Ghana•Africa

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Residence Permit (Dependant)

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Application Fee

Free

Stay Duration

Up to 8 years

Renewable

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

Available

Remote Work

Not Required

Official Information

Overview

Residence permit for spouses (married 4+ years), children, and other dependants of work permit holders or Ghanaian nationals with foreign passports.

The Dependant Residence Permit is intended for the immediate family members of foreign nationals who are already legally residing in Ghana under a valid work or residence permit. This category is strictly limited to legally married spouses and minor children. It allows these family members to accompany the principal permit holder and live with them in Ghana for the duration of the principal's authorized stay. The permit is tied directly to the status of the principal applicant; if the principal's permit expires or is revoked, the dependent's status is similarly affected.

This permit is for families who wish to stay together while the principal applicant works or conducts business in Ghana. It is important to note that holding a Dependant Residence Permit does not grant the holder the right to work in Ghana. If a dependent wishes to take up employment, they must independently qualify for and obtain their own work permit and corresponding residence authorization. The application process requires proof of the family relationship and a formal guarantee from the principal applicant that they will provide for the dependent's financial needs during their time in the country.

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must be a legally recognized dependent (spouse or minor child) of a principal permit holder.

Spouses must be married to the principal applicant (marriage must be recognized under Ghanaian law).

The principal applicant must hold a valid Residence Permit or a valid Residence Permit receipt.

The dependent must reside with the principal applicant in Ghana.

Must hold a valid passport.

Must obtain a Non-Citizen ID Card (Ghana Card).

Must complete a mandatory GIS medical examination.

Must not engage in employment without obtaining a separate, independent work permit.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

none or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Application letter requesting the residence permit.

Copy of the principal applicant's valid Residence Permit or permit receipt.

Copy of the principal applicant's passport bio-data page.

Marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for children).

Two passport-sized photographs of the applicant.

Copy of the applicant's Non-Citizen ID card.

Valid passport.

Letter of support from the principal applicant confirming financial responsibility.

GIS medical examination report.

Completed GIS dependent residence permit application form.

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Allows family members to reside legally with the primary permit holder in Ghana.
Provides stability for expatriate families living in the country.
Allows for multiple re-entries into Ghana.

Worth Knowing

This permit does not grant the right to work; a separate work permit is required if the dependent intends to work.
The permit is tied to the status of the primary applicant; if the primary permit expires or is revoked, the dependent's permit is affected.
Requires annual renewal.

Application Process

Ensure the primary applicant (e.g., employee) has a valid residence permit.

Obtain the necessary documentation proving the family relationship.

Register for the Non-Citizen ID Card.

Prepare an application letter on the company's letterhead (if applicable) or a personal letter of support from the primary applicant.

Submit the application to the Ghana Immigration Service.

Pay the required processing fees.

Undergo medical screening at the GIS clinic.

Collect the residence permit once approved.

Application Forms

Dependent Residence Permit Application

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