So you’re thinking about moving to Ghana? Maybe you’ve visited and fell in love with the warmth of the people. Perhaps you’re chasing a work opportunity, or you’re part of the growing diaspora returning to their roots. Whatever brought you here, let me tell you, you’re in for an adventure.
I’m not going to sugarcoat it. Moving to Ghana from the US or UK isn’t just hopping across to Canada or France. It’s a proper life change. The good news? Thousands of Americans and Brits are thriving here, and with the right preparation, you can too.
This guide isn’t another generic “10 things to know” list. It’s the real deal, the stuff people wish they’d known before boarding that plane. From the shocking reality of paying two years’ rent upfront to finding out your fancy American health insurance means nothing here, we’re covering it all.
Grab a cup of tea (or coffee if you’re American), and let’s dive into what living in Ghana really means in 2025.
Why Ghana? Why Now?
First things first – Ghana is having a moment. Since the Year of Return in 2019 and Beyond the Return initiatives, the country has rolled out the red carpet for the diaspora. In 2025, it’s easier than ever for African Americans and Black Brits to connect with their heritage here. But it’s not just about roots – Ghana offers:
- Political stability in a region where that’s not always guaranteed
- English as the official language (though you’ll want to pick up some Twi)
- A growing economy with real opportunities in tech, finance, and entrepreneurship
- Genuine warmth from locals who actually want you here (mostly)
But here’s what Instagram won’t tell you: Ghana will test your patience, flexibility, and ability to laugh at chaos. If you can’t handle a four-hour traffic jam or power cutting out during your Zoom call, this might not be for you.
The Visa Reality Check (It’s Complicated)
For Americans
Let’s start with the basics. You need a visa. Period. Forget what you heard about visa on arrival – that’s typically a temporary December thing for tourism promotion. Here’s what you’re really looking at:
Tourist Visa:
- Single entry: $60-100
- Valid for 90 days from issue (not from arrival!)
- Must be used within 3 months
- Can’t work on this (seriously, don’t try)
The Pre-Approval Dance: Unless it’s the holiday season (December 1 – January 15), you need pre-approval for visa on arrival. The process is about as fun as it sounds. Apply at least 3 months before travel but not more than 3 months (yes, there’s a sweet spot).
What You Actually Need:
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (non-negotiable)
- Return ticket (or a really good story)
- Invitation letter or hotel booking
- Two passport photos (CVS does them)
- Proof you can afford to be here
Work Permits: If you’re planning to work, buckle up. The work permit process makes the DMV look efficient. Budget 3-6 months and about $500-1000 in fees. Many people work illegally on tourist visas – don’t be that person. Immigration raids happen, and deportation is real.
For Brits
Similar story, different accent. UK citizens face the same requirements, though sometimes the processing is slightly faster through the Ghana High Commission in London.
Pro tip from Sarah in Accra: “Don’t use those visa service companies charging £300+. The High Commission website works fine if you’re patient. Save that money for your rent deposit – you’ll need it.”
The Permanent Residence Dream
After five years of continuous residence (with at least 12 straight months before applying), you can apply for permanent residence. Sounds simple? It’s not. You need:
- Proof of continuous residence (keep every receipt, every stamp)
- Clean criminal record from home and Ghana
- Health clearance
- Proof of income/employment
- About $500 in fees
- The patience of a saint
Reality check: Many long-term expats just keep renewing work permits. It’s annoying but often easier than the permanent residence maze.
Money Talks: The Real Cost of Living
Let’s talk numbers – real numbers from people actually living here in 2025, not some outdated blog from 2019.
The Accra Tax
Living in Accra is like choosing to live in London or New York – you’re paying for the privilege. Here’s what you’re really looking at monthly:
Housing (The Big Shock):
- East Legon/Airport Residential (expat central): $1,000-2,500/month
- Osu/Labone (trendy, central): $700-1,500/month
- Madina/Adenta (suburban, local): $300-700/month
- Outside Accra (if you’re brave): $150-400/month
But here’s the kicker – you pay 1-2 years upfront. Yes, you read that right. That $1,500/month apartment? Hand over $36,000 cash. Right now. In dollars, preferably.
Mark from Birmingham shares: “I nearly fell over when they asked for two years upfront. Thought it was a scam. Nope, that’s just Ghana. Negotiate for one year if you can, but have the cash ready.”
