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Apply for a Ghana work permit

Foreign nationals must hold a valid work permit before taking up employment in Ghana. The Ghana Immigration Service issues work permits jointly with the Ministry of the Interior under the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573).

Before you apply

The employer must first obtain a quota allocation from the Ghana Immigration Service if their industry is subject to expatriate quota regulations. Work without a valid permit is a criminal offence for both the employee and the employer.

Step by step

  1. Your employer obtains quota approval from the Ghana Immigration Service (if required).
  2. Your employer submits the work permit application on your behalf with all supporting documents and the fee.
  3. You attend a biometrics appointment at the GIS office when notified.
  4. GIS reviews the application and issues the work permit.
  5. You may begin work only after the permit is issued and in your hands.

After you receive your permit

Your work permit is tied to your employer. If you change employer, a new permit is required. Renew at least 3 months before expiry. Keep a copy of your permit at your workplace at all times.