How to apply for UK visa in Ghana

The United Kingdom visa is a formal endorsement on a passport of a foreigner by the UK government which allows the passport holder to enter and leave the United Kingdom as they wish. The visa contains vital information about the passport holder like duration of stay, purpose of visit and other details.

The UK visa allows you to enter the country, whether it is through the sea, land or air.  The possession of a visa means that you have fulfilled the requirements that the particular visa has. Whether you’re visiting family, attending a conference, or exploring the UK’s rich culture, you’ll need to apply for a UK visa before your trip.

In this article, we will help you understand the UK visa application process and procedures you need to go through in order to obtain a visa to the United Kingdom.

How to apply for UK visa in Ghana

1. Research your UK visa options

Before applying for a UK visa in Ghana, it’s important to understand the different types of visas available for travel to the UK. Depending on your plans for your journey, you may be eligible for a specific type of visa that’s tailored to your needs.

For example, you may be eligible for a visitor visa if you’re planning a short trip for leisure purposes or a student visa if you’re planning to study or work in the UK. Research the different types of UK visas available to determine which is the best option for you.

2. Gather the necessary documentation

Once you’ve identified the type of UK visa you need, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents to support your application. These documents include a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the requirements specified by the Home Office, proof of your travel plans, evidence of financial support, and any other documents relevant to your application.

3. Submit your application

The next step is to submit your application to the Home Office. This can be done in person at the UK visa application centre in Accra or online through the UK government’s official website. When submitting your application, you will need to provide evidence of your eligibility, as well as pay the required visa fee.

4. Attend the biometric appointment

Once your application has been received and accepted, you’ll be invited to attend a biometric appointment. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken and used to create a unique identifier for your visa application. You will need to attend this appointment in person at the UK visa application centre in Accra.

5. Wait for a decision

Once you’ve attended your biometric appointment, you’ll then need to wait for a decision on your application. Decisions are usually made within two to three weeks of your biometric appointment, but this can vary depending on the complexity of your application.

Why your UK visa application can be denied

Pay attention to the whole application process, since even small mistakes can lead to the rejection of your application by the UK Embassy. Some of the main reasons for visa rejection are:

1. Missing Documents.
2. Applying for the wrong type of visa.
3. Failure to prove you have the financial means to support your stay in the UK.
4. Fraudulent documents.
5. You have overstayed on a previous trip.
6. Criminal history.

How to appeal against a UK visa denial

When your visa application gets rejected, you will also be notified on the reasons behind it. If you think that this decision has not been taken justly, then you can appeal it.

1. Fill in Form IAFT-2, which is an appeal form
2. Submit it to the UK Immigration and Asylum Chamber.
3. This body will send the documents will be forwarded to the relevant authorities.
4. A new decision will be taken and communicated to the applicant in writing.
5. If the decision is not changed, you can file a new application by correcting the previous mistakes.

Cost of UK visa in Ghana

The fee charged depends on the kind of visa you choose and the length of its validity. The U.K Border Agency could also change the amount charged for each document depending on several factors.

How to pay your UK visa fee in Ghana

1. You can pay your visa fees at the center but you will have to pay an additional amount for processing.
2. You can also pay your visa fees at Guaranty Trust Bank’s three branches namely:
   • Ridge, Head Office 25A, Castle Road, Ambassadorial Area, Ridge, PMB CT416 Cantonments, Accra.
   • Labone 3rd Soula Street, adjacent to South African High Commission.
   • Osu Plot No. 577, Oxford Street, Osu R. E.

NB: After paying your visa fees, you will be provided with a receipt number which would be required when you visit the visa application center or apply online. Make sure you submit your application within one month of paying the fee as that is the length time your receipt number will be valid.

How long does it take to get a UK visa in Ghana

Securing a visa to the U.K is a process that takes up to six weeks for most applicants especially after the union tightened its migration laws recently. It is therefore beneficial to use a reputable travel agency to aid in the process.

Final words

Applying for a UK visa in Ghana can be a complex process, but with the right preparation and guidance, it’s possible to successfully secure a visa to travel to the United Kingdom. To ensure that your application is successful, be sure to research the different types of UK visas available, gather the necessary documents, and submit your application correctly.