Daily Living Costs (The Mixed Bag)
Groceries:
- Local markets (cheap and cheerful): $100-200/month
- Supermarkets with imported goods: $400-600/month
- That box of American cereal: $12 (I’m not joking)
- Local rice (per bag): $30
- Imported wine: $25+ (local palm wine: $2)
Utilities (The Hidden Killer):
- Electricity (with AC running): $100-200/month
- Water: $20-30/month
- Internet (when it works): $30-50/month
- Generator fuel (because power cuts): $50+/month
Transportation:
- Uber/Bolt around town: $5-15/ride
- Monthly car rental: $500-800
- Buying a decent used car: $10,000-20,000
- Trotro (local minibus): $0.50-2 (adventure included)
The Expat Premium
Here’s what nobody tells you – everything costs more when you’re obviously foreign. That taxi ride? Tourist price. That apartment? Expat tax added. That souvenir? Special price for you, my friend.
Lisa from Texas learned: “I started sending my Ghanaian friends to negotiate everything. Saved me 30-50% on most things. Pride is expensive here.”
Budget Reality for Different Lifestyles
Surviving (Basic but Doable): $1,000-1,500/month
- Shared accommodation or local area
- Local food mostly
- Public transport
- Local healthcare
Comfortable (Most Expats): $2,000-3,500/month
- Nice apartment in decent area
- Mix of local and imported food
- Uber everywhere
- International health insurance
- Occasional nights out
Living Large (The Executive Life): $4,000+/month
- Premium housing in East Legon
- Imported everything
- Driver and car
- International school for kids
- Country club membership
Finding a Home (Without Losing Your Mind)
The Neighborhoods Decoded
Airport Residential Area
- The expat bubble extraordinaire
- Walking distance to Marina Mall
- Embassies everywhere
- Safe but sterile
- Verdict: Good for newbies, boring long-term
East Legon
- Where successful Ghanaians and expats mix
- Great restaurants and nightlife
- International schools nearby
- Traffic is horrific
- Verdict: Perfect if you can afford it
Osu
- The Brooklyn of Accra
- Best nightlife and restaurants
- Young, diverse crowd
- Can be noisy
- Verdict: Great for singles and young couples
Cantonments
- Old money area
- Quiet, green, established
- Good for families
- Limited nightlife
- Verdict: Perfect for families with kids
The Local Areas (Madina, Adenta, Kasoa)
- Real Ghana experience
- Fraction of the price
- Longer commutes
- Less “expat-friendly” amenities
- Verdict: For the adventurous on a budget
The House Hunting Survival Guide
- Never rent without viewing – Photos lie more than politicians here
- Check water pressure – Seriously, turn every tap
- Ask about generator/inverter – “24/7 power” means they have backup
- Inspect for mold – Humidity is real
- Negotiate everything – Initial price is fantasy
- Get receipts for everything – Your landlord will “forget” your payments
- Take photos of everything – Document every crack, stain, and broken tile
- Read the lease carefully – “Furnished” might mean one plastic chair
Tom’s Nightmare Story: “Paid two years upfront for a ‘luxury’ apartment. Moved in to find no running water for two weeks, AC didn’t work, and the ‘gym’ was a broken treadmill in a closet. Document EVERYTHING before paying.”
Gated Communities vs. Regular Housing
Gated Communities (Trasacco Valley, Regimanuel Grey):
- 24/7 security
- Reliable utilities
- Community amenities
- Expensive ($2,000-5,000/month)
- Can feel isolated
Regular Neighborhoods:
- More authentic experience
- Significantly cheaper
- Utility issues common
- Security varies
- Better integration with locals
Healthcare: The Good, The Bad, The Expensive
Let’s be honest – healthcare is probably your biggest concern after housing. Here’s the real story.
The Public System (NHIS)
Ghana has a National Health Insurance Scheme that technically covers expats. For about $50/year, you get:
- Basic consultations
- Some medications
- Emergency treatment
- Long queues
- Variable quality
Reality: Most expats use NHIS for minor issues only. “I use it for malaria treatment and basic stuff,” says Jennifer from London. “For anything serious, I go private.”
