry into this vibrant West African country.

This article was first published on May 5, 2022, and updated on April 6, 2023.