Ghana or officially the Republic of Ghana is a West African country located along the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean. Having Accra as its capital, it offers great experience and beautiful places. Ghana should be your first choice of destination if you’re considering traveling to any African country. Not only that, but Ghana is also considered as a developing country in Africa. For that reason, it really deserves to be a part of your travel bucket list.

Unfortunately, it is not too easy to travel there because US citizens need to obtain a Ghana Tourist Visa first before entering. But don’t worry, as, in this article, we listed down all the information that you might need in case you want to go and explore this awesome West African Country.

Facts about Ghana

Language

Ghana is considered a multilingual country. They have at least 80 spoken languages. However, English is the country’s official language.

Currency

Ghanaian cedi
Religion

The majority of Ghanaians are Christian, making it up to 71.2% of the population and 17.6% are Muslims.

Main Requirements in Applying for Ghana Tourist Visa

1. Original Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival in Ghana.)

2. Two recent photos, 2x2 with white background. (must be attached to your application.)

3. Signed and completed application form (for regular service) OR application form (for rush service.) OR a copy of your online application received in your email as an attachment. (Click here for the online application.)

Note: If you don’t receive a copy of your online submission in your email, just fill out the application forms for regular or rush service. But please do check your spam messages as there’s a high risk that the email will be there.

1. Any supporting documents like consent or invitation letter, birth certificate for minors, etc.

2. Self Address prepaid trackable return label and envelope. (USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL)

Visa Fee:

Single Entry Regular = $60
Single Entry Rush = $100
Multiple Entry Reg = $100
Multiple Entry Rush = $200

*All fees are non-refundable.

Mode of payment: Money Order or Cashier’s check made payable to The Embassy of Ghana Washington DC.

Processing time:

Walk-in applicants (expedited): Up to 3 business days.

Walk-in applicants (regular): Up to 5 business days

Mail-in applicants (expedited): 3-5 business days

Mail-in applicants (regular): 7-10 business days

Important things to remember

The mail should be addressed to the Embassy of Ghana Washington DC NW. Washington DC, 20008 (complete address is written below).
Make sure all the requirements are complete to avoid the delay of your application.

Embassy in the United States

Embassy of Ghana
Address: 3512 International Drive NW, Washington DC, 20008
Contact number:
Tel: (202) 686-4520
Email: info@ghanaembassydc.org

Office hours:
Submitting your application in person: 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM (Mon-Thu)
Picking up your passport in person: 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM (Mon-Thu)

Frequently Asked Questions on Applying for a Ghana Tourist Visa

1. When should I apply for a visa?

The best time to apply for a Ghana visa is at least a month before your target departure date.

2. Is it safe to travel to Ghana?

Ghana is relatively safe to travel to. In fact, it is one of the safest countries in West Africa. You’d be able to go around Ghana without worrying about violent crimes. Just remember to take precautionary measures anywhere you go but rest assured that it is quite safe.

Just another safety reminder, please remember to not drink tap water in Ghana due to the fact that Ghana still lacks access to clean drinking water. It is advisable to buy bottled water or bagged water which is cheaper and just available anywhere on the street.

3. Should I get travel insurance before my departure?

You don’t necessarily need to get travel insurance upon traveling to Ghana. However, it is still advisable to get one just to be safe and sure.

4. How to get there?

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the US to Ghana. You need a connecting flight to go there. The main airport in Ghana is Kotoka International Airport, which is located in Accra, the country’s capital. Check Skyscanner to see more available flights going to Ghana.

5. When is the best time to visit Ghana?

November to March is the ideal time to visit Ghana, the weather is nice and all attractions are available to visit. It is the rainy season from April to mid-October so most attractions are close down during those days.

6. Will I have a hard time communicating with the locals?

The official language in Ghana is English, so tourists wouldn’t have any difficulties communicating with the locals. So it is not recommended to have a translator app or a travel book/guide with you when you go to this country.

7. Why should I visit Ghana?

Ghanaians are known to be hospitable and welcoming to tourists. When you go here, you’d be surprised by how they treat visitors. But aside from the fact that Ghanaians would really make you feel at home, Ghana is also one of the safest countries in Africa. It’s a democratic African country and has a healthy economy, this makes Ghana a safe destination for tourists.

But of course, not only that, museums, beaches, and parks are some of the few attractions in Ghana that you shouldn’t miss. When you go to this country don’t forget to visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park which honors Ghana’s first president. This memorial park is gorgeous.

If you’re a beach person, then you’re in the right place! Ghana has some of the most lovely beaches like the popular seafront spots Labadi Beach and Kokrobite Beach that offer golden sand and high-energy nightlife. Really exciting!

Surely Ghana is an underrated African country that deserves a visit from tourists around the world. So if you’re thinking of going here, then stop hesitating and apply for a visa, book a flight, and have a blast in one of the most prosperous countries in West Africa.