Ghana Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Requires a mandatory Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for entry.
- Available as Single Entry or Multiple Entry (up to 12 months).
- Most applications require a formal invitation letter or hotel booking.
- Processing typically takes 10-15 business days for standard service.
- Standard and Expedited (Express) processing options are available.
- Mandatory for most non-ECOWAS citizens visiting for leisure.
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
Processing time
10-15 working days
Standard processing is usually 10-15 working days, but express services are available at most consulates for an additional fee.
Estimated cost
$60 - $200 (varies by nationality)
- Single Entry Standard Fee$60 - $100
- Multiple Entry Standard Fee$100 - $200
- Expedited Processing Surcharge$50 - $100
Requirements
- Applicant must hold a passport valid for at least six months.
- At least two blank visa pages must be available in the passport.
- Completion of the official online or manual application form.
- The applicant must not have any travel bans or criminal history in Ghana.
- Confirmed return or onward flight tickets.
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay.
- Provision of a physical address in Ghana (hotel or residential).
- A letter of invitation if staying with a resident or citizen.
- Payment of the non-refundable visa application fee.
- Submission of recent passport photographs that meet biometric standards.
Documents you'll need
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Completed and signed visa application form
- Proof of hotel reservation or invitation letter with host ID
- Copy of return flight itinerary or airline ticket
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (International Certificate of Vaccination)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements or payslips)
- Color copy of the passport bio-data page
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Locate your Embassy
Identify the Ghanaian embassy or consulate responsible for your jurisdiction and check if they use an online portal or manual forms.
- 2
Fill the Application Form
Complete the visa application form accurately, ensuring all contact details for your references in Ghana are correct.
- 3
Prepare Your Documents
Gather your passport, photos, flight itinerary, hotel booking, and the crucial Yellow Fever certificate.
- 4
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the required visa fee through the embassy's preferred method (credit card, postal order, or bank transfer).
- 5
Submit Your Application
Mail your application package or attend an in-person appointment if biometric data is required by your specific consulate.
- 6
Await Processing
Wait for the processing period and track your application status if the embassy provides a tracking number.
- 7
Receive Your Visa
Once approved, collect your passport or receive it via secure mail and verify that the visa dates match your travel plans.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your host's ID copy is clear; blurred copies often lead to delays.
- Double-check that your Yellow Fever certificate is valid for the duration of your trip.
- Book 'refundable' flights and accommodation until your visa is officially granted.
- Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended departure date.
- Ensure your passport photos are taken against a plain white background with no glasses.
- Label your return envelope clearly if you are applying via mail to ensure your passport is returned safely.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.