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Immigration, Visas & Residency in Accra, Ghana 🇬🇭

Ghana Immigration Service (GIS)

Responsible for visas, residence permits, and immigration compliance.

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Key Services:

  • Entry visas

  • Residence permits

  • Work permits (in collaboration with other agencies)

  • Visa extensions

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Who Needs This:

  • Visitors staying beyond their visa period

  • Individuals relocating or working in Ghana

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Essential Government Offices for Diaspora Returnees & Expats in Ghana

If you are returning to Ghana or relocating from abroad, the ministries below are the main government bodies you will interact with. They support immigration, employment, land ownership, healthcare, and international documentation.

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Ministry of the Interior

Immigration, residency, and national security matters

This ministry oversees entry, stay, and residency in Ghana. Most immigration services are delivered through the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

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Why This Matters to You

  • Residency permits for long-term stay

  • Visa extensions and immigration compliance

  • Citizenship and dual nationality guidance

  • Security clearance and documentation

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Recommended Contact

  • Office: Ghana Immigration Service (Head Office)

  • Location: Accra, Ghana

  • Email: info@gis.gov.gh

  • Website: Ghana Immigration Service portal

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Helpful Tip for Diaspora Returnees
Start residency or dual citizenship applications early, especially if you plan to work, invest, or buy property.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Regional Integration

Passports, consular services, and international affairs

This ministry supports Ghanaians abroad and foreign nationals relocating to Ghana.

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Key Services for Diaspora & Expats

  • Ghanaian passport issuance and renewal

  • Dual citizenship documentation

  • Consular letters and travel verification

  • Diplomatic and regional travel guidance

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Recommended Contact

  • Office: Consular Affairs Bureau

  • Location: Accra, Ghana

  • Email: consular@mfa.gov.gh

  • Website: Ministry of Foreign Affairs official portal

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Helpful Tip:  Diaspora returnees should confirm passport validity and citizenship status before relocating permanently.

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Ministry of Employment & Labour Relations

Work permits, employment law, and labour protection

This ministry ensures fair employment practices and regulates work conditions in Ghana.

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Relevant for

  • Expats working in Ghana

  • Diaspora returnees seeking local employment

  • Business owners hiring staff

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Key Responsibilities

  • Employment regulations and labour laws

  • Worker rights and employer obligations

  • Coordination on work permits (with Immigration)

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Recommended Contact

  • Office: Labour Department

  • Location: Accra, Ghana

  • Email: info@melr.gov.gh

  • Website: Ministry of Employment & Labour Relations

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Helpful Tip : Work permits are usually employer-sponsored. Confirm requirements before accepting a job offer.

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Ministry of Lands & Natural Resources

Land ownership and property documentation

This ministry oversees land administration through the Lands Commission.

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Why This Is Important

  • Land title verification

  • Property registration and documentation

  • Guidance for diaspora land purchases

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Recommended Contact

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Helpful Tip for Diaspora Investors - Always verify land titles through the Lands Commission before making any payment.

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Ministry of Health

Healthcare services and public health policy

The Ministry of Health regulates healthcare access and health insurance in Ghana.

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What You Need to Know

  • National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration

  • Access to public and private hospitals

  • Vaccination and health entry recommendations

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Recommended Contact

  • Office: Ministry of Health / NHIS

  • Location: Accra, Ghana

  • Email: info@moh.gov.gh

  • Website: Ministry of Health / NHIS portal

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Helpful Tip : Register for NHIS soon after arrival and consider private insurance for broader coverage.

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Getting Started in Ghana

For a smooth relocation:

  1. Secure valid travel and residency documents

  2. Confirm employment or business registration requirements

  3. Verify land or housing documentation

  4. Register for health insurance

  5. Keep copies of all official records

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💼 Business, Work & Investment Requirements

 

Registrar General’s Department (RGD)

Responsible for business registration.

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Primary Official Websites

Registrar General’s Department – Government Agency Portal

  • Official site of the RGD with information on services, registration rules, and contact details: 🌐 https://rgd.gov.gh

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Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC)

  • The government’s current online portal dedicated to company/business registration and related filings under the Companies Act, 2019: 🌐 https://orc.gov.gh/

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Required for:

  • Registering a business or NGO

  • Company documentation

  • Legal business compliance

 

Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)

Supports foreign investors and diaspora entrepreneurs.

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Services Include:

  • Investment guidance

  • Business setup requirements for foreigners

  • Investment protection information

 

🏠 Housing, Land & Property

Lands Commission

Responsible for land registration and title verification.

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Important For:

  • Land purchase

  • Title searches

  • Property registration

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Always verify land ownership before making payments.

 

🧾 Legal & Documentation Essentials

Visitors and relocators may need the following documents:

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

  • Entry visa (if applicable)

  • Residence or work permit (for long stays)

  • Police clearance (for employment or residency)

  • Rental or lease agreements

  • Business registration documents (if applicable)

 

🚔 Safety, Law & Local Compliance

Ghana Police Service

Provides law enforcement and public safety.

Important Notes:

  • Report incidents at the nearest police station

  • Keep copies of important documents

  • Respect local laws and regulations

 

💡 Helpful Tips for Diaspora & Caribbean Visitors

  • Always keep copies of your passport and visa

  • Seek official receipts for payments

  • Avoid unofficial agents for legal processes

  • Ask for local guidance when unsure

  • Allow time for government processing

 

⚖️ Legal Disclaimer

The Ghana Caribbean Association provides this information strictly for general guidance and informational purposes.
We do not act as legal representatives or government agents. Visitors and relocators are encouraged to verify requirements directly with the relevant ministries, departments, or licensed professionals.

 

🌍 Our Commitment

The Ghana Caribbean Association is dedicated to supporting Caribbean and diaspora visitors by sharing reliable information, cultural guidance, and trusted resources to help you navigate life in Ghana with confidence.

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