This guide covers every UK visa fee in Ghana for 2026, with costs shown in both US Dollars and Ghanaian Cedis. Whether you're applying for a visitor visa, student visa, work visa, or spouse visa, you'll find verified fee tables, grant rate statistics, and step-by-step application guidance for Ghanaian applicants. Ghana ranks #10 globally for UK visitor visa applications with 47,407 submissions but faces the 2nd lowest grant rate at just 57%, according to Home Office statistics.
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
Understanding UK Visa Fees in Ghana 2026
The UK visa fee in Ghana is charged in US Dollars by the Home Office. Ghanaian applicants often need to know the equivalent cost in Cedis, so throughout this guide all fees are shown in both USD and GHS using the approximate rate of GHS 11 per $1 USD. Exchange rates fluctuate daily—confirm the current rate at any licensed forex bureau or the Bank of Ghana website when making payment.
Ghana UK Visa Statistics 2025
Ghana is a major UK visa market in West Africa. According to Home Office Immigration System Statistics (year ending September 2025), Ghanaian nationals submitted over 62,000 visa applications across all categories. However, Ghana consistently records grant rates below the global average in every single visa category—making it one of the most heavily scrutinised nationalities for UK immigration.
| Visa Category | Applications | Granted | Grant Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa | 47,407 | 27,094 | 57% |
| Student visa | 5,761 | 4,915 | 85% |
| Skilled Worker visa | 5,736 | 3,664 | 65% |
| Temporary Worker visa | 1,192 | 458 | 37% |
| Family visa | 2,306 | 1,645 | 78% |
The 57% visitor visa grant rate places Ghana as the nationality with the 2nd lowest approval rate—only Bangladesh (48%) scores lower. With 20,693 visitor visa refusals, Ghana ranks #7 globally by refusal volume. The student visa route offers Ghanaian applicants the best prospects at 85%, though this still falls below the 95% global average. For a detailed breakdown of why applications are refused, see our guide on UK visa refusal reasons.
How Much is UK Visa Fee in Ghana Cedis 2026?
UK visa fees in Ghana Cedis for 2026: the 6-month visitor visa costs $180 (GHS 1,980), 2-year visitor visa is $674 (GHS 7,414), Student visa is $743 (GHS 8,173), Skilled Worker visa is $1,091 (GHS 12,001), and Spouse visa is $2,749 (GHS 30,239). All conversions use the approximate rate of GHS 11 per USD.
The Home Office charges UK visa fees in US Dollars for applications from Ghana. The table below shows all major visa categories in both USD and Ghanaian Cedis (GHS) for quick reference. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so confirm the current rate at a licensed bureau de change when making payment.
Complete UK Visa Fee Table in Ghana Cedis 2026
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| 6-month Visitor visa | $180 | GHS 1,980 |
| 2-year Visitor visa | $674 | GHS 7,414 |
| 5-year Visitor visa | $1,203 | GHS 13,233 |
| 10-year Visitor visa | $1,502 | GHS 16,522 |
| Student visa | $743 | GHS 8,173 |
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | $1,091 | GHS 12,001 |
| Health & Care Worker (up to 3 years) | $431 | GHS 4,741 |
| Spouse/Partner visa | $2,749 | GHS 30,239 |
| Priority service (5 working days) | ~$709 | ~GHS 7,799 |
| Super Priority (next working day) | ~$1,417 | ~GHS 15,587 |
For the most current fee information, use the official Home Office visa fee calculator which displays Ghana fees in USD. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is always charged in GBP (£776 per year for students, £1,035 per year for most other visa categories) and must be paid separately online before your appointment.
UK Visitor Visa Fee in Ghana 2026
The UK visitor visa fee for 6 months from Ghana is $180 (GHS 1,980). Long-term visitor visas are available: 2-year costs $674 (GHS 7,414), 5-year costs $1,203 (GHS 13,233), and 10-year costs $1,502 (GHS 16,522). Ghana's 57% visitor grant rate—with 20,693 refusals—is the 2nd lowest among major nationalities.
The Standard Visitor visa is the most common visa type for Ghanaians travelling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or short courses. Regardless of which visa duration you choose, each visit to the UK is limited to a maximum of 6 months.
