Ghanaians planning to work in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) must now meet a new employment visa requirement, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Ministry announced that it has received official communication from the Embassy of the UAE in Accra confirming that, under UAE Cabinet Decision No. 1/36 of 2026 and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship Decision No. 1/36 of 2026, all Ghanaian nationals applying for UAE work visas must obtain a Good Conduct Certificate, also known as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
Two-Phase Implementation of the New UAE Employment Visa Requirement
The new regulation has been introduced in two stages:
- Phase One: Effective March 30, 2026, all categories of workers applying for employment visas from Ghana are required to submit a Police Clearance Certificate.
- Phase Two: Effective July 20, 2026, the requirement also applies to all worker categories arriving in the UAE.
Authentication of Police Clearance Certificate Required
The Ministry emphasized that the Good Conduct Certificate is an additional mandatory document for UAE employment visa applications. Before it can be accepted by UAE immigration authorities, the certificate must be authenticated by both:
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana, and
- The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Accra.
Grace Period for Ghanaians Already in the UAE
Ghanaian nationals currently residing in the UAE on visit visas who wish to change their status to work visas have been granted a 45-day grace period from the effective date of the policy to regularize their immigration status.
Ministry Advises Full Compliance
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging all Ghanaians seeking employment opportunities in the UAE to comply with the new work visa regulations to avoid delays or possible rejection of their applications.
The Ministry also assured the public that it will continue collaborating with the UAE Embassy in Accra to ensure the smooth implementation of the new measures.
Applicants requiring additional information are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Police Service, or the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Accra for guidance on the Police Clearance Certificate and UAE work visa application process.
Read Statement from Sector Ministry Below:
Source: newsthemegh.com