Ghana > Accra

Accra

Urban   Coastal   Beaches   Riverfront  

Accra is the vibrant capital and largest city of Ghana, located on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. As a major economic and cultural hub, it serves as the country's political center and primary commercial gateway. The city blends colonial architecture with modern development, featuring bustling markets, government institutions, and a dynamic business district. Accra's streets are alive with activity, from the energetic Makola Market to the upscale neighborhoods of Osu and Cantonments. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions that showcase Ghanaian heritage and contemporary African art. Accra's waterfront offers scenic views and recreational opportunities, while its diverse neighborhoods each possess distinct character and charm. The city attracts visitors and residents with its relatively stable infrastructure, growing tech scene, and welcoming atmosphere. Street food culture thrives throughout Accra, offering authentic Ghanaian cuisine at every corner. Despite rapid urbanization, the city maintains connections to its historical roots, with landmarks reflecting its colonial past and role in Ghana's independence movement.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Ghana involves several steps and can be considered an average challenge compared to other countries. Expatriates looking to reside in Ghana typically apply for a Ghana Work and Residence Permit. This permit is necessary for any foreign national who intends to work and live in Ghana. The process begins with the expatriate securing a job offer or proving that they will be engaging in a business that is beneficial to the Ghanaian economy. Once a job offer is received, the individual or the employing company must submit an application to the Ghana Service (GIS) along with the required documents. These documents often include a passport valid for at least six months, a police clearance certificate from the applicant's home country, a medical clearance certificate from an accredited health institution in Ghana, and proof of the job offer or business intent. The application process for a Work and Residence Permit is quite thorough and requires various forms of documentation to prove the legitimacy of the expatriate's employment or business activities. The company in Ghana must also provide documentation, such as company registration certificates and tax clearance certificates, to support the application. Once the application is submitted, it is reviewed by the GIS. If approved, the expatriate will be issued a residence permit that typically lasts for one to four years, depending on the type of permit granted, and is renewable. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes a few weeks to a few months to receive the permit. It is important to note that there is no specific visa for digital nomads in Ghana. However, many digital nomads use the Ghana Tourist Visa to enter the country, which allows them to stay for up to 60 days. This visa does not permit the holder to engage in any form of employment in Ghana. For longer stays, digital nomads would need to explore other types of visas or permits, such as the aforementioned Work and Residence Permit, if they can secure employment or establish a business in Ghana. Overall, while the process is bureaucratic and requires various clearances and documentation, it is a well-established system that, when followed correctly, allows expatriates to obtain residency in Ghana.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Accra is moderate compared to other major African cities, though prices vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle. Accommodation in central areas and expat-friendly districts commands higher prices, while local neighborhoods offer more affordable options. Food and transportation costs remain relatively reasonable, particularly when utilizing local markets and public transit.

Weather

Accra has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, characterized by two rainy seasons (May-June and September-October) and relatively dry harmattan winds from December to March.

Healthcare in Accra

Accra has several well-equipped private hospitals and clinics including Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ridge Hospital, and private facilities like Aga Khan Hospital and Nyaho Clinic that provide good quality care. Public healthcare facilities exist but often face resource constraints, while private healthcare offers more reliable services with modern equipment and English-speaking staff. Medical tourism is common, and many expatriates utilize private healthcare options.

Schools in Accra

Accra has several established international schools including Accra International School (AIS), which offers an American curriculum, and British School of Accra (BSA), which follows the British system. These schools provide IB programs and cater to expatriate families seeking quality international education.

Accra has bilingual schools offering instruction in English and French, such as Lycée Franco-Ghanéen, which serves families seeking dual-language education. These schools are less common than international schools but provide options for bilingual development.

Restaurants in Accra

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