Right of Abode

The Right of Abode (ROA) is a permanent legal status that allows you to live and work in Ghana indefinitely. This is an in-person administrative process that begins at the Ministry of the Interior in Accra, though some initial steps can be started through the Ministry's e-services portal.

Step 1: Establish Residency

Before you can apply for ROA, you must typically live in Ghana on a valid residence permit. For those of African descent in the diaspora, you are generally expected to have resided in the country for at least 2 to 5 years before submitting your application.

Step 2: Gather Your Documentation

Requirements vary based on your background. Ensure all foreign documents are legalized or apostilled if necessary.

For Persons of African Descent (Historic Diaspora):

• Application Letter: A formal request addressed to the Minister for the Interior.
• Attestation Letters: Two testimonials from Ghanaians "of repute" (such as Lawyers, Notaries Public, or Senior Public Officers) including copies of their national IDs.
• Economic Contribution: Proof of your investment in Ghana, such as bank statements, audited accounts, or evidence of employing Ghanaian citizens.
• Police Clearance: A current report from the Ghana Police Service.
• Medical Report: You must undergo a medical exam specifically at the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) Clinic.
• Non-Citizen ID: A photocopy of your mandatory G-Card.
• Business Records (if applicable): If you are a business owner, provide your Company Code, 3 years of audited accounts, SSNIT (Social Security) returns for employees, and Tax Clearance Certificates for the last 6 years.

For Former Ghanaian Citizens:

• Renunciation Certificate: Official proof that you previously gave up your Ghanaian citizenship.
• Birth Certificate: Your original or a certified copy.
• Autobiography: A brief written history of your life.
• Property Records: Indentures or site plans for any land or buildings you own in Ghana.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Purchase the official application form from the Ministry of the Interior in Accra. Complete the form and submit it along with your supporting documents and the application fee.

Step 4: Due Diligence and Background Check

The Ministry will forward your file to the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS). They will conduct a background check and verify the authenticity of your documents. You may be contacted for an interview during this stage.

Step 5: Ministerial Review and Presidential Approval

Once the GIS completes its report, the Minister for the Interior reviews your file. By law, the final status for Right of Abode must be approved by the President of Ghana.

Step 6: Issuance

Once approved, you will be notified to return to the Ministry to receive your Right of Abode Certificate. An endorsement will also be placed in your foreign passport, exempting you from future visa requirements.

Fees are subject to change and were last updated in early 2026. Costs are split between administrative forms, medical fees, and the permit itself.

Item	Cost
Application Form	GH₵ 50 – GH₵ 100
Medical Examination (at GIS Clinic)	$280 USD
Right of Abode Permit Fee	GH₵ 3,879
Non-Citizen ID Card (G-Card)	~$120 USD

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $750 – $850 USD (depending on current exchange rates).

Note: This total does not include annual G-Card renewal fees (required until ROA is granted), costs for obtaining police clearances, or fees for audited business accounts.

The application for Right of Abode is a thorough process involving multiple levels of government.

• GIS Due Diligence: Usually takes 3 to 6 months to complete the background check.
• Final Approval: Once the report reaches the Minister, the official stated time for a decision is 6 months.
• Total End-to-End Timeline: In practice, expect the process to take 12 to 24 months.

Delays are common because each application requires personal approval from the President. Ensure your G-Card and current residence permit remain valid throughout this entire period.