The first option is to submit applications in person at the nearest Ghanaian embassy or consulate to the place of departure. Processing times vary between three to five working days, on average. It is advisable to allow another week, in addition, in case of problems.
Apply Ghana Visitor Visa by Post
Alternatively, send the application by registered post to the nearest embassy or consulate. Ghana embassy web-sites will suggest allowing up to two working weeks for the application to be processed and reposted in return. Allow an extra week to be safe. It is advisable to follow up a postal application by telephone to ensure it has been received and is being processed.
Apply for a Ghana Visitor Visa on Arrival in Ghana
The third way is to obtain a visa upon arrival in Accra at Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport. This option is best for those who, before departure, do not have time or Ghana representation nearby. According to the Ghana Immigration web-site, the Ghana Government: “has introduced this visa policy to cater for visitors/business people who travel at short notice from countries where Ghana has no mission or consulate. The policy authorizes visas to be granted on arrival at the airport or other entry points subject to satisfaction of specific Immigration requirements.”
Certain US airlines may prohibit boarding a flight to Ghana without a visa. Please check with airlines to ensure they will allow boarding without a visa if you intend to obtain a visa on arrival.
Visitor Visa Documentation
The documentation required by the Ghana embassy or consulate in one country, and that required for visas on arrival, may vary slightly, so please check the official Embassies Abroad site and Ghana Immigration. However, in general, tourist visa applications will need the following:
- Valid passport. The expiry date must be more than six months from the date of visa application.
- Completed application forms submitted in duplicate or quadruplicate. These can usually be downloaded from the embassy’s web site or obtained in person.
- Two to four passport size photographs
- An official, signed, Yellow Fever certificate (compulsory for all sub-Saharan African travel)
- Evidence of a return air ticket or onwards air journey from Ghana (bus tickets are not acceptable) from a genuine travel agent or airline.
- Fee (please check the local embassy as they vary)
- And for “visas on arrival”, prepare a letter of support from a local NGO or tourist organisation. If not staying in one location, have the numbers and addresses for hotels handy in case officials request contact details on any application forms.
Single or Multiple-Entry Visa?
A single-entry visa allows a one time entry to Ghana. If departing Ghana, another visitor visa must be applied for before re-entering Ghana. A multiple-entry visa allows coming and going to Ghana as often as needed while the visa is valid.
However, irrespective of the visa type and duration, Ghana immigration will stamp the passport upon arrival in Ghana with a 60 day “permit.” This seems illogical, but this is how the system works. For stays that exceed 60 days an extension of stay must be applied for approximately one week before the 60 day permit expires.
Extending a Stay for Longer Than Sixty Days
Those with a multiple entry visa can leave Ghana before the 60 day permit expires. Upon return their passport will be stamped with a new 60 day permit. Those who do not wish to depart should apply for an “extension of stay” at the nearest regional capital immigration office. As of writing, the fee is 20 Ghana Cedis per additional month, or part thereof, requested.This can be requested for up to two months at a time. Host organisations will assist with this process.
Checklist for a Ghana Visitor Visa:
- Passport is valid for more than six months when applying for the Ghana visitor visa.
- Obtain Yellow Fever vaccination and certificate before applying for the tourist visa
- Obtain supporting letters from local Ghana organisations if needed
- Submit visa application with ample time before the proposed departure date.
Gayle Pescud - Co-founder of G-lish Foundation in Ghana, an award winning non-profit that welcomes volunteers in Africa.
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