How long does it take to get a visa to Ghana? This is something you should have in mind before you decide whether you want to apply for a Ghanaian visa or not. Applying for a visa to travel to Ghana is something you should plan for in advance; otherwise, your plans may unravel if the visa is not released on time. This page contains information about the Ghana visa application process, the processing timeline, and the document requirements.
Who Needs A Visa To Ghana?
Citizens from countries not on the visa waiver list require visas to enter Ghana for whatever purpose. Ghana is situated in West Africa and is a founding member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Citizens of ECOWAS enjoy visa waivers so they can freely enter and exit member nations, including Ghana, without a visa. Their citizenship allows them to enter Ghana with only their passports, and they can stay for a maximum period of 90 days.
Citizens of some Caribbean island nations also enjoy the visa-free status, but other nationals require a visa to enter Ghana.
How Long Does it Take To Get A Visa To Ghana?
The length of time before your visa is released depends on several factors. First is the type of visa you apply for. Some visas require extensive background checks before being granted, so they take longer. Secondly, the volume of visa applications when you submit yours will determine how quickly your application is processed.
Be prepared to wait 15-20 business days to acquire the visa. The visa may be ready in 7 working days if you apply for an expedited process. To avoid delays, we recommend submitting your application at least 1 month before the day you plan to travel.
Types of Ghana Visas?
There are more than a few different visa types, but the most common ones visa applicants can apply for are here. Note that visas are tied to the purpose of the visit.
Tourist Visa: This one is for tourists who wish to spend time in the West African nation. Tourist visas are valid for 180 days and allow the holder to stay in the country for up to 90 days maximum.
Business Visa: This single entry visa is for business-related activities. Holders can use it to visit the country for meetings, signing contracts, events, and other commercial activities. It is also a short-term visa.
Work Visa: Work visas are strictly for foreigners employed in Ghana. The visa qualifies the holder for a work permit so they can work in any part of the country.
Transit Visa: Foreigners who wish to make brief stops in Ghana before they continue their journey to their final destinations can use a Transit visa. It is valid for only a few days and expires immediately after the holder departs the country.
Study Visa: This one is for international students who wish to study in Ghana. Study visas are valid for as long as it will take for the student to complete the course.
Ghana Visa Processing Fee
The visa processing fee varies depending on the visa you are applying for. The average visa fee is $60, but some visas may cost up to $200 as a processing fee. The fee must be paid before you can submit your application.
Ghana Visa Validity
The average shirt term Ghana visa is valid for 3 months, but some can last for as long as 6 months. For long-term visas like Study and work visas, the validity can last for as long as 4 years or more.
Ghana Visa Document Requirements
Here are the documents you must provide when applying for a Ghana visa.
Valid Passport: You will need to provide a valid passport to apply for the visa. Only passports with at least 6 months of validity will be accepted. The passport should also have at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.
Application Form: The visa application form should contain the correct personal details as they appear in your documents.
Photos: 2 recent Photographs taken not later than 6 months ago should be used. The photos should be in colored form and taken on a white background.
Cover Letter: A cover letter addressed to the Ghana High Commission stating your purpose for wishing to visit Ghana.
Invitation Letter: An invitation letter is required if you are invited by a Ghanaian resident. The letter should state their contact address and other vital details.
Medical Insurance: Medical travel insurance is required to cover potential medical expenses.
Covid-19 Certificate: The government of Ghana requires all visitors to show a Covid vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 PCR test result.
Now that you know how long does it take to get a visa to Ghana will depend on the type of visa you apply for. Just make sure the documents you submit to the Ghana High Commission are valid.