Are you planning a trip to Ghana from the United States and need a visa? Understanding the visa application process and timeframe helps ensure you can get to Ghana smoothly.
Maybe you have gone through our article covering the cost of a visa from Ghana to the USA, this article is going to dive into how long it will take you if you finally apply for one.
In this article, we’ll dive into all the details around obtaining a Ghana tourist or business visa when applying from the USA.
Introduction to Ghana Visas for US CitizensGhana offers US citizens two main visa options – a tourist visa valid for up to 90 days or a business visa valid for 5 years with multiple entries.
US passport holders must obtain a visa before travel unless they are staying for 24 hours or less in the Kotoka International Airport transit zone.
Visa requirements include a valid passport, application form, photos, fee payment, and supporting documents like ticket bookings and bank statements. Processing times vary based on factors like where you apply and the visa type.
Ghana Tourist Visa Timeframe From USA
The tourist visa allows stays in Ghana for up to 90 days and is a single-entry visa. Here’s an overview of the tourist visa process from the USA:
- Application Options: Apply by mail to the Ghana embassy in DC or use a visa agency
- Processing Time: 5-15 business days by mail; 7-14 days via agency
- Fees: $100 for single-entry, $160 for multiple-entry visa
- Requirements: Passport, application form, photos, fee, hotel booking
- Validity: Tourist visas are valid for 90 days from the date of issue
So you can expect to receive your Ghana tourist visa in about 1-3 weeks when applying by mail from the USA.
Using a visa agency can speed things up by getting your application directly to the embassy.
Ghana Business Visa Timeframe from USA The Ghana business visa allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit for 5 years.
Here Are The Key Facts On The Business Visa Process
- Application Options: Apply by mail or use a visa agency
- Processing Time: 7-15 days by mail; 5-10 days via agency
- Fees: $100 visa fee plus agency service fees if used
- Requirements: Passport, application form, photos, letter from employer
- Validity: Multiple entries up to 90 days each visit over 5 years
So you can expect to receive your 5-year multiple entry Ghana business visa in around 1-2 weeks when applying directly through the embassy or consulate in the USA. Using a visa agency can save you 5-10 days in processing time.
Tips For Easy Ghana Visa Application
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth visa application process:
- Double check you have all the required documents before applying
- Make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity left
- Use the official visa application forms from the embassy
- Include confirmed flight and hotel bookings if applying for a tourist visa
- If invited for business, get a letter from the company in Ghana
- Photocopy all documents in case additional copies are needed
- Pay the visa fee using the approved payment methods
- Write your name and passport number clearly on all forms
- Provide a prepaid courier envelope for return delivery
- Opt for fast-tracked processing via visa agencies if needed urgently
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Ghana from the US involves getting a visa in advance through the embassy. Tourist and business visas take roughly 1-3 weeks via direct mail or 5-10 days quicker through agencies.
Include all required documents and follow the tips provided in this article to get your visa smoothly. Check the official embassy website for the most updated information and forms to start the Ghana visa process.
With the visa in hand, you’ll be ready to embark on your memorable journey to discovering Ghana’s culture, wildlife, beaches, and welcoming people.
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