19
Dec
Ghana

Relocating to Ghana next year? Here is what you need to know | Akka Kappa

December 19, 2025

Relocation isn’t only about flights and boxes but it’s about rebuilding your daily life in a new ecosystem.  At Akka Kappa, Our specialty lies in helping assignees move to Ghana and make it their home with comprehensive support from our dedicated team. We understand that moving individuals across continents demands special care and attention to ensure a successful relocation. As the Experts on the ground, our mission is to fully assist corporations and their assignees throughout the entire transfer process, assisting them in navigating the challenges they may encounter when arriving in Ghana. If Ghana is calling (Accra, especially), these questions will help you plan smart, stay aware, land softly and adapt quickly.

 

1) What should you expect on arrival in Accra Ghana?

On arrival at Kotoka, you’ll pass a quick health check where proof of yellow fever vaccination may be requested, then proceed to immigration with your passport and the appropriate visa or pre-approved visa on arrival documents. Collect luggage, go through customs, and declare only if you are carrying a large amount of cash. In the arrivals area you’ll find ATMs, currency exchange, and mobile network desks to purchase and register a local SIM with your passport. For onward transport, use ride hailing from the app pickup area, an official airport taxi, or a prearranged hotel or corporate driver, and avoid unsolicited offers outside.

 

2) Where to Stay (short term)?

If you want five-star comfort within quick transport of December hotspots, the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra sits in the central business district which is great for art, relaxation and meetings before an evening out (Papillon, Cafe George & Bakery onsite; rooftop pool vibes). Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra is a 5-star classic near Makola and key venues; it’s also known for its art collection and generous pool deck. Prefer a resort mood within the city? Labadi Beach Hotel puts you on the water with tennis and a spa, great for post-concert detox. For value and space a short ride from the airport, Lancaster Accra (ex–Golden Tulip) offers big grounds and multiple dining options. All four make it easy to hop to daytime duties and get back fast when your feet (finally) surrender, helping you adapt to life in Ghana.

 

 

3) Which neighbourhood fits your lifestyle and long stay expectations?

Cantonments, Airport Residential, Labone, Roman Ridge, and select pockets of East Legon are the top expat picks for proximity to embassies, international schools, restaurants, and business hubs plus strong estate management and access control. When comparing homes, prioritise resilience over finishes: standby power that actually runs lifts/AC/internet, reliable water, on-site facility management, enforced visitor protocols, CCTV, perimeter lighting, and dedicated parking. Cantonments and Airport Residential are calm and highly managed; Labone is walkable with cafés and gyms; Roman Ridge is spacious and central; East Legon offers modern homes and lively amenities. Choose a home that matches your commute, budget and social life.

We maintain a wide portfolio across all these areas with new builds, serviced apartments, gated townhouses, and family homes so you can compare like-for-like quickly. And we don’t stop at viewings: we help you navigate everything from due-diligence documents and compliant lease terms to contracts, payments, and closing-day handover for a smooth, transparent, and on your timeline.

 

4) How will you manage health, vaccinations, and insurance?

Check CDC travel guidance for Ghana well before departure (yellow fever, malaria prevention, and updated measles recommendations for all international travelers). Pair that with a health cover strategy from a private insurance for international-standard facilities. 

 

5) What schools align with your children's curriculum preference and commute?

Accra offers top international schools like Lincoln Community School, Safari School, Al-Rayan International School, Ghana International School, Explorers Schools, Association International School and Petit Scholars School. These schools offer IB, British, American, and German curricula. Shortlist by curriculum, accreditation (e.g., CIS, IB World). We help you select the best schools and provide support to facilitate the process. Many families reverse the process, pick the school first, then rent nearby. Lincoln Community School (LCS) (IB, Airport Residential) is Ghana’s marquee international school. Al-Rayan International School (ARIS) offers the full IB continuum. For early years/primary across multiple city campuses, Safari International School, Explorers Schools (and Little Explorers Montessori), and Association International School (AIS) focuses on providing quality education for children moving to Ghana and are strong options. Book tours early as December calendars fill up, and January terms start quickly.

 

 

6) How will you bank and move money in Accra Ghana?

Open a local account for rent/utilities and mobile money for daily spend. Ask your home bank about wire fees and set realistic transfer timelines landlords typically expect net amounts after bank charges for support. (We advise clients to confirm charges and “who pays fees” in advance to avoid reconciliation headaches.)