Private Healthcare (Where You’ll Actually Go)
The Good Hospitals:
- Nyaho Medical Centre (Accra) – The expat favorite
- Akai House Clinic – Expensive but excellent
- Swedish Medical Centre – Good middle ground
- Bank Hospital – Surprisingly good despite the name
Costs Without Insurance:
- Consultation: $30-100
- Blood tests: $50-200
- X-ray: $50-150
- Overnight stay: $200-500
- Emergency surgery: $2,000-10,000+
International Health Insurance (Not Optional)
Unless your company provides it, budget $150-400/month for decent international coverage. Companies like Cigna, Allianz, and IMG are popular.
What to look for:
- Direct billing at major hospitals
- Medical evacuation coverage (crucial!)
- Coverage in South Africa or Europe
- Dental and optical (usually extra)
David’s Close Call: “Had appendicitis in Kumasi. Local hospital wanted to operate immediately. My insurance flew me to Accra for surgery at a better facility. That evacuation coverage saved me from a sketchy situation.”
Health Realities You Need to Know
- Malaria is real – Take prophylaxis or get very good at recognizing symptoms
- Water isn’t safe – Budget for bottled or filtered water always
- Pharmacies are everywhere – But fake drugs exist, stick to reputable chains
- Medical supplies can run out – Bring critical medications from home
- Blood supply is limited – Know your blood type and where to get it
Education: School Fees That’ll Make You Cry
Got kids? Sit down for this part. Education in Ghana for expat kids is excellent but expensive.
International Schools (The Only Real Option)
Let’s be real – you’re not sending your kids to local public schools. The teaching style, facilities, and curriculum just won’t match what they’re used to. Here are your options:
Top Tier ($15,000-30,000/year per child):
- Lincoln Community School – Full IB program, American-style
- British International School – Proper British education
- American International School – New IB World School status
Mid Tier ($8,000-15,000/year):
- Ghana International School – Good reputation, been around forever
- Galaxy International School – Decent academics, more affordable
- Roman Ridge School – British curriculum, good value
Budget Options ($4,000-8,000/year):
- Various smaller international schools
- Quality varies significantly
- Research thoroughly
The Hidden Costs:
- Registration fees: $500-2,000 (non-refundable)
- Uniforms: $300-500
- Books and supplies: $500-1,000
- School bus: $150-300/month
- Lunch: $100-200/month
- “Development levy”: $500-1,500/year
Single Mom Michelle’s Advice: “The fees they advertise are maybe 60% of actual cost. Budget for all the extras. And some schools want payment in dollars – factor in exchange rate fluctuations.”
The Homeschooling Option
Small but growing community of homeschoolers. Legal but you’re on your own. Facebook groups are your friend. Budget for:
- Curriculum: $500-2,000/year
- Tutors: $20-50/hour
- Co-op activities: Variable
Working in Ghana (Legally, Please)
The Job Market Reality
Unless you’re transferred by a company or have serious specialized skills, finding work is tough. The government limits foreign employment in many sectors, and competition is fierce.
Where Expats Actually Work:
- International NGOs
- Oil and gas companies
- Tech startups (growing sector)
- International schools (if you’re a teacher)
- Their own businesses (popular but complicated)
Salaries:
- NGO work: $2,000-5,000/month
- Corporate: $3,000-10,000/month
- Teaching: $1,500-3,000/month
- Local companies: $500-2,000/month
Starting a Business (The Entrepreneurial Dream)
Many expats come with grand business plans. Reality check:
What You Need:
- $50,000 minimum capital (legally)
- Ghanaian partners (for some sectors)
- Patience for bureaucracy
- Thick skin for corruption attempts
- 6-12 months before profitability
Success Story: “Opened a restaurant in Osu. Took 8 months to get all permits, spent double my budget, nearly quit five times. Now profitable and expanding. Ghana rewards persistence,” – James from New York.
The Digital Nomad Fantasy
Ghana doesn’t have a digital nomad visa yet, despite promises. Working remotely on a tourist visa is technically illegal but commonly done.
Internet Reality:
- Fiber available in major areas
- 4G decent but inconsistent
- Power cuts will interrupt calls
- Co-working spaces exist but aren’t cheap ($100-300/month)
Daily Life: The Things Nobody Mentions
“Ghana Time” Is Real
If someone says 2 PM, they mean 3:30. If they say “I’m coming,” they haven’t left yet. If they say “please, small,” they want a favor. Adjust your expectations or lose your mind.
Traffic Will Break You
Accra traffic is special. Leave at 5 AM to arrive by 9 AM for a 10-mile journey. Not exaggerating. Friday evenings? Just stay home.
