Frequently Asked Questions

Membership is open to those who support the goals of the Association and pay a yearly membership fee. The membership fees are GH⍧ 400 per calendar year for individuals residing in Ghana and $50 per year for individuals residing outside of Ghana. Our website gives you an explanation of the different categories of membership. The website can be found at: aaaghana.org. You can fill out and submit an application on the AAAG website.

Once the membership fee is received you will be added to the AAAG Membership and Community Matters platforms on WhatsApp. These platforms will give you current information on membership happenings and the greater African American Community in Ghana. The WhatsApp application can be downloaded to your smartphone from the Play Store for Android phones or the App Store for iphones free of charge.  Our WhatsApp group helps us stay informed and connected as one community. Please follow the group guidelines so that everyone can have a positive experience. If the guidelines are not followed, members may be removed from the group with little to no warning. Thank you for helping us keep this space respectful, supportive, and enjoyable for all.

Membership fees can be made in three ways:

1. In person in Ghana at a AAAG meeting.  Please keep your physical receipt. You may need it from time to time.
2. The preferred way is by depositing them into our Mobile Money account, 020 263 9057 (from inside Ghana) 011 233 20 263 9057 (from outside Ghana). Individuals outside of Ghana can use World Remit  Sendwave  or other money transfer vendors to make a deposit into our Mobile Money account.  By using this method you will pay an additional transaction fee. 
3. You may pay online using Paystack.  Please keep your transfer receipt should you need it in the future. By using this method, you will pay an additional transaction fee.  

**General Membership** is open to all Americans of African descent by virtue of birth in the USA, its territories and possession of African American parentage (one or both) or naturalization, residing in Ghana. Yearly dues are GHc400

**Associate Membership** is open to all Continental or other Diaspora Africans residing in Ghana. Yearly dues are GHc 400

**Affiliate Membership** is open to individuals residing outside of Ghana who are defined by General or Associate membership. Yearly dues are $50 which includes transaction fees.

**Youth Membership** is open to children of African Americans, diasporans, and continental Africans between the ages of 13 and 21. Yearly dues are GHc 100 

**Organization/Patron Membership** is open to any group or individual who endorses the aims and objectives of the AAAG.  Please contact us directly.

**Corporate Membership** is open to corporations upon approval from the Executive Board. Corporate sponsorship packages may vary.  Please contact us directly.

• Apply for a visa at the Ghana Embassy at your home country to enter Ghana
• Apply for a Resident Permit at the Ghana Immigration Service to stay in Ghana for a specific period of time
• After several years as a resident, you can apply for citizenship. The process can be long and slow to reach the point of being granted citizenship. The government periodically has special ceremonies where a number of individuals are granted citizenship. For example, during the 2024 Year of Return 524 African diaspora were granted citizenship
  • Offspring and grandchildren of Ghanaian citizens are more readily granted citizenship.
• If you are married to a Ghanaian, after a number of years of residency in Ghana, you can apply to the Ministry of the Interior for dual citizenship. This is perhaps the easiest way to gain citizenship in Ghana.

You can also check out these websites for more information:
Ghana Immigration Service, Ministry of the Interior, and https://diasporaaffairs.gov.gh/

If you are visiting Ghana it might be a good idea to visit the Ghana Immigration Service and have a consultation with one of the officers in their headquarters in Accra for the most recent and up to date news on these issues.

Relocating to Ghana is a meaningful and transformative decision, and we are delighted that you are considering making Ghana your new home. The process requires careful planning and understanding of both logistical and legal requirements. Below are key steps to guide your transition:

1. Preliminary Visit: If possible, plan an initial visit to experience life in Ghana firsthand. This will allow you to explore regions, communities, and opportunities that best align with your goals.

2. Clarify Your Purpose: Determine the primary reason for your relocation—whether for business, investment, retirement, or reconnection with heritage. Your purpose will help define the appropriate visa category and residency pathway.

3. Immigration and Legal Documentation:
   • Apply for the appropriate entry visa or residence permit through the Ghana Immigration Service.

   • Persons of African descent may wish to explore the Right of Abode or Citizenship by Naturalization options, which provide long-term residency and integration benefits.

