We are excited to welcome you to Accra, Ghana for the 12th edition of the African Peering and Interconnection Forum (AFPIF). To help you prepare your trip, here is some practical information to facilitate your travel to Accra, Ghana.
Visa Requirements
It is strongly recommended for all traveling delegates to obtain their entry visas for Ghana prior to traveling. A visa may be obtained from Ghana Embassies/High Commissions, Consulates or other Embassies authorized by the Government of Ghana to issue visas on its behalf. For more information, contact the Ghana Embassy, consulate, or representation in your area.
Visa requirements vary per country. To check on the visa requirements for your nationality, visit the official website for the Ghana Immigration Services.
ECOWAS Passport holders do not require a visa for entry in Ghana. It is advised to travel with your ECOWAS passport and not your ID card. You will not be permitted to board without a passport. Check the list of ECOWAS member states.
Visa On Arrival
Should you require our assistance with the submission of your visa on arrival application, please fill out the Visa On Arrival Request Form before August 4th, 2023. Please note that you will need to upload the Data Page of your passport and your flight itinerary.
The fee for the visa on arrival is $150 USD and is payable in cash only at the Kotoka International Airport to the Ghana Immigration Services.
The AfPIF Secretariat will transmit your submission to the Ghana Immigration Services. Upon receipt and processing of your application, the Ghana Immigration Services will furnish you with a confirmation letter called an “Authorization to Board” Letter, ensuring that a visa will be granted upon your arrival. This letter is paramount, as it must be presented to the airlines for boarding and subsequently to obtain your visa on arrival at the Kotoka International Airport.
It is important to state that, while AfPIF Organizers are helping with visa facilitation, we are not responsible for any decisions made by the Ghana Immigration Services.
Other Useful information
Money, Finance, Currency
Most major credit cards are accepted; however, it is best to carry cash in the local currency (Ghana Cedi). Foreign Exchange bureaus are available in most hotels and at shopping centers. ATMs are also available for cash withdrawals. Currencies widely accepted for change are US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), CFA Franc (XOF), Pound Sterling (GBP).
Health
- Proof of valid yellow fever vaccine and covid-19 vaccine cards are required for entry in Ghana.
- Consult your physician about malaria prevention or any other health concerns you may have traveling to Ghana.
- Be sure to pack mosquito repellent.
- Avoid water sold in sachet/plastic bags. It is best to consume bottled water.
Weather/Climate
The weather is moderately sunny. There is very low probability of rain but with recent climate change it is possible that there may be a few rain shao. Be sure to pack some light clothes as it gets warm.
Transportation
- Ride share apps that work in Accra: Uber, Yango, Bolt (you may need to use cash in some instances).
- Shuttle services may be available at hotels. Inquire with your place of accommodation.
- Taxis have a sign on the roof of the vehicle stating ‘taxi’ and are painted amber and either black, grey, or red. The variation in colors do not have any significance. It is recommended to use the ride apps as they are safer and routes can be tracked. A taxi from the airport to your hotel would averagely cost GHS 60.
- Never underestimate Accra traffic. Be sure to allow ample time when traveling within city limits.
Telecommunication
At the airport, you can purchase a SIM card for voice and data services.
Recommended networks are MTN, Vodafone and Airtel-Tigo. Make sure to purchase these from an authorized provider/kiosk. A form of identification will be necessary for SIM registration and activation.
Beware of
- Solicitation from people at the airport without proper identification insisting to help with luggage.
- Pick pockets when in busy areas especially markets and on the streets.
- Keep phones and bags away from open widows when in transit.