ghana immigration service visa on arrival

Ghana Immigration Service: Visa on Arrival

Travelers visiting Ghana can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) through the Ghana Immigration Service, allowing entry without obtaining a visa in advance. This article outlines the key steps, requirements, and tips to streamline your arrival experience.

Overview

The Visa on Arrival system is designed for visitors who need quick access to Ghana for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. Instead of visiting an embassy before departure, eligible travelers complete the application online and collect their visa upon landing at Kotoka International Airport (ACC).

Eligibility

• Nationals of countries without a Ghanaian Embassy in their territory.
• Passengers with confirmed onward travel within 30 days of arrival.
• Purpose of visit must be tourism, business, official mission, or family visit.
• Valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the date of entry.

Required Documents

1. Scanned bio-data page of your valid passport.
2. Recent passport-sized photograph (JPEG format).
3. Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation letter).
4. Return or onward ticket confirmation.
5. Yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Application Process

1. Visit the official Ghana Immigration Service Visa on Arrival portal.
2. Create an account and complete the online application form.
3. Upload scanned documents and pay the non-refundable processing fee.
4. Receive an approval letter via email within 3–5 business days.
5. Print the approval letter and present it at the Immigration window upon arrival.

Fees and Processing Time

The standard processing fee for a single-entry VoA is approximately USD 150. Fees may vary depending on nationality and visa category. Applicants should allow at least five business days for approval, though expedited options are sometimes available at an additional cost.

Arrival and Visa Issuance

• Proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter before immigration clearance.
• Present your printed approval letter, passport, and payment receipt.
• Pay the balance of visa fees in cash (USD or Ghana Cedi accepted).
• Receive the visa vignette affixed to your passport and proceed to passport control.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Double-check all document scans for legibility before uploading.
• Keep extra passport photos on hand as a backup.
• Arrive with sufficient local currency to cover any unexpected charges.
• Monitor your email (including spam folder) for the approval notification.

Contact Information

For further assistance, reach out to the Ghana Immigration Service:

• Website: https://www.ghanaimmigration.org
• Email: info@immigration.gov.gh
• Phone: +233 (0) 302 678 301

By following these guidelines and preparing your documents in advance, obtaining a Visa on Arrival in Ghana can be a seamless process. Safe travels!