4. Housing and Financial Planning: Research residential options, cost of living, and local banking systems. It is advisable to secure temporary accommodation before making permanent arrangements.

5. Community Integration: Join established diaspora organizations such as the African American Association of Ghana (AAAG), which offers guidance, support, and community engagement opportunities for newcomers. Attend an AAAG meeting to connect directly with members, ask questions, and become part of a welcoming community.

6. Preparation for Transition: Consider health insurance, educational options, and transportation plans in advance. These factors contribute significantly to a smooth and sustainable relocation.

Relocating to Ghana represents more than a physical move—it is a reconnection with history, culture, and community. With preparation and support, your transition can be both successful and fulfilling.

AAAG does not provide resettlement services for people who want to move to Ghana. The organization’s mission is “to be recognized as a preeminent community vehicle for the cultural, social, spiritual and economic re-integration of African-American and other people of African descent returning from the diaspora into Ghanaian society.”

Although AAAG does not offer resettlement services, we can be a valuable resource for those who want to resettle in Ghana. Our membership is made up of people with many years living and working in Ghana. Once you join AAAG, you will have direct access to our Membership and Community Matters WhatsApp platforms, where your concerns can be addressed.

To learn more about AAAG activities, please visit our website:

The Social Services available to citizens in the United States are not available in Ghana. There are some Non Governmental Organizations (NGO) that focus on the needs of Ghana’s citizens, such as United Way Ghana, Habitat for Humanity, Opportunities Industrialization Center, to name a few. These cater to Ghanaian citizens only.

Ghana was colonized by the British and for some time its educational system was solely based on that of the British. Through the years it has become a hybrid of the British and U.S.system.

Ghana offers free public education for students at the Primary level through Senior High School. Public schools in Ghana are far less resourced than public schools in the U.S. If you have school age children you would probably want to consider placement in one of the many private schools or consider homeschooling, which is becoming more popular in Ghana today. Relatively compared, the cost of good private schools in Ghana is much less than in the U.S., although there are some schools which are at par with U.S. prices. Be prepared to shop around and visit schools before making choices for placement.

As of now, there are none, but there is some discussion of incentives by the Ghana government to entice and welcome diaspora (Ghanaians and others) back to Ghana.

Renting a Home in Ghana

Housing in Ghana varies widely depending on location, quality, and available amenities. Renting or leasing a home usually requires an upfront cash payment of six months or more, and in some cases, landlords may request up to two years’ rent in advance. Refunds on deposits are not guaranteed, so it is important to have a clear written agreement before making any payment.

It is also common for agents to charge a fee to show available properties—this is considered standard practice in Ghana. Rental prices in areas close to Kotoka International Airport, such as Cantonments, Airport Residential, and East Legon, can be comparable to Manhattan, New York, with some properties even exceeding rates found in the West.

For reliable information on tenants’ rights, dispute resolution, and rental regulations, contact the Rent Control Department of Ghana, a government agency that oversees housing and tenancy issues.
Visit their official website: https://rentcontrol.gov.gh.

Buying Property in Ghana

Purchasing property in Ghana can be a rewarding investment opportunity, but it is essential to proceed with caution. There is no freehold land available to non-citizens in Ghana. According to Article 266 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana,

“No interest in, or right over, any land in Ghana shall be created which vests in a person who is not a citizen of Ghana a freehold interest in any land in Ghana.”
You can read the full constitutional provision here: Article 266 – Ownership of Land by Non-Citizens.

All property ownership in Ghana is on a leasehold basis, typically ranging from 50 to 99 years, depending on the land category and ownership type.

Before purchasing, ensure that the property has a clear title and that ownership is verified through the Lands Commission. Always engage a qualified law firm or vetted lawyer to conduct due diligence and confirm that the land is free from disputes, encumbrances, or overlapping claims.

Caution: Many members of the Diaspora have experienced significant financial losses by attempting to take shortcuts or conducting transactions with unverified individuals. Do not conduct land deals with Uber or Bolt drivers, tour guides, hotel staff, taxi drivers, local chiefs, or even family members. All real estate transactions should be handled through recognized legal professionals.

