Ghana: Authorities maintaining COVID-19 measures unchanged as of Jan. 21 /update 29

Event

As of Jan. 21, authorities in Ghana maintain COVID-19-related domestic measures and international travel restrictions largely unchanged.

Domestic Measures
Domestic overground transport and domestic flights have resumed with hygiene protocols in place. Social gatherings, such as political rallies, sporting, and religious events, remain banned while nightclubs and bars are closed. Officials have placed a limit of up to 25 people on private events such as funerals. All educational centers are opened and hotels, malls, and restaurants. The use of facemasks is compulsory in select places, and residents must adhere to at least one meter of social distancing in all public spaces nationwide. Violators face fines or custodial sentences.

International Travel Restrictions
All arriving passengers above the age of 18 must present proof of vaccination. Before arrival, passengers must complete a Health Declaration Form available by clicking here, create an account on a dedicated website accessible by clicking here and upload a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before travel. Upon arrival, passengers will be screened and tested at their expense. The cost is USD 150 or USD 50 for Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) residents. The test must be paid before travel via a website accessible by clicking here. Individuals who test positive on arrival must undergo a seven-day mandatory isolation period at a designated facility at their own expense. Passengers transiting through Accra will not be subjected to testing requirements upon arrival. All Ghanaians leaving the country must be vaccinated.

Authorities have banned travelers from Malta and South Korea from entering the country, citing health concerns due to the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant. In addition, officials said that the COVID-19 vaccination certificate issued in Malta are not recognized. Exemptions exist for travels involving humanitarian reasons and official duties under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration approval.

Land and sea borders remain closed to passenger traffic until further notice. The transport of essential goods and freight has continued, though delays are likely due to enhanced screening measures.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Ghana Ministry of Health
Health Declaration Form