Do I Need a Visa?
The short answer: YES! All guests from Canada, the USA, Europe, and Costa Rica require a visa to enter Ghana. Don’t let this intimidate you—with proper planning, the process is straightforward. We strongly recommend applying well in advance to ensure smooth travel!
✅ What You Need
- Passport (valid 6+ months, 1-2 blank pages)
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (get it 10+ days before travel)
- Visa application form (completed)
- Passport photos
- Flight confirmation (round-trip)
- Hotel booking or invitation letter (we can help with this!)
💡 Keep your Yellow Fever certificate in your carry-on—you’ll need it at immigration!
🌍 Country-Specific Application Information
🇨🇦 Canada
Where to Apply: Ghana High Commission in Ottawa
Website: https://ottawa.mfa.gov.gh/VisaApplicationInfo.aspx
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks (for mailed applications)
Special Notes: Canadian Dollars are not commonly accepted for exchange—convert to USD or EUR before traveling.
🇺🇸 USA
Where to Apply: Ghana Embassy in Washington, DC
Website: https://www.ghanaembassydc.org/
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks (for mailed applications)
Special Notes: Some locations offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
🇪🇺 Europe (Schengen Countries & UK)
Where to Apply: Ghana Embassy in your respective country
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Special Notes: Each European country has its own Ghana Embassy—check the embassy website for your specific country for the most accurate information.
🇨🇷 Costa Rica
Where to Apply: Through the nearest Ghanaian Embassy or Consulate
Special Notes: Some travelers may qualify for Visa on Arrival, but pre-approval is strongly recommended to avoid any travel complications.
Currency: Costa Rican Colón is not commonly accepted for exchange—convert to USD or EUR before traveling.
⏰ Timeline: When to Apply
6-8 Weeks Before Travel (Ideal)
- Start gathering your documents
- Schedule your Yellow Fever vaccination
- Research flights and accommodation
4-6 Weeks Before Travel (Recommended Minimum)
- Submit your visa application
- Book your flights once visa is confirmed
- Finalize accommodation bookings
2-3 Weeks Before Travel (Last Resort)
- Only if you’re applying through expedited services
- Not recommended as processing delays can occur
Important:
Some embassies offer online applications with faster processing, while others require mailed applications. Check your specific embassy’s requirements and processing times.
🚨 Avoid These Mistakes
- Expired passport or not enough blank pages
- Applying too late (embassies can have delays)
- Forgetting Yellow Fever certificate
- Incomplete application forms
💰 Money Tip
Bring USD or EUR for currency exchange in Ghana. Canadian Dollars and Costa Rican Colón aren’t widely accepted.
🆘 Need Help?
From us: Contact Tyler & Maya if you need an invitation letter for your visa application.
Embassy questions: Call your local Ghana embassy directly—they’re there to help!
