Travellers who wish to remain in Ghana beyond the period of permitted stay endorsed by Ghana Immigration at entry must contact the Ghana Immigration Service before that permitted stay expires.
This guide outlines the step-by-step process, eligibility criteria, and documentation required to extend a visitor’s visa/permit in Ghana or reapply for a new Ghana visa in 2026.
When to Apply for a Visa Extension
You should apply for a visa/permit extension before the period of permitted stay endorsed by Ghana Immigration at entry expires.
Extensions are processed by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS). UK travellers are directed to take the visa extension form and photos in person to the GIS office on Independence Avenue in Accra.
Eligibility for Visa Extension
Applicants may qualify for an extension if they:
- Hold a visitor’s visa/permit with a period of permitted stay that has not expired.
- Have not violated the conditions of their existing visa.
- Can provide justification for extended stay (e.g., tourism, family visit, business continuation).
- Have sufficient financial resources to cover their extended stay.
- Employment is restricted while on a visitor’s permit.
Documents Required for Visa Extension
The following documents are required when applying for a visitor’s visa/permit extension in Ghana:
- Extension Form.
- Application letter.
- Two recent passport size pictures.
- Photocopy of return ticket.Letter of support from local institution/establishment (where applicable).
- Copy of EV (if any).
- Copy of non-citizen identification card (more than 3 months).
- Application should be submitted with passport.
- Visa Extension Fees (2026)
Visa extension fees are payable directly to the Ghana Immigration Service.
GIS fees and charges effective 15 May 2025 list the following charges
- Extension of visitors permit/month: GHS 26 for holders of foreign passports with Ghanaian parentage or spouse, GHS 39 for ECOWAS nationals, and GHS 65 for other nationals.
- Extension of visitors permit may be granted initially for a minimum period of three months and a maximum of six months.
- Expired visitors permit/month penalty: GHS 52 for holders of foreign passports with Ghanaian parentage or spouse, GHS 200 for ECOWAS nationals, and GHS 300 for other nationals.
Visa Reapplication Procedure
If you are outside Ghana, you may need to reapply for a new visa through the official Ghana eVisa portal or the relevant Ghana diplomatic mission. If you are still in Ghana and your permitted stay has expired or cannot be extended, contact the Ghana Immigration Service.
- Submit a new visa application form with updated information.
- Provide all required documents including passport, photos, and proof of funds.
- Explain your reason for reapplication (previous expiry, long-term visit, etc.).
- Pay the standard visa application fees applicable to your visa type.
- Await processing and follow the instructions from the Ghana eVisa portal, Ghana diplomatic mission, or Ghana Immigration Service.
Extension Locations
Ghana Immigration Service office on Independence Avenue in Accra. Use an authorised GIS regional command only where GIS confirms that the service is available for your location.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Applying after the visa has already expired.
- Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
- Overstaying without notifying authorities.
- Inability to justify reason for extended stay.
- Unpaid fines from prior immigration violations.
Tips for Successful Extension
- Apply before the period of permitted stay endorsed by Ghana Immigration at entry expires.
- Bring both original and photocopies of all required documents.
- Ensure all fees are paid through official Ghana Immigration Service channels.
- Keep copies of receipts and confirmation letters for your records.
- Do not remain beyond the period of permitted stay endorsed at entry without contacting GIS, expired visitors permit penalties are charged per month.
Related Guidance
- Ghana Visa Documents Checklist (2026)
- Ghana Visa Eligibility Requirements (2026)
- Ghana Visa Proof of Funds (2026)
People Also Asked
Can I extend my Ghana visa while in Ghana?
Yes. You can apply for a visa extension at the Ghana Immigration Service before your visa expires.
How long can I extend my Ghana visa?
Extension of visitors permit may be granted initially for a minimum period of three months and a maximum of six months.
Can I extend a visa that has already expired?
If the period of permitted stay endorsed at entry has expired, contact the Ghana Immigration Service urgently; expired visitors permit penalties are charged per month.
Where do I apply for a visa extension in Ghana?
UK travellers are directed to take the visa extension form and photos in person to the Ghana Immigration Service office on Independence Avenue in Accra.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Ghana?
You may have to pay an expired visitors permit penalty, charged per month according to your nationality category.
About This Page
Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Adviser.
Last Updated: 2 June 2026.