Get Your Ghana Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and cultural exploration in the heart of West Africa
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Ghana Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Ghana Immigration Service requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, and yellow fever vaccination certificate. Our visa specialists review every document against Ghana Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection.
3
We submit to Ghana Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted directly to Ghana's official visa processing system. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved Ghana visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Ghanaian immigration along with your passport. Akwaaba — welcome to Ghana, the Gateway to West Africa!
Ghana Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Single entry for tourism and leisure travel
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 48 hours
For connecting through Ghanaian airports
Visa on Arrival
Up to 30 days
Available for eligible nationalities
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Transit Visas
Ghana welcomes visitors from around the world to experience West Africa's most accessible and friendly nation. The country offers several visa options to suit different travel purposes and durations.
Tourist Visa — Single Entry
The standard Ghana tourist visa allows a single entry with stays up to 90 days — perfect for exploring historic sites like Cape Coast Castle, experiencing the vibrant markets of Accra, visiting Kakum National Park's canopy walkway, and immersing yourself in Ashanti culture in Kumasi. This visa type suits most leisure travelers visiting Ghana for the first time. You can engage in tourism activities, visit friends and family, attend cultural festivals, and explore Ghana's rich heritage. Extensions may be possible at Ghana Immigration Service headquarters in Accra.
Transit Visa
For travelers connecting through Kotoka International Airport (ACC) en route to other destinations, Ghana offers a transit visa allowing stays up to 48 hours. This is ideal for passengers who want to exit the airport during long layovers to explore Accra, visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial, or experience Ghanaian hospitality before continuing their journey. If your connection is under 24 hours and you remain airside, a transit visa typically isn't required.
Business & Multiple Entry Visas
Business Visa
The Ghana business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the country. This includes attending business meetings, trade fairs, and conferences; exploring investment opportunities in Ghana's growing economy; establishing trade contacts; conducting market research; and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and can be issued for single or multiple entries. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from a Ghanaian company, your company's registration documents, and a detailed business itinerary.
Multiple Entry Visa
Frequent travelers to Ghana may apply for multiple entry visas valid for 6 months or 1 year. This is particularly useful for business professionals with ongoing projects, those with family connections in Ghana, or visitors who plan to explore Ghana and neighboring West African countries over an extended period. Multiple entry visas provide flexibility for those who need to travel in and out of Ghana regularly.
Visa on Arrival
Ghana offers visa on arrival for citizens of certain countries, allowing stays up to 30 days. African Union passport holders and citizens of select nations can obtain their visa upon landing at Kotoka International Airport. However, pre-arranged visas are recommended for a smoother entry process.
Entry Requirements
Essential Requirements
All Ghana visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Mandatory for all travelers regardless of origin country. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) at immigration. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, or invitation letter from host in Ghana with their contact details and Ghana Card number
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Ghana
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay (bank statements recommended)
ECOWAS Citizens
Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries enjoy visa-free access to Ghana for stays up to 90 days. This includes nationals of Nigeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and other West African nations. ECOWAS citizens need only a valid passport or ECOWAS travel certificate for entry.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Ghana visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra is the main international gateway. Kumasi Airport and Tamale Airport handle some regional flights.
• Land borders: Aflao (Togo border), Elubo (Ivory Coast border), Paga (Burkina Faso border), and other official crossing points
• Seaports: Port of Tema, Port of Takoradi
Processing Times & Application Timing
Standard visa processing takes 3-7 business days, though most applications receive decisions within 3-5 business days. During peak tourist season (December-March for Harmattan and festivals, July-August for summer holidays) and around major events like the Pan-African Historical Theatre Festival (PANAFEST), processing may take slightly longer. We recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Got my Ghana visa in just 4 days! The process was incredibly smooth and the support team answered all my questions about yellow fever requirements. Highly recommend!"
"First time visiting West Africa and was nervous about the visa process. DoVisa made it completely stress-free. Cape Coast Castle was an unforgettable experience!"
