Statement: Ghana High Commission in the UK announces new visa application procedures

The Ghana High Commission in the UK is in the process of introducing automated visa and passport application services to facilitate online visa and passport applications.

This is in line with the Mission's objective to improve consular services to its clients. The Ghana High Commission to the UK which has its main offices in London but operates consular offices in Scotland and Ireland, hereby announces that with effect from 17th January 2011, visa and passport applicants can complete their applications online at the Mission's website www.ghanahighcommissionuk.com.

The new procedure is the second phase of the modernization process started in 2009. The first phase was the introduction of the uploading of visa and passport application forms on the Mission's website which enabled applicants to download, complete and submit applications to the Consular section for processing.

This system offered a cost free visa/passport application form service to clients.

This second phase allows applicants wishing to apply for Ghanaian visas or passports to log onto the Mission's website at www.ghanahighcommissionuk.com and select the required service.

Applicants will then fill the form online. Upon completion, applicants will automatically submit the application online. Hard, signed copies of the submitted forms, together with all the required supporting documents should then be posted to the Mission. Visa and passport processing fees may be paid by credit/debit cards or by postal orders or bank drafts.

Applicant's supporting documents will be returned to him/her after the application process with a unique tracking reference via DX secure mail delivery services www.thedx.co.uk.

The Mission will use text messaging and email services to notify applicants when the Mission receives their documents, and when their approved applications are ready for collection or dispatch.

The new facility makes allowance for applicants who may wish to submit applications in person. Such applicants can do so only by obtaining appointments online. Appointments will be controlled and operated on a first come first served basis.

Visa/Passport processing time remains unchanged (visit www.ghanahighcommissionuk.com for more information.

The automated system, however would facilitate a 24 and 72 hour expedited processing service which will attract additional cost. Terms and conditions will apply.

This additional service will reduce the long wait that characterise passport or visa applications. It will also reduce the number of visits applicants would normally make to the Mission.

The High Commission assures all applicants that the online application system would facilitate an improved communication process between the visa/passport applicant and the Mission
The High Commission would like to caution the general public that this online service is only available on the Mission's official website www.ghanahighcommissionuk.com.

Application forms from any other websites will be rejected.