According to Home Office statistics, 20,693 Ghanaian visitor visa applications were refused in the year ending September 2025—the 7th highest refusal volume globally. The 57% grant rate compares poorly to countries like South Africa (96%) and China (91%), reflecting stricter scrutiny on financial evidence, travel history, and ties to Ghana.
Standard Visitor Visa Fees from Ghana 2026
| Visa Duration | Fee (USD) | Fee (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months (single/multiple entry) | $180 | GHS 1,980 |
| 2 years (long-term) | $674 | GHS 7,414 |
| 5 years (long-term) | $1,203 | GHS 13,233 |
| 10 years (long-term) | $1,502 | GHS 16,522 |
| Marriage Visitor visa | $180 | GHS 1,980 |
| Visiting Academic (6-12 months) | $312 | GHS 3,432 |
Transit Visa Fees from Ghana
Ghanaian nationals transiting through UK airports require a transit visa. The Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) costs $55 (GHS 605) for passengers who remain in the airport transit area. For those passing through UK border control, the Visitor in Transit visa costs $99 (GHS 1,089).
UK Student Visa Fee in Ghana 2026
The UK student visa fee from Ghana is $743 (GHS 8,173). Students must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year of study. Ghana ranks #10 globally for student visa applications, with 4,915 visas granted and an 85% grant rate in the year ending September 2025—still below the 95% global average.
The UK Student visa allows Ghanaian students to study at UK educational institutions. Applicants need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor, proof of English language proficiency, and evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
The 85% student visa grant rate for Ghanaians is below the global average of 95%, with 698 applications refused. Strong financial documentation, clear study plans, and evidence of academic progression are essential for Ghanaian student applicants.
| Study Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Student visa (main applicant) | $743 | GHS 8,173 |
| Child Student visa | $743 | GHS 8,173 |
| Short-term English study (6-11 months) | $304 | GHS 3,344 |
| Parent of Child Student visa | $967 | GHS 10,637 |
| IHS (per year of study) | £776 | Paid in GBP |
The total cost for a 1-year master's programme would be approximately $743 visa fee plus £776 IHS, giving a combined outlay of around GHS 8,173 plus the IHS payment. The IHS is always paid in British Pounds directly online and cannot be converted to Cedis at application.
UK Work Visa Fee in Ghana 2026
The UK Skilled Worker visa fee from Ghana is $1,091 (GHS 12,001) for up to 3 years, or $2,154 (GHS 23,694) for over 3 years. Health and Care Worker visas have reduced fees of $431 (GHS 4,741). Ghana ranks #9 for total work visa applications with a 60% grant rate—among the lowest for major nationalities.
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for Ghanaians seeking employment in the UK. This visa requires sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence and a minimum salary of £38,700 (or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher). Healthcare professionals may qualify for the reduced-fee Health and Care Worker visa.
Home Office statistics reveal significant challenges for Ghanaian work visa applicants. The 65% Skilled Worker grant rate (1,835 refused) compares poorly to the 83% global average. Temporary Worker visas are even more difficult, with just a 37% grant rate (728 refused)—the lowest among all major nationalities.
Skilled Worker & Health Care Visa Fees from Ghana
| Work Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | $1,091 | GHS 12,001 |
| Skilled Worker (over 3 years) | $2,154 | GHS 23,694 |
| Intra-company (up to 3 years) | $837 | GHS 9,207 |
| Intra-company (over 3 years) | $1,645 | GHS 18,095 |
| Health & Care (up to 3 years) | $431 | GHS 4,741 |
| Health & Care (over 3 years) | $837 | GHS 9,207 |
| Global Talent (with Approval Letter) | $291 | GHS 3,201 |
| Temporary Worker / GBM routes | $452 | GHS 4,972 |
| High Potential Individual / Scale-up | $1,248 | GHS 13,728 |
| Innovator Founder | $1,807 | GHS 19,877 |
Global Business Mobility Visa Fees from Ghana
The Global Business Mobility routes enable Ghanaian professionals to transfer to UK branches of their companies:
- Senior or Specialist Worker (up to 3 years): $1,091 (GHS 12,001)
- Senior or Specialist Worker (over 3 years): $2,154 (GHS 23,694)
- Graduate Trainee: $452 (GHS 4,972)
- UK Expansion Worker: $452 (GHS 4,972)
- Service Supplier: $452 (GHS 4,972)
UK Spouse & Family Visa Fee in Ghana 2026
The UK spouse visa fee from Ghana is $2,749 (GHS 30,239). This covers the 33-month initial visa for partners, fiancé(e)s, and children joining family settled in the UK. Processing takes up to 12 weeks standard, or 6 weeks with priority. Ghana ranks #11 for family visa applications with a 78% grant rate (451 refusals from 2,306 applications).
