The Americas are home to a significant Ghanaian diaspora, with thriving communities in the United States, Canada, and across Latin America and the Caribbean. Ghana's historical connections through the Year of Return (2019) and Beyond the Return initiatives have strengthened ties with the African-American community and the wider African diaspora in the Americas.
Key Missions
- Ghana Embassy, Washington DC — principal diplomatic mission in the US, handling diplomatic relations and consular services
- Ghana Consulate General, New York — serves the large Ghanaian community in the northeastern US
- Ghana High Commission, Ottawa — serves the Ghanaian community across Canada
- Ghana Embassy, Brasilia — covers Brazil and much of South America
- Ghana Embassy, Havana — historic ties with Cuba dating to the Nkrumah era
Right of Abode
Persons of African descent in the Americas can apply for Ghana's Right of Abode — a 10-year renewable permit to live and work in Ghana without a separate work permit.
Apply at the Ghana Embassy in Washington DC, the Consulate in New York, or through Ghana Immigration Service. Fee: approximately $150 USD.
Ghanaian Diaspora in the Americas
Over 250,000 Ghanaians live in the United States and Canada, contributing significantly to Ghana's economy through remittances and professional expertise. Common consular services used by the diaspora include:
- Passport renewal — biometric passport applications and renewals
- Birth registration — registering children born abroad as Ghanaian citizens
- Dual citizenship — applying under the Citizenship Act 2002
- Ghana Card (NIA) — registering for the national identification card
- Document authentication — for educational certificates, marriage certificates, powers of attorney