Visa Guide - Visit Ghana Guide

Visa Information

Planning a trip to Ghana? Find out whether you need a visa and how to apply.

Visa Types

If you’re planning a visit to Ghana, there are various visa options to suit different travel needs. Your eligibility will depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Below are the main types of visas available:

1. Single-Entry Tourist Visa

Valid for 30 or 60 days
Suitable for tourists visiting Ghana for leisure or sightseeing
Can be extended through the Ghana Immigration Service

2. Multiple-Entry Visa

Available for 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year
Ideal for frequent travelers who need to enter and exit Ghana multiple times

3. Business Visa

Issued for business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, and trade engagements
Can be single or multiple-entry, depending on the applicant’s needs

4. Transit Visa

Available for travelers passing through Ghana to another destination
Typically valid for 48 to 96 hours

5. Study Visa (Student Visa)

Issued to foreigners enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Ghana
Typically valid for one year and renewable based on the duration of the study program
Requires proof of admission, financial means, and medical clearance

6. Work Visa & Residence Permit

Foreigners seeking employment in Ghana must first obtain a work permit from the Ghana Immigration Service
After securing a work permit, they must apply for a residence permit to stay in Ghana legally
Work permits are typically valid for one year and renewable
Requires an employment contract, employer sponsorship, and other relevant documents

7. Visa on Arrival

Available for travelers from countries without a Ghanaian embassy or consulate
Must be pre-approved by Ghana Immigration Service before arrival

8. ECOWAS Nationals (Visa-Free Entry)

Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries do not require a visa to enter Ghana for short stays

9. eVisa (Upcoming)

Ghana is working on an electronic visa (eVisa) system for simplified online applications

Visa Requirements & Application Process

Each visa type has specific document requirements. Below are some commonly required documents when applying for a Ghanaian visa:

General Visa Requirements

A recent passport-sized photograph
A passport or travel document, valid for at least six months
Proof of valid health insurance (if required)
A national identity card (for certain nationalities)
A travel itinerary or return ticket
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a host)
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Ghana

Additional Requirements Based on Visa Type

Transit Visa: A confirmed onward travel ticket within 96 hours of arrival in Ghana
Business Visa: Invitation letter from a Ghanaian company or business partner
Study Visa: Letter of admission from a recognized educational institution in Ghana
Work Visa: Approved work permit, employment contract, and sponsorship details
Visa on Arrival: Pre-approval from the Ghana Immigration Service

Application Process

Once you have all required documents, you can apply for a Ghanaian visa through:

The Ghana Immigration Service’s official website (for select visa types)
The nearest Ghanaian embassy or consulate
Authorized visa agencies or travel agents

Processing Time

Visa processing times vary depending on the type of visa and application method, but standard processing typically takes 48 hours to 10 working days.

For the most up-to-date visa requirements and application details, visit the Ghana Immigration Service’s official website or check with your nearest Ghanaian embassy.