Ensure that site plans and land surveys contain barcodes registered with the Lands Commission, as this confirms authenticity and official record of the surveyor’s work.

Consider purchasing through registered real-estate developments that can be vetted by the Ministry of Works and Housing, ensuring compliance with national standards and legal requirements.

Payments should always be made through verifiable channels, and all transactions must be documented in writing. The sale should include a signed Indenture (deed of conveyance) and site plan prepared by a licensed surveyor. Final registration of the property at the Lands Commission confirms ownership and protects your investment.

For verification and legal information, contact the Lands Commission of Ghana through their official website: https://landscommission.gov.gh.

AAAG Disclaimer

This information is provided by the African American Association of Ghana (AAAG) to assist Diasporans in making informed relocation decisions. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
AAAG is here to support you on your journey home.

Finding employment in Ghana is challenging. Once employment is secured, you must get a work permit from Ghana Immigration. This should be done in conjunction with the organization with which you will be working. Ghana is looking for professional and skilled applicants who have the background and experience that will satisfy the needs of the current job market. Do a Google search on “Employment Opportunities in Ghana”. You will find information on “Current jobs in Ghana” and “How to obtain a work and residence permit in Ghana”. Schools and other Academic institutions have traditionally hired expats to join their ranks. But these jobs may not be advertised widely. It is best to come to Ghana and explore the possibilities. Some may also respond to a written application to their Human Resource Departments. Some examples are:

Ghana International School
Lincoln Community School
Association International School
Morning Star School
SOS International School
Faith Montessori School
Swiss International School
Alsyd Academy
Al-Rayan School
Akosombo International School
**(These all have elementary, Junior and Senior High School Classes)**

University of Ghana, Legon
Ashesi University
Webster University
University of Professional Studies
University of Cape Coast (Cape Coast)
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (Kumasi)

**This list is not exhaustive but attempts to provide an initial place to start your research.**

Ghana is also open to you creating your own employment and/or business. Possibilities abound, but then again you must come to Ghana to explore possibilities and resources needed to take on such endeavours.

United States retirees can receive their Social Security Benefits in Ghana through the US Embassy. Contact the US Embassy to get the details on how to set that up. Another alternative is to have the benefits deposited in a US bank account and draw down on the account by using an ATM machine at a corresponding bank in Ghana. Foreign transaction fees will be incurred in the transfer.

The deaf community in Ghana tends to be isolated. Universal Ghanaian sign language is the predominant method of communication for the deaf. Due to limited resources such as the lack of availability of hearing aid devices, speech therapy and education for the deaf and the public on the Universal Ghanaian sign language, the challenges facing the deaf community are significant.

According to the Ghana National Association for the Deaf (GNAD) “The lack of resources and employment opportunities available for Ghana’s deaf community causes a severe economic deficit as many cannot work and contribute to the economy.”

Unless you are a highly skilled deaf person in the areas of competence that Ghana is looking to fill, Ghana may not be a good fit for you.

AAAG does not have an email list for non-members. We have a website (aaaghana.org) and an Instagram page (@Aaaofghana). Members of Facebook can find our Facebook page at (The African American Association of Ghana). If you join AAAG, you will be added to our WhatsApp Membership and Community Matters platforms.

Ghana has many rich and diverse cultures. There are more than 100 ethnic groups who speak50 or more languages. English is the official language, but traditional languages are still widely used. Most will agree that Asante Twi is the lingua franca. In Accra, the capital city of Ghana and home of the Ga people, Ga is also widely spoken.

Research books about life in Ghana at your local library. Search the internet about Ghanaian Culture. Join AAAG and other cultural organizations to interact with the members. Plan a visit to Ghana to see first hand what Ghana is like. Read the Ghanaian newspapers (Daily Graphic, Ghanaian Times, Business and Daily Guide) online and ghanaweb.com to familiarize yourself with local news in Ghana. Search Youtube posts about moving to Ghana. There are many out there with various views on people’s experiences with visiting and living in Ghana. Also check out “Expat Life Ghana” on Youtube. Many examples will be there.