 

7) How to integrate culturally in Ghana?

Start with diaspora/expat groups and local professional networks. Learn some Twi phrases, understand greetings and business etiquette, and plug into Ghana’s cultural calendar especially the “Beyond the Return” ecosystem and “December in GH” if you’re arriving year-end. Beyond The Return is an initiative that enriches the experience of those moving to Ghana.

 

8) How to get Healthcare that Works When You Need It

For private, international-standard care in Accra, The Bank Hospital (Airport area) is modern and reliable. Franklyn/Franklyn Medical Centre operates 24/7 in the Cantonments/Airport corridor. See their IG and listings for locations. For emergency response, primary care clinics, and evacuations, WARA – West African Rescue Association (International SOS affiliate) is the go-to; keep their hotline saved while you’re in town.

 

 

9) Where to shop for Groceries in prime areas in Accra?

Landing with family or settling into a serviced apartment? Stock the fridge first. Melcom has multiple Accra outlets (Accra Central, Spintex, East Legon and more) with one-stop aisles from appliances to snacks. For imported goods and a tidy shopping run near your hotel or office, MaxMart has popular branches on 37/Liberty Road and at A&C East Legon (good bakery counters, deli, and chilled sections). And for late-night top-ups and a strong import section in prime neighborhoods, Fairway runs compact markets in Labone, East Legon, and Spintex which are handy when you’re back from a concert and realize you forgot breakfast.

 

10) Which Places are good for Dining in Accra?

Accra has many fine restaurants with good food and excellent customer service. If you’re in the Airport/Cantonments/East Legon loop, Polo Club Restaurant & Lounge is a polished pre-party dinner near the polo grounds; think Italian staples and sashimi, with a calm terrace that feels miles from the city rush. For contemporary Afro-Asian and one of the city’s most photogenic dining rooms, KOZO is a great spot to experience contemporary Ghanaian dining and delivers shareable plates and DJ-driven energy. For Ghanaian flavors in a setting diaspora visitors love, make your move to experience the local cuisine. Buka In Osu is a classic; try banku and tilapia, grilled meats, and palm wine to experience the rich life in Ghana. Tribeca (Airport area) handles everything from poke bowls to big burgers and good for groups. Shogun brings solid sushi and pan-Asian mains in Cantonments; Indulge layers cocktails with rooftop views. Brunch and pastry? La Boul’ Accra. Italian night? La Piazza in Osu. Seafood fine dining? NsuomNam in Cantonments. For garden dining and live music rotations: White Restaurant & Garden. Middle-Eastern feasts late into the night? Babel and Bosphorus (Labone) keep the mezze and grills flowing.

 

11) Where to get Coffee, Bakeries & Daytime Reset?

Between airport runs and beach plans, Accra’s cafés carry the day. Thea Coffee (search IG: Thea Coffee Shop) turns out solid espresso and light bites; La Boul’ Accra handles croissants and baguettes; and hotel bakeries (Kempinski, Mӧvenpick) are reliable for quick pastries when you’re en route to a gallery or airport.

 

 

12) Are there gyms and fitness centres for Wellness & Recovery?

For vinyasa and breathwork, join classes that enhance your experience of wellness in Ghana. Bliss Yoga Accra runs classes at East Legon; P4 Pilates (Airport/Cantonments area) does intimate reformer sessions that reset travel-stiff backs; and Pippa’s Health Centre in Ringway has a proper gym, classes, and decades of local pedigree. If you’re salon-hopping before a big night, Lynette’s (East Legon) nails and polish lasts through the party circuit. Specialist haircuts and color (European/Asian hair) by appointment? Akeel Verma at Tang Palace is a diaspora favorite.

 

13) Places to get quality Furniture & Home Setup items?

Moving into a new home during the holidays? For living room sets, rugs, and décor that are in stock and deliver fast, Orca Deco is Ghana’s big box. If you prefer contemporary, European-leaning styles, Alfemo Ghana and Doğtaş Ghana cover tasteful sofas, dining tables, and bedroom sets which are great for a quick, cohesive look pre-housewarming.

 

 

14) Where can my children play and have fun in Accra?

Accra loves families and provides ample support for their needs. Bliss Family Entertainment and Bunny Bunnies Play Centre are perfect for toddlers to primary schoolers with soft play and birthday-friendly zones. Splash & Play adds water fun to the mix, while the city’s newest Shornaa Island (near Trade Fair) is a full amusement park with bumper cars, aqua fun, and midway games for an easy win if you’ve got cousins and classmates meeting up.

