The United Kingdom, with its captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity, has long been a dream destination for many travelers worldwide, including citizens of Ghana. Embarking on the journey of getting a UK Standard Visitor Visa is a crucial step in turning those dreams into reality.
This guide explains the UK visa application process for Ghanaians, providing essential insights into the requirements, documents, and procedures. Then, when you’re ready, apply instantly on our website or the iVisa app!
Do Ghanaian citizens need a Standard Visitor Visa for the United Kingdom?
Yes. As a citizen of Ghana intending to travel to the United Kingdom, having a Standard Visitor Visa is a requirement. This also applies to children and minors from Ghana.
What is the UK Standard Visitor Visa for Ghanaians?
The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows Ghanaian travelers to embark on various activities in the United Kingdom: tourism, business, visiting loved ones, making stopovers, exchange programs, recreational courses, medical treatments, or volunteering.
To complete the application process, applicants must attend an appointment at a designated Visa Application Center or embassy. During this appointment, essential biometric information will be collected and all necessary documents submitted.
UK Visitor Visa: Eligibility criteria for Ghanaian citizens
In addition to nationality, you must meet several other eligibility requirements to get this visa, which include:
- Intention to leave the UK: You must demonstrate your plans to depart the UK before your visa expires.
- Financial stability: You must prove you have the financial means to support yourself and any dependents during your travels. If someone else will be funding your journey, you must provide evidence of their financial capability.
- Return or onward journey: You must show that you can pay for your return or onward trip from the UK.
UK Visa requirements for Ghanaian citizens
To apply for this visa, you must provide documentation to prove your travel purpose and eligibility. We’ll send you a tailored document list with all the items you must carry to the visa appointment.
Here is a general overview and explanation of each UK visa application requirement for Ghanaians:
- Valid passport – An ordinary passport from Ghana, valid for up to six months beyond the intended stay. Provide a copy of your personal details page.
- Completed visa application form – You’ll receive the online visa application form during the process on our platform.
- Proof of finances – There is no specific amount you must have, but you must generally be able to cover the UK visa fees and all your travel expenses and prove your ability to do this by providing bank statements.
- Travel itinerary – A detailed itinerary outlining the purpose and planned activities during your stay in the UK.
- Accommodation details – Proof of accommodation arrangements in the UK, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.
- Proof of employment (if applicable) – For employed applicants, a letter from their employer stating their position, salary, and approved leave for the travel period.
- Criminal history (if applicable) – Details of any criminal, civil, or immigration offenses you may have committed.
Additional documents may be required based on your circumstances, such as business registration documents to prove the intended business activities or legal guardian’s details when traveling with children.
Fee and processing times for the UK Standard Visitor Visa for Ghanaians
When you choose to apply with us, the total visa fee of the UK Standard Visitor Visa for citizens of Ghana is USD $396.99. This includes both our service fee of USD $269.99 and the government fee of USD $127.00.
These costs can change over time, but you can check the most up-to-date fees by starting the application process online!
The processing time for your application consists of two stages:
iVisa processing time: This initial stage takes 30 days to complete. During this period, our iVisa Experts will meticulously review your form, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Additionally, we will schedule a visa appointment for you.
Government processing time: Following the visa appointment, the government typically takes 1 to 3 weeks to assess and analyze your visa application. This can take longer depending on where you apply from and other factors.
How to apply for the UK Standard Visitor Visa in Ghana
There are two ways to apply:
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Government process: Go to the official government website and follow the steps. The process includes answering questions, paying the visa fee, making an appointment, and dropping off documents.
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Via iVisa: It's also possible to get our guidance for this application. This means a shorter application form, an expert review, and we'll make an appointment at the earliest available date on your behalf!
The process via us generally looks like this:
Step 1: Start by providing your essential travel information on our website or iVisa app. Carefully review the details to ensure accuracy and avoid any errors. Then proceed with the payment of the required visa fees.
Step 2: Complete the UK visa application form and upload all the necessary documents. Rest assured, our iVisa Experts will meticulously review your application and promptly schedule a visa appointment for you.
Step 3: Attend the visa appointment at the UK Embassy or Visa Application Center (VAC) in Accra. During this appointment, you must provide biometric data and undergo an interview (if applicable).
Following your interview, the UK immigration authorities will require your passport to issue the approved UK Visitor Visa.
Where can I find more information about the UK Visitor Visa?
For questions or concerns regarding the UK Standard Visitor Visa or other travel documents, contact us via online chat or WhatsApp.