Survival Tips:
- Live close to work or work remotely
- Learn alternative routes
- Keep snacks and water in the car
- Download podcasts and audiobooks
- Accept it as meditation time
Social Life and Dating
The Expat Bubble:
- Monthly mixers at various hotels
- WhatsApp groups for everything
- Same 200 people at every event
- Drama travels fast
Dating Scene:
- Lots of options if you’re single
- Cultural differences are real
- “Sponsorship” expectations exist
- Mixed relationships can face challenges
- Dating apps work in Accra
The Things You’ll Miss
- Amazon Prime delivery
- Consistent customer service
- Sidewalks (yes, really)
- Your favorite snacks
- Anonymous living
- Seasonal weather changes
The Things You’ll Love
- Genuine human connections
- Vibrant culture everywhere
- Year-round sunshine
- Fresh tropical fruits
- Slower pace of life (eventually)
- The feeling of community
The Cultural Adjustment Curve
Month 1-3: The Honeymoon
Everything is new! The food is amazing! People are so friendly! This is paradise!
Month 4-6: The Frustration
Why does everything take forever? Why is this so expensive? Why doesn’t anything work properly?
Month 7-12: The Adjustment
You learn the systems. You find your people. You lower your expectations. You start to get it.
Year 2+: The Decision
You either love it and can’t imagine leaving, or you’re counting days until your contract ends. There’s rarely a middle ground.
Safety and Security (The Honest Truth)
Ghana is generally safe, but you need street smarts.
Crime Reality
- Petty theft is common
- Armed robbery exists but is rare in expat areas
- Scams target foreigners constantly
- Police corruption is real
- Road safety is the biggest danger
Staying Safe
- Don’t flash wealth
- Vary your routines
- Live in secure housing
- Keep emergency cash hidden
- Build local relationships
- Trust your instincts
Security Incident from Rachel: “Got robbed by guys on a motorbike in traffic. They smashed the window, grabbed my bag. Now I keep windows up, doors locked, and valuables hidden. It’s not paradise, but it’s not a war zone either.”
The Mental Health Factor
Nobody talks about this enough. Living in Ghana can be isolating, frustrating, and emotionally draining, especially initially.
Common Challenges
- Isolation from family
- Cultural misunderstandings
- Career frustrations
- Relationship stress
- Health anxieties
- Infrastructure fatigue
Coping Strategies
- Build a support network quickly
- Find a therapist (yes, they exist here)
- Exercise regularly (join a gym with generators)
- Take breaks – fly to Kigali or Dubai occasionally
- Connect with other expats
- Learn to laugh at chaos
Making the Decision: Should You Move?
You’ll Thrive If You’re:
- Flexible and patient
- Genuinely interested in African culture
- Comfortable with uncertainty
- Good at building relationships
- Financially prepared
- Ready for adventure
You’ll Struggle If You:
- Need everything to work perfectly
- Can’t handle heat and humidity
- Are inflexible about lifestyle changes
- Don’t have financial cushion
- Expect American/British efficiency
- Can’t laugh at yourself
The 2025 Specifics
What’s Changed Recently
The Good:
- More international brands arriving
- Uber/Bolt everywhere in major cities
- Fiber internet expanding rapidly
- More direct flights from US/UK
- Growing startup ecosystem
- Better international food options
The Challenging:
- Inflation hitting hard (30%+ annually)
- Cedi depreciation continues
- Housing shortage worse
- Traffic somehow got worse
- Power situation still unstable
- Healthcare costs rising
Current Exchange Rates (November 2025)
- 1 USD = 15.4 GHS (approximately)
- 1 GBP = 19.2 GHS (approximately)
- Rates fluctuate wildly – budget accordingly
Your Pre-Arrival Checklist
6 Months Before
- Start visa process
- Research neighborhoods
- Join Ghana expat Facebook groups
- Start learning basic Twi
- Get yellow fever vaccine
- Research schools (if applicable)
3 Months Before
- Secure housing (virtually if necessary)
- Arrange health insurance
- Ship belongings (sea freight takes forever)
- Open Wise or similar account
- Stock up on medications
- Update all documents
1 Month Before
- Confirm accommodation
- Buy electronics (cheaper at home)
- Pack comfort items
- Download offline maps
- Arrange airport pickup
- Set up WhatsApp (essential here)
First Week Priorities
- Get local SIM card
- Open bank account (Stanbic or Ecobank)
- Register with your embassy
- Find nearest hospital
- Locate reliable supermarket
- Join expat groups
The Financial Reality Check
What Your Budget Really Needs
Minimum to Survive:
- Single person: $1,500/month
- Couple: $2,500/month
- Family with kids: $4,000/month
To Live Comfortably:
- Single person: $2,500/month
- Couple: $4,000/month
- Family with kids: $6,000+/month
Initial Setup Costs:
- Housing (1-2 years upfront): $12,000-50,000
- Car purchase: $10,000-25,000
- Household setup: $3,000-8,000
- School fees (upfront): $5,000-30,000 per child
- Emergency fund: $5,000-10,000
Total Initial Investment: $35,000-100,000+ (yes, really)
The Unfiltered Truth from Long-Term Expats
Tom (5 years, from London): “Ghana broke me down and built me back up. I’m more patient, more grateful, more connected to humanity. But it took two years of frustration to get here.”
