Ghana•AfricaWork and Residence Permit (Domestic Assistance)
At a Glance
Varies
Not confirmed
Check the official sourceUp to 8 years
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Work and residence permit for foreign domestic workers employed in private households in Ghana.
The Work and Residence Permit for Domestic Assistance is a specialized category designed for foreign nationals employed as domestic workers by expatriates or other foreign residents living in Ghana. This permit allows the domestic worker to legally reside and perform household duties for their employer. Because the permit is tied to the employer's status, the sponsor must already be a legal resident in Ghana with a valid work and residence permit, ensuring that the domestic worker's stay is fully accounted for under the employer's sponsorship.
To obtain this permit, the employer must formally apply to the Ghana Immigration Service on behalf of the domestic worker. The process involves verifying the employment relationship and ensuring the applicant meets health and security standards, including a mandatory medical screening at a GIS-approved facility and the acquisition of a Non-Citizen ID card. This permit is essential for maintaining legal status for household staff, such as nannies, housekeepers, or private chefs, who are accompanying or serving foreign families residing in Ghana.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Valid passport with at least six months validity
Proof of employment by a foreign national or household in Ghana
Sponsor must hold a valid work and residence permit in Ghana
Must undergo medical screening at a GIS-approved facility
Must obtain a Non-Citizen ID card (Ghana Card)
Police clearance report from the country of origin or residence
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Marriage certificate
Birth certificate
Passport photos
Police clearance
Sponsor's residence permit (sponsor)
Proof of relationship (sponsor)
Financial capacity (sponsor)
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Provides a legal mechanism for expatriates to employ domestic help
- Ensures the domestic worker has legal status and protection under Ghanaian law
Worth Knowing
- The employer is legally responsible for the worker's compliance and welfare
- Domestic workers are restricted to the duties and employer specified in the permit
- Requires adherence to the Domestic Workers Regulations (LI 2408)
Application Process
Establish relationship
Sponsor (permit holder) must have valid residence/work permit
Prepare dependent documents
Gather marriage certificates, birth certificates, or proof of relationship
Apply at GIS
Sponsor submits dependent residence permit application for family members
Document verification
GIS verifies family relationship and legitimacy
Processing
GIS processes dependent permit application
Receive permits
Collect dependent residence permits
Application Forms
| Dependent Residence Permit Application | — |
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