The UK Spouse visa enables Ghanaian nationals to join their British citizen or settled partner in the UK. The UK sponsor must meet a minimum income requirement of £29,000 (rising to £38,700 from 2025). After two visa extensions totalling 5 years, successful applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
| Family Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse/Partner/Child visa | $2,749 | GHS 30,239 |
| Fiancé(e) visa | $2,749 | GHS 30,239 |
| Adult Dependent Relative | $4,840 | GHS 53,240 |
| Parent of Child Student | $967 | GHS 10,637 |
The 78% family visa grant rate for Ghanaians (451 refusals) is below the 85% global average. Common refusal reasons include insufficient evidence of the financial requirement, concerns about the genuineness of the relationship, and inadequate English language test results. For more information on the income threshold, see our guide on spouse visa financial requirements.
UK Priority Visa Fee in Ghana 2026
The UK priority visa fee in Ghana is approximately $709 (GHS 7,799) for a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority costs approximately $1,417 (GHS 15,587) for a next-working-day decision. These fees are in addition to the standard visa fee and are subject to availability at VFS Global Accra.
Standard UK visa processing time from Ghana is approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for visitor and student visas. For urgent applications, priority processing services can significantly reduce waiting times.
| Service | Processing Time | Fee (USD / GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Processing | 3 weeks (15 working days) | Included in visa fee |
| Priority Service | 5 working days | ~$709 (~GHS 7,799) |
| Super Priority Service | Next working day | ~$1,417 (~GHS 15,587) |
| Settlement Priority | 6 weeks | ~$709 (~GHS 7,799) |
Priority and Super Priority fees are calculated from the GBP rates (£500 and £1,000 respectively) using the prevailing exchange rate. These services may be temporarily suspended for certain visa categories during peak periods. Availability can be checked on the VFS Global Ghana booking portal when scheduling your biometrics appointment.
How to Apply for UK Visa from Ghana
The UK visa application process from Ghana involves completing an online application on gov.uk, paying the visa fee in USD, and attending a biometrics appointment at VFS Global Accra. For guidance on completing the application form, see our UK visa application form guide.
- Step 1: Complete online application on gov.uk and pay visa fee (USD)
- Step 2: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge online (if applicable, for visas 6+ months)
- Step 3: Book biometrics appointment via VFS Global Ghana portal
- Step 4: Obtain TB test certificate from approved clinic (if staying 6+ months)
- Step 5: Attend VFS Global appointment with passport and supporting documents
- Step 6: Wait for decision (3 weeks standard) and collect passport
UK Visa Application Centre in Ghana
- VFS Global Accra: The Grand Oyeeman, South Liberation Link, Airport Residential Area, Accra
- Services: Biometric enrolment, document submission, premium lounge, passport courier
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00–15:00 (appointments required)
TB Test Requirement for Ghanaian Applicants
Ghanaians applying for UK visas of 6 months or longer must provide a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from a Home Office approved clinic in Ghana. The IOM clinic in Accra is the primary approved provider for TB testing. The certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issue, so plan your test within this window before submitting your application.
- 6-month Visitor visa: $180 (GHS 1,980) — 57% grant rate, 20,693 refusals
- Student visa: $743 (GHS 8,173) plus IHS — 85% grant rate, best route for Ghanaians
- Skilled Worker visa: $1,091–$2,154 — 65% grant rate, employer sponsorship required
- Spouse visa: $2,749 (GHS 30,239) — 78% grant rate, 12-week standard processing
- Priority service: ~$709 (GHS 7,799) for 5-day processing at VFS Global Accra
- All fees paid in USD — confirm GHS conversion at current Bank of Ghana rate
For the most current fee information, check the official Home Office visa fee calculator. If your application is refused, see our guide on UK visa refusal reasons and chances of approval after refusal.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Visa Fees in Ghana
How much is UK visa fee in Ghana 2026?