"Applied on Tuesday, approved by Friday. The document checklist was super helpful and immigration at Kotoka Airport was smooth with my printed visa."
"Business visa for meetings in Accra sorted quickly. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Professional service throughout."
"Traveled to Ghana for a family reunion. DoVisa processed all our applications together and everyone was approved. The Akwaaba welcome was amazing!"
"Great service overall. Processing took 5 days which was within expectations but customer support kept me updated throughout. Will use again for my next trip!"
"Visited Ghana for PANAFEST and the visa arrived just in time. The cultural experience was incredible and the visa process was hassle-free thanks to DoVisa."
"Applied for my Ghana tourist visa and got approved in 3 days. The Kakum canopy walk was worth every moment of planning. Thank you DoVisa!"
"Smooth application process for my business trip to Tema. Had a small issue with my photo but support helped me fix it quickly. Very responsive team."
"Ghana was on my bucket list for years. DoVisa made the visa process so easy that I could focus on planning my itinerary. Ashanti region was spectacular!"
Ghana Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Ghana?
Ghana offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Single-entry tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for holidays, cultural exploration, visiting family, and general tourism. Transit visa permits stays up to 48 hours for travelers passing through Ghana to another destination. Business visa caters to commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and trade exploration. Multiple-entry visas are available for frequent travelers requiring regular access to Ghana over 6 months or 1 year. Visa on arrival is available for citizens of certain countries and African Union passport holders. The right visa depends on your travel purpose, duration, and nationality.
What is the Ghana eVisa and how does it work?
Ghana has implemented an electronic visa system to streamline the application process for international travelers. The Ghana eVisa allows applicants to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate. After completing the online application, uploading required documents, and paying the visa fee, your application is processed by Ghana Immigration Service. Once approved, you receive your visa electronically via email. You must print the eVisa and present it along with your passport at the port of entry. The eVisa system is available for tourist, business, and transit visa categories, making it convenient for travelers from countries without Ghanaian diplomatic missions nearby.
Who needs a visa to visit Ghana?
Most international travelers require a visa to enter Ghana. Visa required: Citizens of most countries outside Africa need to obtain a visa before travel. This includes nationals from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union countries, Australia, and most Asian nations. Visa-free entry: Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries enjoy visa-free access for stays up to 90 days. This includes Nigeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, Togo, Benin, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, and Guinea-Bissau. Visa on arrival: African Union passport holders and citizens of select countries may obtain a visa upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport. Check your specific nationality requirements before travel.
What documents do I need for a Ghana visa application?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum two blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months); completed application form with accurate travel details; yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for all travelers). Additional requirements by visa type: Tourist visa: Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter from host), round-trip flight itinerary, travel insurance recommended. Business visa: Invitation letter from Ghanaian company on letterhead, employer support letter, company registration documents, detailed business itinerary. All applicants: May be asked for proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately $100/day of stay). Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long does Ghana visa processing take?
Ghana visa processing typically takes 3-7 business days, with most applications receiving decisions within 3-5 business days. Processing times can vary based on several factors: Peak seasons (December-March, July-August, and around major festivals like PANAFEST and Homowo) may experience slightly longer processing. Application completeness significantly impacts speed — applications with clear documents, correct photos, and accurate information process faster. Business visas may take longer due to additional verification of invitation letters and business documentation. Recommendations: Apply at least 2-3 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any additional information requests. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete, reducing the risk of delays.
Is yellow fever vaccination required for Ghana?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers to Ghana, regardless of your country of origin or travel history. Unlike many countries that only require vaccination for travelers from endemic areas, Ghana requires proof of yellow fever vaccination from everyone. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination (the yellow card) at immigration upon arrival. Important details: The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before your arrival in Ghana; the certificate is valid for life (previously it was 10 years, but this changed in 2016); travelers without valid proof of vaccination may be denied entry or required to be vaccinated at the airport. Recommendation: Visit a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip to receive the vaccination and obtain your yellow card. The vaccination protects against yellow fever, which is present in Ghana and other West African countries.
