Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an advisory regarding updated employment visa regulations for its citizens seeking work in the United Arab Emirates. Following a directive from the UAE Cabinet, all Ghanaian applicants must now secure a Good Conduct Certificate, commonly known as a Police Clearance Certificate, to process their work permits. This policy is being enforced in two distinct stages, both of which are now fully operational.

The first phase, which began on March 30, 2026, mandated that all individuals applying for work visas from within Ghana obtain this clearance. The second phase, implemented on July 20, 2026, expanded the scope to include all worker categories upon their arrival in the UAE. Furthermore, Ghanaian nationals currently residing in the Emirates on visit visas who wish to transition to employment status are granted a 45-day window to fulfill these requirements. The ministry has encouraged all affected citizens to reach out to the relevant authorities should they have questions or need further clarification regarding the application process.