 

15) Where can I enjoy Sports, Courts & Lifestyle

The city’s courts fill up with old friends and new WhatsApp groups. Padel is having a moment book S2 Padel (search on IG) or pop by Padel Court Accra; slots go fast during the festive season. The Accra Polo Court hosts year-end fixtures, and the Polo Club Restaurant terrace is a relaxed way to catch the scene over lunch. For yoga and Pilates, you already know where to go (see Wellness), and if you’re golf-curious, December range sessions are a thing.

 

 

16) Where can I experience Culture, Arts & Heritage in Accra Ghana?

Give your nights balance with daytime culture. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park (newly refurbished) is a must; pair it with a walk at Independence/Black Star Square. Old Accra’s coastline opens at Jamestown Lighthouse which is advisable to go with a guide. Weekend trips to the Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle are profound and essential. On the arts side, Gallery 1957 at Kempinski shows leading Ghanaian and African contemporary artists; add Nubuke Foundation and the Accra Arts Centre/Centre for National Culture for crafts.

 

Newcomer FAQs

Q1. Is Ghana still actively welcoming the diaspora?

Yes. After 2019’s “Year of Return,” Ghana launched a 10-year program "Beyond the Return" to deepen diaspora pathways (including residence/work permits and citizenship programs). Beyond The Return

Q2. Can I get citizenship as a member of the diaspora?

Citizenship is possible but not automatic; pathways exist and cohorts have been naturalized in recent years. Expect due diligence and timelines and engage qualified counsel. AP News

Q4. What’s a realistic school search timeline?

Start 3–6 months out. Shortlist by curriculum, accreditation, fees, and admissions windows; plan for assessments and waitlists. CIS

Q5. Can I convert my driver’s licence?

Yes, processes exist via DVLA; requirements can change, so verify documents and timelines on the official portal. dvla.gov.gh

Q6. How stable is Ghana for long-term living?

Ghana is widely seen as politically stable, with an active electoral cycle and strong civil society. Keep an eye on reputable news and embassy advisories during election periods (like anywhere). Travel.gov

Q7. What about visas on arrival, can I just show up?

Some travelers can obtain visas on arrival with pre-approval support; policies can be seasonally adjusted. Always confirm on Ghana Immigration/GTA pages before travel. Ghana Immigration Services

Q8. What’s the business case for Accra?

Accra hosts the AfCFTA Secretariat, positioning the city as a regional trade and headquarters hub which makes it attractive for logistics, professional services, and consumer brands. African Union

Q9. Is December a good time to arrive and start your new life in Ghana?

Yes, if you want culture and community from day one. Accommodation and flights book up quickly; plan early. Beyond The Return

 

Partner with Akka Kappa for your relocation journey to Ghana

From pre-arrival consults and compliant lease reviews to school search, settling-in, staff vetting, and after-care, we’ve helped thousands of assignees and families relocate with confidence. Let’s turn “moving” into “arriving.” We will connect you to all the resources you and the family will need to create a new paradise here in Ghana.

Book a free pre-arrival consultation. We’ll map your budget, shortlist neighborhoods, and build a 30/60/90-day landing plan.

 

Key References & Useful Links

  1. Ghana Immigration Service – visas, visas-on-arrival & permits (official). Ghana Immigration Services+2Ghana Immigration Services+2

  2. Ghana Tourism Authority / “Beyond the Return”:diaspora pillars & December in GH. Beyond The Return+3Visit Ghana+3Beyond The Return+3

  3. CDC Travelers’ Health & Yellow Book:vaccines, malaria, measles update. CDC+2CDC+2

  4. National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) overview (official). NHIS+1

  5. DVLA Ghana:  licensing, foreign licence conversion; 2026 biometric licence news. dvla.gov.gh+2dvla.gov.gh+2

  6. Cost-of-living trackers for Accra/Ghana. Numbeo+2Numbeo+2

  7. AfCFTA Secretariat based in Accra (AU & AfDB sources). African Union+1

  8. Diaspora naturalizations and citizenship ceremonies (news). AP News

  9. U.S. State Dept. country information (safety/consular). Travel.gov

  10. International schools & accreditation directories (CIS/British Council). CIS+1

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