Immigration Services in Ghana for Businesses and Expatriates

Work Permits, Residence Permits, Visa Support & Relocation Services

As Ghana continues to attract foreign investment, multinational companies and international professionals are increasingly deploying employees to work and live in the country. However, navigating Ghana’s immigration requirements can be complex without the right local expertise.

Scribe Advisory & Consulting provides professional immigration support services in Ghana to help businesses deploy expatriate staff efficiently while ensuring full compliance with the regulations of the Ghana Immigration Service.

Our team assists multinational companies, investors, and international organizations with work permits, residence permits, visa applications, and expatriate compliance management, ensuring that employees and their families relocate smoothly to Ghana.

If you are also planning to establish a company in Ghana, our Doing Business in Ghana Guide explains the regulatory, tax, and corporate requirements for foreign investors



Immigration Support for Companies Operating in Ghana

Businesses deploying foreign employees must comply with Ghana’s immigration laws before expatriates can legally begin work in the country.

At Scribe Advisory & Consulting, we support organizations by:

  • Managing work permit and residence permit applications

  • Facilitating Visa on Arrival approvals

  • Handling visa extensions and re-entry visas

  • Assisting with rotator permits for project-based workers

  • Providing immigration advisory and compliance support

Our goal is to minimize administrative burdens for businesses while ensuring expatriates are properly authorized to live and work in Ghana.

Before applying for expatriate permits, companies must be legally registered. Learn more about our company incorporation services in Ghana.

Our Immigration Services in Ghana

Visa on Arrival (Emergency Entry Visa)

A Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows foreign nationals to enter Ghana when travel is required urgently and a visa cannot be obtained through a Ghanaian embassy beforehand.

This option is typically used when:

  • The traveler’s country does not have a Ghanaian embassy or consulate

  • Travel must occur on short notice for business purposes

At Scribe Advisory, we manage the entire application process and provide regular updates to clients.

Processing time: Approximately 3 working days

Visa on Arrival Requirements

  • Clear coloured copy of passport bio-data page

  • Port of embarkation

  • Arrival and departure dates

  • Airline details

  • Introduction letter from sponsoring company

Visa on Arrival approvals are single-entry visas valid for use within 14 days from issuance.

Visa Extensions and Visitor Permit Extensions

Foreign nationals who wish to stay longer in Ghana than their initial visa permits must apply for an extension of their visitor permit.

Scribe Advisory provides support with preparing and submitting applications to immigration authorities to ensure compliance and avoid overstaying penalties.

Typical requirements include:

  • Two passport-size photographs

  • Valid passport

  • Valid return ticket

  • Supporting letter from sponsoring company

Where the visitor entered Ghana with an emergency visa, a copy of that visa must be included in the extension application.

Re-Entry Business Visa

A Re-entry Business Visa allows expatriates residing in Ghana to travel abroad and return without jeopardizing their immigration status.

This visa is commonly used by executives, consultants, and international staff who travel frequently for business.

Typical processing time: 3 working days

Requirements for Re-Entry Visa

  • Valid passport

  • Company support letter

  • Cover letter explaining purpose and duration of travel

  • Two passport photographs

Work Permits and Residence Permits in Ghana

Foreign nationals must obtain a Work Permit before taking up employment in Ghana.

However, it is important to note that a Work Permit alone does not authorize employment. After receiving the permit, expatriates must also obtain a Residence Permit from the Director of Immigration before beginning work.



Scribe Advisory provides end-to-end support for both permits to ensure compliance with Ghana’s immigration framework.



Typical processing time: Up to 3 weeks

Documents Required for Work Permit Applications

  • Company letterhead application

  • Company registration documents

  • Company profile

  • Tax clearance certificate

  • Employment contract

  • CV and professional qualifications

  • Police clearance certificate

  • Passport bio-data page

  • Cover letter from employer

  • CVs of Ghanaian understudies (succession plan)

These requirements align with Ghana’s policy of promoting skills transfer from expatriates to Ghanaian employees.

Rotator Permits for Project-Based Workers

Rotator permits are designed for specialized professionals who rotate in and out of Ghana for project work, particularly in industries such as:

  • Oil and gas

  • Mining

  • Engineering

  • Construction

  • Offshore operations

These permits are typically:

  • Valid for six months

  • Renewable once

  • Processed within two weeks

Rotator Permit Requirements

  • Certificate of incorporation of company

  • Certificate to commence business

  • Company registration documents

  • VAT certificate and tax clearance certificate

  • Employment contract specifying duration and salary

  • Employee CV

Work Permit Renewal and Compliance

Employers must ensure that work permits are renewed before expiration to avoid compliance issues.

Renewal applications must typically include:

  • Submission one month before expiry

  • Updated succession or training report

  • Training plan for Ghanaian understudies

  • CVs of Ghanaian employees being trained

Scribe Advisory monitors permit timelines and ensures companies remain fully compliant with immigration regulations in Ghana.



Why Businesses Choose Scribe Advisory for Immigration Services

Scribe Advisory & Consulting combines local regulatory expertise with corporate advisory experience to provide seamless immigration services.

Our clients benefit from:

✔ Experienced immigration advisors

✔ Direct engagement with immigration authorities

✔ Faster and well-prepared applications

✔ Reduced HR administrative workload

✔ Full compliance with Ghanaian immigration laws

✔ Integrated relocation and corporate advisory support

We work with multinational companies, foreign investors, NGOs, and international professionals relocating to Ghana.



Immigration Compliance for Expatriates in Ghana

Immigration compliance is essential for any organization employing foreign nationals. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, permit revocations, or restrictions on future applications.

By partnering with Scribe Advisory, companies ensure that their expatriate workforce is fully authorized and supported throughout their stay in Ghana.

Need Help With Work Permits or Visas in Ghana?

If your organization is deploying expatriate staff to Ghana, our team can guide you through the immigration process and ensure a smooth relocation.

Contact Scribe Advisory & Consulting today for professional immigration services in Ghana.





Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to get a work permit in Ghana?

Work permits in Ghana typically take around three weeks, depending on the completeness of documentation and regulatory approvals.

Can a foreigner work in Ghana with only a work permit?

No. After receiving a work permit, the expatriate must also obtain a Residence Permit from the Director of Immigration before starting work.

What is a Rotator Permit in Ghana?

A rotator permit allows foreign professionals to work in Ghana on a rotational basis for project assignments, typically valid for six months.

Can visas be extended in Ghana?

Yes. Visitors can apply for visa or visitor permit extensions through the Ghana Immigration Service.