The UK visa fee in Ghana depends on the visa type. The 6-month Standard Visitor visa costs $180 (GHS 1,980), 2-year visitor visa is $674 (GHS 7,414), Student visa is $743 (GHS 8,173), Skilled Worker visa is $1,091 (GHS 12,001), and Spouse visa is $2,749 (GHS 30,239). All fees are charged in USD and paid through the gov.uk application portal.
How much is UK visa fee in Ghana Cedis?
UK visa fees in Ghana Cedis at approximately GHS 11 per USD (February 2026): 6-month visitor visa is GHS 1,980, 2-year visitor visa is GHS 7,414, 5-year visitor visa is GHS 13,233, 10-year visitor visa is GHS 16,522, Student visa is GHS 8,173, and Spouse visa is GHS 30,239. Exchange rates fluctuate daily—confirm the current rate at any licensed forex bureau.
How much is UK priority visa fee in Ghana?
The UK priority visa fee in Ghana is approximately $709 (GHS 7,799) for a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority service costs approximately $1,417 (GHS 15,587) for a next-working-day decision. These fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee and are subject to availability at VFS Global Accra.
How much is UK student visa fee in Ghana 2026?
The UK student visa fee from Ghana is $743 (GHS 8,173). Additionally, students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year of study directly in British Pounds. Ghana has an 85% student visa grant rate according to Home Office statistics (year ending September 2025), with 4,915 visas granted from 5,761 applications.
How long does UK visa take from Ghana?
Standard UK visa processing from Ghana takes approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for visitor and student visas. Settlement and family visas take up to 12 weeks. Priority service (~$709) reduces processing to 5 working days, while Super Priority (~$1,417) provides a next-working-day decision. Processing may take longer during peak application seasons.
Where can I apply for UK visa in Ghana?
UK visa applications in Ghana are submitted through VFS Global at The Grand Oyeeman, South Liberation Link, Airport Residential Area, Accra. Book appointments via the VFS Global Ghana portal after completing your online application on gov.uk. The centre is open Monday to Friday, 08:00–15:00, and offers biometric enrolment, document submission, premium lounge, and passport courier services.
What is the UK visa success rate for Ghanaians?
UK visa success rates for Ghanaians vary by category (year ending September 2025). Student visas have the highest grant rate at 85%. Family visas achieve 78%. Skilled Worker visas have a 65% grant rate. Visitor visas have the lowest success at just 57%, with 20,693 refusals—the 2nd lowest among major nationalities (only Bangladesh is lower at 48%). Temporary Worker visas are worst at 37%. To improve your chances, provide comprehensive financial evidence, demonstrate strong ties to Ghana, and consider professional legal guidance.
What are the UK visa requirements for Ghanaians?
UK visa requirements for Ghanaian nationals include a valid Ghanaian passport, completed online application form, proof of financial funds, evidence of accommodation arrangements, travel itinerary, and proof of ties to Ghana (employment, property, family). For visas of 6 months or longer, a TB test certificate from an approved clinic in Accra is required. Student visas require a CAS from a UK institution plus English language evidence. Given the 57% visitor visa refusal rate, Ghanaians should ensure all documents are comprehensive and professionally presented.
Do I need a TB test for UK visa from Ghana?
Yes, Ghanaian applicants must provide a TB test certificate for any UK visa lasting 6 months or longer. This includes student visas, work visas, and family visas. The test must be taken at a Home Office approved clinic—the IOM clinic in Accra is the primary approved provider. The certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. Short-term visitor visas (6 months or less) do not require a TB test.
How much is UK 5-year visitor visa fee in Ghana?
The UK 5-year long-term visitor visa fee from Ghana is $1,203 (approximately GHS 13,233). This multi-entry visa allows unlimited visits over 5 years, with each stay limited to 6 months. It offers good value for frequent travellers compared to applying for separate 6-month visas ($180 each). The 2-year option costs $674 (GHS 7,414) and the 10-year visa is $1,502 (GHS 16,522).