Important Note
Understanding Ghana’s Visa on Arrival
Ghana’s Visa on Arrival is not a walk-in service. It requires prior approval from the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) before you travel. Your host or sponsor in Ghana must apply on your behalf. Upon approval, you will receive a visa stamp upon landing at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for a Visa on Arrival if:
- You are a citizen of a country without a Ghanaian embassy or consulate.
- You have an urgent need to travel for business, conferences, or family emergencies.
- You are invited by a registered Ghanaian entity or citizen (your sponsor) who will handle the application.
Required Documents & Information
Your sponsor in Ghana must submit a complete application packet to the Ghana Immigration
Service Headquarters. Here’s what’s needed:
Formal Application Letter
_____________
Addressed to The Director of Immigration, Ghana Immigration Service, Accra.
The letter must detail:
- Your full name and passport number.
- The purpose and duration of your visit.
- Your accommodation address in Ghana.
Sponsor’s Documents
- Valid Ghanaian ID (if an individual) or business registration documents (if a company).
- Payment receipt for the visa processing fee.
Traveller’s Documents (Copies/Scans)
- Passport bio-data page (must be valid for at least 6 months).
- Round-trip flight itinerary or e-ticket.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host's address).
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay.
- International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Fever Card) - Mandatory.
Traveller’s Documents (Copies/Scans)
- Passport bio-data page (must be valid for at least 6 months).
- Round-trip flight itinerary or e-ticket.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host's address).
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay.
- International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Fever Card) - Mandatory.
Fees & Processing Timeline
| Visa Type | Validity | Standard Fee | Standard Processing |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Single Entry |
30 Days |
USD 300 |
3-5 Working Days |
|
Express Service |
30 Days |
1-2 Working Days |
Higher Fees Apply |
Step By Step Application Process
Phase 1: Pre-Approval (Before Travel)
- Sponsor Applies: Your host in Ghana compiles all required documents and submits the application to the GIS Headquarters in Accra (Cantonments).
- GIS Review: The Immigration Service reviews the application. If approved, they issue an "Approval Letter for Visa on Arrival."
- Receive Approval Letter: This critical letter is sent to both you (the traveller) and the immigration desk at Kotoka International Airport.
Phase 2 : Travel & Arrival
Travel to Ghana (Carry These Documents)
- Printed copy of the GIS Approval Letter.
- Valid passport.
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
- Return/onward flight ticket.
Obtain a visa at the airport: Upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport:
- Present your approval letter and documents to the immigration officer at the dedicated Visa on Arrival desk.
- Complete any additional forms and pay the final visa fee if required.
- Receive a 30-day single-entry visa stamped in your passport.
Travel to Ghana (Carry These Documents)
- Printed copy of the GIS Approval Letter.
- Valid passport.
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
- Return/onward flight ticket.
Obtain a visa at the airport: Upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport:
- Present your approval letter and documents to the immigration officer at the dedicated Visa on Arrival desk.
- Complete any additional forms and pay the final visa fee if required.
- Receive a 30-day single-entry visa stamped in your passport.
After You Arrive
- The standard Visa on Arrival is valid for a 30-day stay.
- If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a Visa Extension or a Residence Permit at the Ghana Immigration Service office before your initial visa expires.
Key Points & Common Mistakes
Do These (best practices)
- DO: Ensure your host applies well in advance of your travel date.
- DO: Carry your original approval letter and Yellow Fever card with you when you fly.
- DO: Verify all document details are correct before submission.
Avoid These (common mistakes)
- DON'T: Book flights without the GIS approval letter. Airlines will likely deny boarding without it.
- DON'T: Assume you can get a visa by simply arriving at the airport. Pre-approval is mandatory.
- DON'T: Submit incomplete or incorrect documentation, as this will cause delays or denial.
Final Advice
- Ghana’s Visa on Arrival process is designed for convenience but relies on careful preparation and a reliable local sponsor. By ensuring the pre-approval application is complete and accurate, you can enjoy a seamless journey to Ghana.
Why Choose White Sand Travel Consult?
- Local Experts: Based in Accra, we navigate Ghana Immigration procedures daily.
- Full Sponsorship: We act as your official local host, a mandatory requirement for the Visa on Arrival.
- Hassle-Free Process: We manage the entire application, document checks, and submission to GIS on your behalf.
- Peace of Mind: Travel with confidence, knowing your pre-approval letter is secured and verified.
- Fast & Reliable: We expedite the approval process with direct channels, avoiding common delays.
