- Entry rules.
To enter the country a visa is required. Minimum time for registration of documents in the Embassy of Ghana in the U.S. – 1 day. Required Documents: Questionnaire and photos – 4 pieces and the original invitation. Consular fee is 80-200 USD (depending on the type of visa). The fee depends on the type of visa, dates and purpose of the trip. Duration of a visa is 90 days. A transit visa is required when traveling through the country. Children under 16 years old need a parent’s (mother’s) visa. When crossing the border, you must present a passport with a visa and fill out an insert form, which includes: Full name, date and place of birth, citizenship, occupation, U.S. and Ghanaian residence address, passport number, and point of departure. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is also required. There are no restrictions on travel within the country.
- Customs regulations.
Export of national currency is prohibited. Importation of foreign currency is not limited (the amount declared on exportation may not exceed the amount declared on entry). To export the amount exceeding the amount declared at entry (or the amount of more than 10 thousand U.S. dollars) requires permission of the Ministry of Finance of Ghana. When importing home appliances (television, video and audio equipment, etc.) the state duty is charged. Duty free import of cigarettes – up to 200 pieces, spirits – 1 liter, wine – 1 liter is permitted. It is forbidden to bring arms, drugs and other goods that are banned by Ghanaian legislation. It is forbidden to export works of art, animals (including birds), if there is no permission for their export (it is strictly prohibited to export parrots). To export jewelry made of precious metals and stones, you will need a receipt and certificate from the store.
3. Some rules of stay for foreigners in Ghana.
To visit Ghana, foreign nationals must present at the border a national passport with a Ghanaian visa, as well as a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever.
Despite the stable socio-political situation in the country, local authorities still recommend foreigners to avoid major political events and street demonstrations in order to prevent possible incidents.
The most common types of crime against foreign nationals are reportedly pickpocketing, purse-snatching and various types of scams. Tourists are advised to take special precautions and be vigilant when visiting markets, beaches, parks and attractions, as well as local sightseeing. In contrast to Liberia, foreigners here are encouraged to limit the carrying and use of cash and jewelry.
In recent years, Ghana has seen an increase in criminal incidents involving foreign nationals due to dubious transactions involving diamonds, gold and other precious metals.
Health care options in Ghana are limited, especially outside Accra. In addition, insurance companies’ liabilities are not accepted here as payment for medical services provided. Foreign nationals should be aware that serious medical problems requiring hospitalization or immediate evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
If traveling in the country by car, be aware that such vehicles are usually stopped at police checkpoints throughout Ghana. Cars and passengers can be searched. Drivers must have an international license. At the same time it is necessary to have documents confirming the legitimacy of stay in the country.
When bringing more than $5,000 in cash into Ghana, a mandatory declaration is required. Currency exchange is possible in most banks and licensed exchange offices. Foreign exchange transactions with private individuals are prohibited.
The government of Ghana strictly controls the import and export of diamonds, gold, and other precious metals. Foreign nationals are warned to conduct transactions in this category of goods only with government-licensed companies. Any transaction that raises even the slightest suspicion of the authorities can be assessed as fraudulent and revoked. In case of evasion of the existing rules, imprisonment is inevitable.
It is forbidden to take photographs and videos of government facilities, including military and government buildings and installations. There have been cases where film and video cameras have been confiscated.
In Ghana the wearing of any military clothing, camouflage jackets or pants, or any clothing or objects that may even remotely resemble military uniforms and weapons is prohibited.