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Visa for Ghana (2025)

Visa for Ghana (2025)

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor. You can confirm official guidance through Our Ghana Visa Guidance.

Foreign nationals travelling to Ghana must obtain the correct visa before arrival unless exempt under ECOWAS or bilateral agreements.
This guide provides an overview of the main visa types available in 2025, including tourist, business, work, and electronic (eVisa) options,
along with basic requirements and validity periods.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Ghana?

A visa is required for most travellers entering Ghana.
Exemptions apply to citizens of ECOWAS countries (such as Nigeria, Togo, and Sierra Leone), as well as certain diplomatic passport holders.
Travellers should confirm their visa status before booking flights or accommodation.

Available Visa Types (2025)

Ghana offers several types of visas depending on the traveller’s purpose of visit:

  • Visitor Visa: For tourism, family visits, or private travel. See
    Visitor Visa Requirements (2025).
  • Business Visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or trade events.
  • Transit Visa: For short layovers of up to 48 hours en route to another destination.
  • Student Visa: For enrolling in a recognised educational institution in Ghana.
  • Work Visa / Residence Permit: For long-term employment authorised by the Ghana Immigration Service.
  • eVisa (Electronic Visa): Online application and approval for eligible nationalities.
    See eVisa Ghana Application (2025).

General Visa Requirements

All applicants, regardless of visa category, must provide the following:

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 1 blank page).
  • Completed and signed visa application form.
  • Two recent passport photos (white background, 45mm x 35mm).
  • Proof of accommodation or host invitation letter.
  • Evidence of funds (bank statements or payslips).
  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
  • Visa fee payment receipt.

Visa Validity Periods

  • Single Entry Visa: Valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue.
  • Multiple Entry Visa: Valid for 6 or 12 months, depending on approval.
  • Transit Visa: Valid for up to 48 hours.
  • Work/Residence Visa: Typically valid for 1 year (renewable).

Application Methods

  • Online (eVisa): Apply via the official Ghana eVisa system.
  • In Person: Apply through the Ghana High Commission or an authorised Visa Application Centre (VAC).
  • By Mail (select embassies): Some missions allow postal submissions with prepaid return envelopes.

Visa Processing Times (Average)

  • Standard applications: 5–10 working days.
  • Express applications: 1–3 working days (subject to extra fee).
  • Work and study visas: 15–20 working days (due to verification).

Extending Your Visa

Visa extensions can be requested through the Ghana Immigration Service before expiry.
Extensions are generally granted for an additional 30–90 days.
See Extend or Reapply for a Ghana Visa (2025) for full details.

Fees & Payment

Visa fees vary based on type and duration.
See Ghana Visa Fees (2025) for current rates and accepted payment methods.

Important Notes for Travellers

  • Visa approval does not guarantee entry; immigration officers may deny entry at the border if requirements are not met.
  • Visitors must leave Ghana before their visa expires or apply for an extension.
  • Overstaying can result in fines or entry bans.
  • Always carry a copy of your passport and visa during your stay.

Related Guidance

People Also Asked

Do I need a visa to travel to Ghana?
Yes. Most travellers require a visa unless they are from ECOWAS countries or hold diplomatic passports with exemptions.

How long does it take to get a Ghana visa?
Standard applications are processed within 5–10 working days, depending on the type and location.

Can I apply for a Ghana visa online?
Yes. The Ghana eVisa system allows eligible applicants to complete the entire process online.

How long is a Ghana visa valid?
Single-entry visas are valid for 90 days; multiple-entry visas for 6–12 months.

Can I extend my Ghana visa while in the country?
Yes. Extensions can be requested through the Ghana Immigration Service before your visa expires.

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: December 2025.

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