Can I extend my Ghana visa once I arrive?
Yes, Ghana visas can be extended at the Ghana Immigration Service headquarters in Accra or at regional immigration offices. Extension process: Visit the Immigration Service office before your current visa expires; bring your passport, current visa, passport photographs, proof of accommodation for the extended period, and proof of sufficient funds; pay the extension fee. Maximum stay: Tourist visa extensions are generally granted for up to 60 additional days, though this is at the discretion of immigration officials. Important: Apply before your current visa expires — overstaying is a serious offense that can result in fines, detention, and deportation. Business and work purposes: If you need to stay longer for work or business, you may need to apply for a different visa category or work permit rather than a simple extension. Tip: If you know you'll need more than 90 days, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa initially.
Can I work in Ghana with a tourist visa?
No, Ghana tourist visas do not permit employment. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, sightseeing, cultural exploration, visiting friends and family, and attending non-commercial events. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings, conferences, market research, and establishing trade contacts, but not paid employment or receiving salary from a Ghanaian entity. Legal employment requires a Ghana Work Permit, which involves: employer sponsorship by a registered Ghanaian company; proof the position cannot be filled by a Ghanaian citizen; extensive documentation including academic and professional certificates; and immigration fees. The process must be initiated before entering Ghana for work purposes. Volunteer work: Genuine volunteer activities with registered NGOs may be permitted, but any work that could be performed by a Ghanaian requires proper authorization. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans.
Do I need to print my Ghana visa?
Yes, you must print your Ghana eVisa and present it at immigration. Upon visa approval, you will receive a PDF document via email. Printing requirements: Print the visa clearly on A4 paper in color if possible (black and white is acceptable if all details are legible); ensure the QR code and all text are clearly visible; carry multiple copies in case one gets damaged during travel. At the airport: Present your printed visa along with your valid passport and yellow fever vaccination certificate at the immigration counter. The immigration officer will verify your visa details and stamp your passport. Keep safe: Store your printed visa with your passport throughout your trip — you may need to present it at hotels for registration purposes or if stopped for identity verification. Digital backup: While a printed copy is required, also save the PDF on your phone as a backup reference.
What happens if my Ghana visa application is rejected?
Ghana visa rejections can occur but are relatively uncommon with proper documentation. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete or unclear documentation; passport validity issues; photos not meeting specifications; missing yellow fever certificate; previous immigration violations; concerns about purpose of visit; missing proof of accommodation or return travel; insufficient financial evidence. If rejected: You'll receive notification stating the application was unsuccessful. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues. There's no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered on their own merit. Prevention: Ensure documents are complete and clear before submission; verify passport validity requirements; ensure yellow fever vaccination is current; provide comprehensive travel plans including accommodation and return flights; include proof of funds. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
When is the best time to visit Ghana?
Ghana can be visited year-round, but timing affects your experience. November-March (Dry Season/Harmattan): This is the most popular tourist season with minimal rainfall, warm temperatures, and the dusty Harmattan winds from the Sahara. Ideal for beach visits, wildlife viewing, and outdoor exploration. December-January is peak season with festivals and higher prices. April-June (Rainy Season): The long rains bring lush green landscapes. Rain typically falls in heavy afternoon showers, leaving mornings clear. Fewer tourists mean lower prices and less crowded attractions. July-August (Short Dry Season): Brief respite from rains, coinciding with summer holidays. Good time for visits with moderate tourist numbers. September-October (Short Rains): Another wet period with occasional showers. Festival timing: PANAFEST (July-August), Homowo Festival (August-September), and Aboakyir Festival (May) offer unique cultural experiences. Wildlife: Mole National Park is best visited during dry season (November-April) when animals gather at water sources.