Sarah (3 years, from Texas): “Came for a two-year contract, still here. My kids have a childhood I could never give them in Houston. They play outside, know their neighbors, understand struggle and joy. Worth every frustration.”
Michael (7 years, from Manchester): “Built a business, married a Ghanaian, proper settled. But I still have days where I want to throw my laptop at the wall when the power cuts for the fifth time. It’s not easy, but it’s real.”
Jennifer (2 years, from California): “Leaving next month. Gave it my best shot, but the infrastructure issues, health scares, and distance from family are too much. No regrets, but Ghana isn’t for everyone.”
The Bottom Line
Moving to Ghana isn’t just changing your address – it’s changing your entire life paradigm. You’ll go from a world where systems mostly work to one where relationships make things work. From anonymous living to being “obroni” (foreigner) everywhere. From predictable days to constant surprises.
But here’s what those who stay will tell you: Ghana changes you. It strips away the superficial and forces you to focus on what matters. Community. Resilience. Joy in simple things. Human connection.
You’ll have days when you want to book the next flight home. You’ll have days when you can’t imagine living anywhere else. Most days will be somewhere in between, navigating the beautiful chaos that is Ghana.
Your Support Network
Essential Facebook Groups
- “Expats in Accra”
- “Americans in Ghana”
- “Brits in Ghana”
- “Accra Restaurant Reviews”
- “Houses for Rent in Accra”
- “Ghana Expat Moms/Dads”
WhatsApp Groups (Ask to Join When You Arrive)
- Area-specific groups
- School parent groups
- Activity groups (hiking, tennis, etc.)
- Business networking groups
- Emergency/security groups
Key Websites
- Ghana Immigration Service: www.gis.gov.gh
- US Embassy Ghana: gh.usembassy.gov
- UK High Commission: www.gov.uk/world/ghana
- Expat Arrivals Ghana: expatarrivals.com/africa/ghana
- Tourispot Ghana : tourispotghana.com
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 191 (good luck)
- Fire: 192
- Ambulance: 193 (have a backup plan)
- US Embassy: +233 30 274 1000
- UK High Commission: +233 30 221 3250
Final Words of Wisdom
If you’ve made it this far, you’re serious about this move. Good. Ghana needs serious people, those willing to push through the frustration to find the magic underneath.
Come with money (more than you think you need). Come with patience (more than you think you have). Come with humility (more than you think necessary). Come with humor (you’ll need it daily).
Most importantly, come with an open heart. Ghana will test you, frustrate you, and challenge everything you thought you knew about how life should work. But if you let it, Ghana will also teach you, change you, and show you a way of life that’s richer in ways that have nothing to do with money.
The expats who thrive here are the ones who stop trying to make Ghana like home and start making Ghana their home. There’s a difference, and it’s everything.
Welcome to Ghana. It’s going to be one hell of a ride.
Remember: This guide reflects conditions in November 2025. Things change quickly in Ghana (or sometimes not at all for decades). Join the Facebook groups, ask current expats, and always verify information. And whatever you do, get that yellow fever vaccine – they’re not joking about that one.
One Last Thing: When you get here and feel overwhelmed, remember, every successful expat felt exactly the same way. The difference between those who stay and those who leave isn’t the challenges they face; it’s how they choose to face them. Choose wisely.
Akwaaba (Welcome) to your new adventure.