By Cicely A. Richard
The Republic of Ghana is a West African country near the equator. The country, once part of the ancient Empire of Ashanti, was colonized by Portuguese and British settlers. Although it has been independent from the United Kingdom since 1957, the influences of Western civilization are still evident. Ghana has a number of natural resources, but about 30 percent of the population lives in poverty. Because of occasional civil unrest and the possibility of infectious disease, Ghana travel requirements are specific for people planning to enter the country.
Passport
Anyone wanting to meet Ghana travel requirements must obtain a valid passport or other government-issued identifying document. The Ministry of Information and National Orientation lists appropriate documents from organizations recognized by the government of Ghana, including ECOWAS, the United Nations and its specialized agencies, the World Bank and the African Development Bank.
Visa
All foreign travelers to Ghana must have valid visas before their trip or they will be denied access to the country. The country needs valid visas so that Ghana officials can verify that visitors have been vaccinated for yellow fever. People who have potential health risks will not be able to enter the country. Information about visa applications can be obtained from the Embassy of Ghana in Washington, D.C., by calling (202) 686-4520, or from Ghana consulates around the world.
Visa Exemptions
If people do not live near diplomatic missions or authorized consulates, they can meet Ghana travel requirements by getting permission from the director of immigration or a sponsor from the country before arriving. Applications for a visa exemption must be mailed to Director of Immigration, Ghana Immigration Service, Private Mail Bag, Ministries Post Office-Accra. People in need of an exemption can call 011 00233-21-221667/225321/224445.
Financial Travel Requirements
Ghana requires visitors to present proof that they have the financial means to support themselves for the length of their stay in the country. Information about proper documents can be obtained by contacting the Embassy of Ghana.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Tucson, Ariz., Cicely A. Richard has been writing since 1996. Her articles have been published in the “Arizona Daily Star” newspaper and “ForeWord Magazine.” Richard earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and journalism from Louisiana State University.
