Security Status
- Normal precautions
- High degree of caution
- Avoid non-essential travel
- Do not travel
- Overview
- Safety and Security
- Local Laws and Customs
- Health
- Additional Information
- Embassy Contact
Overview
Overview
General COVID-19 Travel Advisory in Operation
For the latest update please read the General COVID-19 Travel Advisory >
Overview
Security Status
Avoid non-essential travel.
Security Status Last Updated: 17 March 2020
COVID-19
A number of COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Ghana as of 13 March 2020.
If you are in Ghana, you should monitor developments regularly and follow the advice of local authorities. See links to relevant websites below.
Ghana Health Service – website: http://www.ghanahealthservice.org/
The Government of Ghana has also published four numbers for anyone feeling unwell (+233) 055 2222 004, 055 2222 005, 050 9497700 and 055 8439 868
Additional information on COVID-19 can be found via the following links:
General Travel Advice
We have been informed of a number of attempts to defraud Irish citizens through email scams. Exercise caution if you are offered a deal which seems to be too good to be true, or if an internet friendship results in requests for money.
Emergency assistance
Because there is no Irish Embassy or Consulate in the Ghana, we’re limited in the help we can offer you in an emergency. However, if you need assistance, you can contact the Honorary Consulate in Accra or the Irish Embassy in Abuja.
EU Directive on Consular Protection
Under the EU Consular Protection Directive, Irish nationals may seek assistance from the Embassy or Consulate of any other EU member state in a country where there is no Irish Embassy or permanent representation.
Our tips for safe travels
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance which covers all your intended activities
- Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly in an emergency, such as a natural disaster or a family emergency
- Follow us on twitter @dfatravelwise for the latest travel updates
- Read our Topical ‘Know Before You Go’ guide
Safety and Security
Safety and Security
Safety and security
Social unrest
We advise you to avoid attending all political gatherings as these can be flashpoints for civil unrest.
Always keep yourself informed of what’s going on around you by monitoring local media and staying in contact with your hotel or tour organiser.
Terrorism
Arising from a heightened threat of terrorism in West Africa and worldwide, there is a risk of terrorism in Ghana. Indiscriminate terrorist attacks could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by tourists and expatriates such as hotels, beaches, churches or other areas where people gather.
Crime
Most visits to Ghana are trouble-free. However, there are incidents of crime, particularly in and around Accra and the other main urban areas and particularly after dark. Therefore you should take sensible precautions:
- Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
- Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
- Avoid showing large sums of money in public and be careful using ATMs, particularly after dark, especially if you’re alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.
- Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
- Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.
Reporting crime
If you’re a victim of a crime while in Ghana, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us at the Irish Embassy in Abuja if you need help.
Fraud
Some Irish citizens have been victims of fraud in Ghana. If a friend you have met online starts to ask you to transfer money to them or you receive an unsolicited email with a business offer, an offer to purchase commodities, or any other proposal which promises quick financial reward, please be vigilant about the potential for scams. Contact the Embassy of Ireland in Abuja, Nigeria for an assessment of the credibility of the offer before you commit any resources to any offer.
Driving
The inter-city road network in Ghana is in good condition by regional standards, but falls short of the standards available in Ireland. However, you should be extremely careful particularly in rural areas, as most roads are in a poor condition. Road travel can be extremely hazardous due to poor or non-existent street lighting. If you want to drive:
- Bring your full Irish driver’s licence and your international driving permit and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught.
- Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights.
- You are advised to avoid travelling by road outside the main towns after dark, when the risk of accidents and robbery is greater.
Public transport
Safety standards on buses and taxis are often low.
Hiring a vehicle
If you’re hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security.
If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.
Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).
Swimming
Wave and tide patterns are often dangerous, and swimming from beaches can be hazardous.You should only do so on local advice.
Water sports
If you’re taking part in extreme adventure sports (white water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, etc.), make sure that these activities are covered by your insurance. You should be aware that many of these adventure sports operators are unregulated, and so take care that you choose reputable tour operators.
Local Laws and Customs
Local Laws and Customs
Local laws and customs
Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or even illegal.
Local culture
Ghana is a conservative and religious country and you should use your common sense and respect local sensitivities. Beachwear should be confined to the beach, and wearing immodest clothing in public is likely to cause offence or attract unwanted attention.
Illegal drugs
Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.
LGBT
Homosexuality in Ghana is illegal and can incur a penalty of up to seven years in prison.
Caution and discretion are advised at all times.
Photography
Photography near government buildings, military installations and airports is prohibited as is photography of military and law enforcement personnel.
Health
Health
Health
Check with your doctor a minimum of eight weeks in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for Ghana. The standard of medical care available in Ghana is good by regional standards but not as high as the standard available in Ireland. Serious accidents or illnesses may require medical evacuation to Europe.
Malaria
Malaria is endemic in Ghana and can be fatal without medical attention. Before travelling, get up-to-date medical advice as to whether you will need anti-malarial medication. Avoid mosquito bites by using bed nets and repellents, and wearing closed shoes, long sleeves and trousers.
Yellow fever
A yellow fever vaccination and a valid WHO-approved Yellow Vaccination Book are required for entry to Ghana – if you can’t provide evidence of yellow fever vaccination, you may be deported.
HIV and AIDS
HIV and AIDS are prevalent in Ghana. If you’re engaging in activities that expose you to possible HIV infection, make sure you take adequate precautions. If you suspect that you have been exposed, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Cholera
There has been a continuing cholera outbreak in Ghana. You can find more information about this disease from the World Health Organisation.
Water
Water-borne diseases are a problem in Ghana and you should make sure you have a supply of clean bottled water at all times.
Additional Information
Additional Information
Additional information
Climate
Ghana has a tropical climate leading to high temperatures and also heavy rainfall. Due to the heat it’s important that you maintain a healthy supply of clean drinking water. Average temperatures vary between 21°C – 32 °C. Rainfall in Ghana (excluding the north) occurs between April - June and September - November. Light rainfall ensues in the north between March to April and August – September.
Flooding
Floods are the principal natural disasters in Ghana, accounting for many deaths. During the rainy season, heavy rains can cause flooding and make some roads impassable. You should be particularly careful when travelling during the rainy season.
Entry requirements (visa/passport)
Irish nationals need a visa to travel to Ghana. You can’t get a visa at the border, so you will need to organise it before you travel. Contact your nearest Ghanaian embassy or consulate for more information on entry requirements, including how long your passport must be valid for.
Passports
It’s advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
Ghana Visa Applications
Ireland Visa Application CentreF298/5, 5th Norla Link
North Labone Estate
Near UNHCR office at Labone
Accra
Ghana
Tel: +233 302 768417
Tel: +233 302 769018
E-mail: info.iegh@vfshelpline.com
Website: http://ie.vfsglobal.com.gh/index.aspx
Embassy contact
Embassy Contact
Irish citizens who require urgent assistance while the Embassy is closed can contact the Duty Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs on + 353 (0) 1 408 2000.
Embassy of Ireland
11 Negro Crescent
Maitama District
Abuja
Nigeria
Tel: +234 9 4620611
Fax: + 234 9 4131805
Monday to Thursday 9am to 4pm; Friday 9am to 12pm
Consulate Contact
Mr Len Comerford
PW House
10 Abidjan House
East Legon
Accra
Ghana
Tel: +233 30 251 8112
Fax: +233 30 251 8117
Email: Email us