Travelers often prefer getting a visa on arrival, and many have reached out to me with inquiries about obtaining one in Ghana. To help reduce the number of weekly emails I receive on this topic, Mrpocu.com has put together a comprehensive guide. In this article, we will discuss how to obtain a Ghana entrance visa or a visa on arrival, the requirements, and important information you should know.
What is a Ghana Entrance Visa or Visa on Arrival?
A Ghana entrance visa is a document issued by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to foreigners who wish to enter or transit through Ghana’s territory. An emergency entry visa, which is usually valid for 30 days, can be obtained upon arrival. To obtain a visa on arrival, the host person or company in Ghana must submit an application on behalf of the visiting foreign citizen to the Comptroller-General of the GIS.
Requirements for Obtaining a Visa on Arrival in Ghana
All visitors to Ghana must possess a valid passport or official travel document to establish their identification. The Ghanaian government recognizes travel documents such as Laisser-Passers and other documents issued by governments or international organizations.
Ghana Travel Restrictions
Ghana is now open to travelers from all over the world. However, prior to entry, you must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result. Many hotels, attractions, and private tours have implemented new health and safety protocols, which should be followed for everyone’s safety. For a comprehensive travel guide to Ghana, refer to our article “The Ultimate Travel Guide to Ghana” to assist you in planning your trip.
How to Obtain a Visa on Arrival in Ghana
Citizens of African Union member states (excluding Morocco) who are not visa-free can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum period of 30 days for a fee of $150, starting from July 1, 2016. This arrangement was initially tested for three months at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport before being expanded to all other country entrance ports.
Citizens of nations without a diplomatic or consular mission in Ghana, who are traveling on short notice, may obtain a visa on arrival if certain conditions are met. Additionally, holders with a copy of pre-arranged approval from immigration are granted a visa on arrival. During December 2019 and January 2020, all travelers to Ghana were able to obtain a visa on arrival as part of Ghana’s Year of Return campaign.
To streamline the process of issuing emergency entry visas, the Ghana Immigration Service has established rules in accordance with regulation 4 of the Immigration Regulations 2001, LI 1691:
1. Processing time: Emergency entry visas are processed within seven (7) working days of application submission.
2. Application letter: A visa application letter must be submitted to the Ghana Immigration Service headquarters in Accra. The application letter should highlight the following details about the guest or applicant:
– Country of origin
– Date of arrival
– Duration of stay
– Purpose of visit (detailed)
– Address of lodging
– Address abroad
– Occupation or profession
– Telephone number (abroad)
– Email address
3. Required documents: The following documents must be attached to the visa application letter:
– Certificate to commence business
– Certificate of incorporation
– Company’s regulations
– Tax clearance certificate
– Audited accounts (if the company has been in existence for 5 years or more)
– Bank statement (if the host is an individual)
– Copy of residence permit (if the host is a non-Ghanaian)
– Bio-data page of the applicant’s passport
– Bio-data page of the signatory’s passport or copy of their identity card
4. Addressing letters: All letters to the Ghana Immigration Service must be addressed to the Comptroller-General, Ghana Immigration Service, Headquarters, Accra.
5. Additional requirements: Travel ticket and proof of stay (if staying in a hotel) should also be provided.
Countries Exempted From Visa on Arrival Fees
The Ghana Immigration Service exempts citizens from the following countries from the visa on arrival fees:
– Rwanda
– Kenya
– Lesotho
– Namibia
– Singapore
– Tanzania
– Trinidad and Tobago
– Uganda
– Zimbabwe
– Seychelles
– Malawi
– Egypt
– Eswatini (Swaziland)
– Botswana
How to Avoid Delays for Visa on Arrival in Ghana
To ensure a smooth and efficient visa on arrival process without any delays, follow these tips:
– Proper documentation: Make sure to have all the required documents ready.
– Attach relevant documents: Attach all necessary documents to your visa application.
– Highlight necessary information: Ensure that all essential information is clearly highlighted in your application letter.
– Submit your application on time: Submit your application well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.
Important Information about Ghana Visas
Except for citizens of ECOWAS countries and nationals of Kenya, Singapore, Egypt, and Trinidad & Tobago, all visitors to Ghana require a visa or entry permit. Nationals of Malawi, Lesotho, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Uganda, and Swaziland are entitled to Gratis visas issued at Ghana Foreign Missions abroad. Holders of diplomatic or service passports from Germany, Cuba, Iran, Brazil, and Hong Kong, as well as official passport holders of AU, UN, and specialized agencies such as The World Bank, African Development Bank, IMF, and WFP, are also exempt from visas.
Processing Time for Visa on Arrival in Ghana
Emergency entry visas are processed within seven (7) working days of application submission. To avoid any delays, ensure that you submit all the required documents accurately and on time. Avoid paying any additional fees to expedite the process, as it is not necessary and could be a scam.
Conclusion
Obtaining a visa on arrival in Ghana is a straightforward process, provided you meet the necessary requirements and have the required documentation. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when visiting Ghana. Remember to plan ahead, submit your application in a timely manner, and adhere to all the necessary protocols and guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip.