Do children need their own Ghana visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own Ghana visa. There are no family visas or provisions for children traveling on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name (not included in parent's passport) with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; completed application with child's details; yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for children over 9 months old); parental/guardian consent documentation if traveling with only one parent or without parents. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own through the same application process. Each child's visa is processed and issued separately. Fees: Children pay the same visa fees as adults — there are no reduced rates for minors. Tip: Apply for all family members together to ensure visas are processed at the same pace. DoVisa allows group applications for families traveling together.
Is Ghana safe for tourists?
Ghana is generally considered one of the safest countries in West Africa for tourists, with a stable democracy and welcoming population. Safe areas: Accra (tourist areas, business districts), Cape Coast, Elmina, Kumasi, Kakum National Park, the Volta Region, and coastal areas. These areas have reasonable security infrastructure. General safety: Violent crime against tourists is rare, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and markets. Use common sense precautions as you would in any unfamiliar city. Practical advice: Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps; avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas; keep valuables secure; avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics; use hotel safes; ensure comprehensive travel insurance. Health considerations: Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended; drink bottled water; ensure yellow fever and other routine vaccinations are current; carry basic medications. Political stability: Ghana has a strong democratic tradition with peaceful power transitions, making it a stable destination for travelers.
What currency should I bring to Ghana and can I use cards?
Ghana's official currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Cash recommendations: US Dollars and Euros can be exchanged at banks and forex bureaus in major cities; bring newer bills in good condition as damaged notes may be rejected; exchange only at official bureaus (avoid street changers); carry Cedis for everyday purchases, transportation, and smaller vendors. Card acceptance: Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and shopping malls in Accra; however, cash is king in Ghana — many businesses, markets, and smaller establishments are cash-only; some establishments add card processing fees. ATMs: Available in major cities; international cards generally work at Ecobank, Stanbic, Standard Chartered, and other major banks; daily withdrawal limits vary; notify your bank of travel plans to prevent fraud blocks. Mobile money: MTN Mobile Money is widely used by locals but less relevant for tourists without local phone numbers. Tip: Bring sufficient US Dollars as backup and exchange to Cedis upon arrival.
Can I use my Ghana visa to visit other West African countries?
A standard Ghana visa is only valid for Ghana — you cannot use it to enter other countries. However, options exist for regional travel. ECOWAS free movement: If you're a citizen of an ECOWAS member state, you can travel freely between Ghana and other ECOWAS countries without additional visas. Separate visas: Travelers from outside the region need separate visas for each West African country — Togo, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Benin, and others have independent visa systems. Plan and apply for each country separately. Practical planning: Ghana shares borders with Togo (east), Ivory Coast (west), and Burkina Faso (north). Popular multi-country itineraries include Ghana-Togo-Benin for West African exploration. Border crossings: Main crossings include Aflao (Ghana-Togo), Elubo (Ghana-Ivory Coast), and Paga (Ghana-Burkina Faso). Each crossing requires appropriate visa documentation for the destination country. Some neighboring countries offer visa on arrival for certain nationalities. Research specific requirements for your planned route.
Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through Ghana?
Transit visa requirements depend on your specific circumstances. No visa required: If your layover is under 24 hours, you remain airside (don't exit through immigration), and you're connecting to an international flight at Kotoka International Airport, you typically don't need a transit visa. Transit visa required: If you want to exit the airport during a layover (visit Accra, rest at a hotel), you need a transit visa allowing stays up to 48 hours. Also required if your layover exceeds 24 hours or you need to exit the transit area for any reason. Application process: Apply through DoVisa specifying transit visa, providing connecting flight details and reason for exiting the airport. Cost: Transit visas are typically cheaper than full tourist visas. Yellow fever: Even for transit, you must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Recommendation: If uncertain, apply for a transit visa to avoid complications. Immigration officers make final determinations, and having documentation prevents potential issues.
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