If you're planning to visit Ghana for business, tourism, or to visit family and friends, you will need a visa to enter the country. Fortunately, Ghana offers a convenient and streamlined eVisa application process, which allows eligible foreign nationals to apply for a visa online.
Applying for a Ghana eVisa is a relatively straightforward process, but it's important to follow the steps carefully to ensure your application is successful. The first step is to check your eligibility for a Ghana eVisa, as the requirements vary depending on the purpose of your visit and your nationality.
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, you can visit the Ghana Immigration Service website to begin your application. You will need to fill out an online application form with your personal and travel information, as well as upload supporting documents such as a passport photo, a copy of your passport, and proof of travel arrangements.
After submitting your application, you will need to pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on the type of eVisa you are applying for, so be sure to check the fee schedule on the Ghana Immigration Service website.
Once your application and payment have been processed, you can expect to receive a response within 3-5 business days. If your eVisa application is approved, you will receive an electronic visa that you can print and present to immigration officials upon arrival in Ghana.
It's important to note that not all ports of entry in Ghana accept eVisas, so be sure to check the list of eligible ports on the Ghana Immigration Service website before making travel arrangements.
Preparing for Your Ghana eVisa Application: Required Documents and Information
When applying for a Ghana eVisa, there are certain documents and information that you will need to prepare beforehand. Here are the required documents and information that you should have on hand when applying for a Ghana eVisa:
Passport:
You will need a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Ghana. You will need to scan a copy of your passport’s biographical data page and upload it during the application process.
Passport photograph:
You will need to provide a passport-sized photograph that is taken within the last three months. The photograph must meet specific requirements, such as being taken against a white background, having a clear image of the applicant’s face, and having no headwear or accessories that obscure the face.
Travel itinerary:
You will need to provide your travel itinerary, including your flight details, dates of arrival and departure, and the address of your accommodation in Ghana.
Purpose of travel:
You will need to provide information on the purpose of your trip to Ghana, such as tourism, business, or study.
Accommodation details:
You will need to provide information on where you will be staying in Ghana, such as the name and address of the hotel or other accommodation.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate:
You will need to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination, which is mandatory for entry into Ghana.
Payment method:
You will need to have a valid credit or debit card to pay the application fee online.
It is important to ensure that all the required documents and information are accurate and up-to-date when applying for a Ghana eVisa. Incomplete or incorrect information can delay the processing of your application, or even result in the rejection of your application.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Ghana eVisa Online
Applying for a Ghana eVisa online is a simple and straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:
Step 1: Visit the Ghana eVisa website
Go to the Ghana eVisa website to start your application process.
Step 2: Create an account
Click on the "Create an Account" button and enter your personal information, such as your full name, email address, and phone number. Create a username and password, and then click "Register" to complete the registration process.
Step 3: Fill out the application form
Log in to your account and start filling out the online application form. You will need to provide your personal information, passport details, travel itinerary, purpose of travel, and accommodation details.
Step 4: Upload required documents
Upload a scanned copy of your passport’s biographical data page and a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the specific requirements. You will also need to upload a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Step 5: Pay the application fee
Pay the application fee using a valid credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
Step 6: Submit your application
After completing the application form and paying the fee, review your information to make sure it is accurate and complete. Once you are satisfied, click on the "Submit" button to submit your application.
Step 7: Check application status
After submitting your application, you can check its status by logging in to your account on the Ghana eVisa website. You will receive an email notification when your visa is approved, along with a copy of your eVisa.
Step 8: Print your eVisa
Print a copy of your eVisa and keep it with you when traveling to Ghana. You may also present a digital copy of your eVisa at the point of entry.
That's it! By following these steps, you can apply for a Ghana eVisa online with ease and convenience.
How to follow up on your application status
After submitting your Ghana eVisa application, you may want to check on its status to see if it has been approved or if there are any issues or delays. Here are the steps to follow up on your application status:
Step 1: Go to the Ghana eVisa website
Visit the Ghana eVisa website and log in to your account.
Step 2: Check your application status
Once you are logged in, you will be able to see the status of your application. The status will either be "Pending", "Under Review", "Approved" or "Rejected".
Step 3: Contact the Ghana Immigration Service
If your application has been pending or under review for a prolonged period, you may contact the Ghana Immigration Service through their contact form or email address provided on their website.
Step 4: Provide your application reference number
When contacting the Ghana Immigration Service, provide your application reference number, which you would have received after submitting your application. This will help them to locate your application and provide you with an update on its status.
Step 5: Follow up regularly
Keep checking your application status regularly to ensure that you don't miss any updates or requests for additional information. The processing time for a Ghana eVisa can vary, so it is important to be patient and persistent in following up.
By following these steps, you can easily follow up on your Ghana eVisa application status and ensure that your visa is processed in a timely and efficient manner.
After Receiving Your Ghana eVisa: Entry Requirements and Restrictions
Once you have received your Ghana eVisa, it is important to familiarize yourself with the entry requirements and restrictions for traveling to Ghana. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
Validity:
Your Ghana eVisa is valid for a single entry and allows you to stay in Ghana for up to 60 days. If you need to stay longer, you will need to apply for an extension from the Ghana Immigration Service.
Entry Requirements:
To enter Ghana, you must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining from the date of entry, as well as a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Customs:
When entering Ghana, you will need to declare any items that you are carrying with you, including currency, food, and other goods. Failure to declare items can result in fines or other penalties.
Restrictions:
Ghana has restrictions on certain items, including firearms, ammunition, drugs, and counterfeit goods. Make sure to check the Ghana Customs and Excise website for a complete list of prohibited items.
COVID-19 protocols:
As of March 2023, all travelers entering Ghana must comply with the COVID-19 protocols put in place by the government of Ghana. These protocols include presenting a negative COVID-19 test result obtained within 72 hours of departure, filling out a health declaration form, and undergoing mandatory COVID-19 testing upon arrival.
Security:
Ghana is a relatively safe country, but it is important to take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety. These include avoiding areas that are known to be high-risk, being aware of your surroundings, and keeping your valuables safe.
By keeping these entry requirements and restrictions in mind, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Ghana with your eVisa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Citizens of certain countries need a visa to enter Ghana, and for some of these countries, the visa must be obtained before travel. You can check if you need a visa and if you are eligible for the eVisa by visiting the Ghana Immigration Service website.
You can apply for a Ghana eVisa by visiting the Ghana Immigration Service website and following the step-by-step application process. You will need to provide your personal and travel information, upload a digital passport photo and a copy of your passport biodata page, and pay the application fee.
You will need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining, a digital passport photo, a copy of your passport biodata page, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
The processing time for a Ghana eVisa can vary, but it typically takes between three and five business days. You can check the status of your application online.
A Ghana eVisa is valid for a single entry and allows you to stay in Ghana for up to 60 days.
Yes, you can apply for an extension of your stay from the Ghana Immigration Service.
If your Ghana eVisa application is rejected, you will need to reapply and provide additional or corrected information.
You can contact the Ghana Immigration Service through their contact form or email address provided on their website for assistance with any questions or issues you may have with your Ghana eVisa application