IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Ghanaian authorities have released new details on the new requirement that all work and residence permit applicants obtain a medical clearance certificate at a Ghana Immigration Service medical clinic in Accra.

What does the change mean? The tests conducted at the GIS clinic will include Hepatitis A and B, HIV, syphilis, lung and musculoskeletal diseases, central nervous system tests, sickle cell and others. X-rays will be performed offsite by a third-party contractor. Appointments cannot be booked; the exams will be performed on a walk-in basis only. Results will be sent within 24 hours to the work and residence permit sections and made available to applicants who request them.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate. The policy took effect Feb. 15.
  • Visas/permits affected: Work and residence permits.
  • Who is affected: Foreign employees applying for work and residence permits.
  • Impact on processing times: It is unclear how long the medical appointments will take. However, since they are taken on a walk-in basis only, applicants should prepare to wait in line at the GIS clinic.
  • Business impact: Applicants should factor in additional time for the in-country exams, including a trip to another location for X-rays.
  • Next steps: The GIS clinic will be open for exams Mondays through Fridays from noon to 4 p.m. and the government fee for the exam is 900 cedis (about US$200). X-rays will be conducted by Sunshine Medical Healthcare at the Airport Residential Area in Accra, which will assess and collect separate fees.

Background: The in-country medical exam requirement was introduced earlier in February. Although medical exams have always been required, applicants must now attend an appointment at the GIS clinic in Ghana and obtain the medical clearance certificate from the clinic.

BAL Analysis: Applicants should prepare to appear in person at the GIS clinic and undergo a medical exam as part of the work and residence permit application.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Ghana. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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