Quick Facts
Requirement
Visa Required
Visa Fee
GHS 1,528
(~$105)
Processing Time
4–5 working days
Appointment Wait
~0 weeks
Stay Duration
Up to 30 days
E-Visa
Available online
Unlike Nigerian passport holders who get UAE visa on arrival, Ghanaians must apply for an e-visa before travel. The process is straightforward online — apply at icp.gov.ae 5–7 days before your trip.
Key Warnings
- Unlike Nigerians, Ghanaians do NOT get visa on arrival at UAE airports. You must apply for an e-visa at icp.gov.ae BEFORE booking your flight.
- Apply at least 7 days before travel to allow time for processing and any re-submission if documents are rejected.
- Some Ghanaian bank cards decline on the ICP portal. Have a backup payment method ready — a USD Visa card or a GTBank/Access Bank international debit card works reliably.
Insider Tips
- Apply for a 60-day visa if you plan to stay longer than 30 days — it is more cost-effective than extending inside the UAE.
- Once approved, your e-visa PDF is valid for 60 days from the issue date to enter the UAE — plan your travel window accordingly.
- Carry both a printed and digital copy of your e-visa approval. Airlines check it during boarding and UAE immigration re-checks on arrival.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Go to the UAE ICP portal
Visit icp.gov.ae and select 'Visa Services' then 'Tourist Visa'. Create an account or log in if you have one.
-
Fill in the application form
Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your Ghanaian passport. Select 'Ghana' as your nationality and 'Tourist' as the visa purpose.
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Upload documents
Upload scanned copies of your passport bio-data page, passport photograph, return ticket itinerary, and hotel booking confirmation.
-
Pay the visa fee
Pay the ~$90 (GHS 1,310) fee online using a Visa or Mastercard. Note: some Ghanaian cards may have issues — use a USD-denominated card or Ghana-issued international card.
-
Wait for approval
Processing typically takes 3–5 working days. You will receive an email with your approved e-visa PDF. Check your spam folder if you do not receive it.
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Print and travel
Print your e-visa approval and carry it with you. Present it at check-in and at UAE immigration on arrival. The visa is electronically linked to your passport.
Required Documents
-
Valid Ghanaian passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date
-
Scanned copy of passport bio-data page
High-quality scan required for upload on the ICP portal
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Recent passport-size photograph
White background, taken within the last 3 months. Dimensions 35x45mm.
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Return flight itinerary
A booking confirmation or fare itinerary is acceptable — does not need to be a fully paid ticket
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Hotel or accommodation booking confirmation
Must cover all nights of your stay in the UAE
-
Bank statement (last 3 months)
Demonstrates sufficient funds for your trip. Minimum GHS 3,000 average balance recommended.
Recommended (Optional)
-
Travel insurance certificate
Not mandatory but strongly recommended. Reduces the chance of complications at entry.
-
Employment letter or proof of income
Strengthens your application by demonstrating ties to Ghana and financial stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ghanaians get UAE visa on arrival?
No. Unlike Nigerian passport holders, Ghanaian passport holders are NOT on the UAE visa on arrival list. You must apply for a UAE tourist e-visa at icp.gov.ae before travelling. Processing takes 3–5 working days and costs approximately $90 (GHS 1,310).
How do I apply for a UAE visa from Ghana?
Apply online at icp.gov.ae. You will need your passport scan, a passport photo, return flight itinerary, hotel booking confirmation, and a bank statement. The fee is approximately $90 (GHS 1,310) payable by card. Approval typically takes 3–5 working days.
My Ghanaian bank card was declined on the UAE ICP portal — what should I do?
Some Ghanaian-issued debit cards do not process on the ICP portal. Try using a GTBank, Access Bank, or Zenith Bank international Visa/Mastercard. Alternatively, ask a friend or travel agent with a USD card to assist. The fee is approximately $90.
How long is the UAE tourist e-visa valid for?
The standard UAE tourist visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. A 60-day option is also available at a higher fee. The visa must be used within 60 days of the issue date or it expires. Extensions inside the UAE cost AED 600.