How To Obtain A Work Permit In Ghana

Getting a work permit in Ghana can be a very confusing process. The first thing you need to get your work permit in Ghana is to get the right information. So, in this article, we’ll take you through the process of obtaining a work permit in Ghana as a foreigner.

In fact, as a foreigner, you are not permitted to employ or accept employment unless you have been granted a work permit or immigrant quota in Ghana. So, if you have plans of working in Ghana, the first thing to do is to apply for a work permit at the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

What is a Ghana Work Permit?

A Work permit or Immigrant quota is an authorization granted to a foreign employer or employee to engage in lawful and gainful employment in Ghana. The Ghana work permit specifies the job description of the foreigner. The holder cannot engage in any other employment, business, profession or occupation in Ghana for reward than what is specified by the work permit.

Generally, the Ghana work permit has a validity period of 1 year with a renewal option. However, being granted a work permit doesn’t make you eligible to work in Ghana. You also need to be granted a residence permit by the Director of Immigration to remain and work in the country.

Requirements For Obtaining A Work Permit In Ghana

To apply for a work permit, the following documentation needs to be provided;

1. Application letter on company’s letterhead
2. Business Registration Documents – certificate of incorporation, certificate of commencement of business, company regulations, form 3&4
3. Tax Clearance Certificate (for existing companies)
4. Letter of employment / Contract
5. Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Certificate (If registered)
6. Letter of support from Ministry, Department or Agency (if required)
7. Bio data page of passport of applicant
8. Curriculum Vitae / Resume
9. Police Clearance Certificate from employee’s country of origin or current residence
10. Educational and Professional Certificates
11. Passport & residence permit copy of employer
12. Medical Report – To be done at the Ghana Immigration Service, Accra
13. Non-Citizen ID card – To be done at the NIA Office in Accra

The work permit is the first stage in the work authorization process and therefore does not entitle a prospective employee to engage in work activities in Ghana. To commence work activities, the applicant is required to apply and obtain a residence permit with their company.

How To Obtain A Work Permit In Ghana

Visit the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) headquarters (see address below). It is important to note that the Ghana work permit application forms are available for a fee (see below).

The work permit form requires three classes of information; Company, Employee and Employment contract details. You must endeavour to provide accurate and correct information in all sections of the form for your application to be processed.

The application forms should be signed by an authorized representative of the employer. The person who signs the application must attach relevant documents as proof that he is an officer of the company (passport, a copy of residence permit etc).

READ ALSO: How to Obtain Ghana Residence Permit.

Cost of Ghana Work Permit?

How much is the Ghana work permit? Well, the cost of Ghana work permit varies considerably depending on nationality. Fees for ECOWAS National (Nigeria, Togo, Liberia, Cote D’Ivoire, Senegal etc.) and other nationals are not the same.

• Ghanaians with foreign passport – $150
• ECOWAS – $500
• Other Nationals – $1,000

Processing Time For Ghana Work Permit

How long does it take to get a work permit in Ghana? On the normal, the duration for processing work permits is within 2 to 3 weeks. However, if the information provided is not correct, it might take longer.

Where to Obtain Ghana Work Permit

The next question is where do I get Ghana work permit. The Ghana work permit can be obtained at the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) headquarters

Ghana Immigration Service Headquarters
(off Ako Adjei overpass)
Independence Avenue, Accra-Ghana
Tel:+233(0)302-258250
Fax: +233(0)302- 258249
E-mail: [email protected]

Front Desk/Reception Telephone lines: +233 (0)302-224445, 221667 ,674125, 213401
Website: GIS Website