Ghana Citizenship Drive Resumed

Key Updates, What’s Changed, and What Applicants Should Know

The Government of Ghana has officially resumed the citizenship process for members of the Historic African Diaspora, following a temporary pause and extensive consultations with diaspora stakeholders.

This resumption reflects important adjustments to the process, informed by feedback from diaspora communities, advocacy organizations, and public dialogue. Below is a detailed overview of the updated guidelines, what has changed, and what applicants should expect moving forward.

Why the Process Was Paused

Upon the initial launch of the Diaspora Citizenship Drive, concerns were raised by members of the historical African diaspora regarding several aspects of the initial rollout, including:

• High upfront application costs
• DNA testing requirements to prove Ghanaian ancestry
• Short notice periods to complete applications
• Multiple background check requirements across jurisdictions

Diaspora organizations convened discussions and town halls to collectively raise these concerns. In response, the Government of Ghana paused the process to review and reassess the framework.

What Has Changed

The resumed process includes several significant improvements:

• DNA testing is no longer required
• The initial application fee has been removed
• The process now places emphasis on documentation, ties to Ghana, and eligibility review
• A service fee is only required upon acceptance, not at the point of application

These changes represent a more accessible and practical pathway for members of the Historic African Diaspora seeking Ghanaian citizenship.

Updated Application Process

1. Submit the below documents directly to the WEB DuBois Centre, Cantonments, Accra – Ghana, for vetting:
   • Proof of legal residence in Ghana (2 year residence permit)
   • Birth certificate
   • Evidence of strong ties to Ghana
   • Police clearance from both the home country and Ghana
   • Bio-data page of a valid passport
   • Passport picture
2. If selected to proceed after the vetting process, applicants will then be instructed to complete the formal application and make payment online through the Ministry of the Interior portal.
3. Upon selection: Visit the Ministry of the Interior e-services portal to submit your registration and make payment of the application fee of GHS 25,000. Scroll past the Migration Services section until you see Other Services. Click on Diaspora Registration and proceed to Sign Up for an account and complete the registration process. 
4. Due to the high volume of interest and the limited timeline ahead of the ceremonial swearing-in scheduled for March 5, 2026, not all applicants may be accommodated in the first ceremony. Authorities have confirmed that the process remains open and that eligible applicants not included in the first round will be considered in subsequent phases.

ADRC Support for Applicants

For applicants who need assistance meeting eligibility requirements, African Diaspora Resource Centre can provide assistance with the following:

• Legal Residency in Ghana: Secure your Residence Permit or Work Permit in Ghana and position yourself to meet legal residency requirements ahead of future citizenship ceremonies. Schedule a free needs assessment with a Resource Specialist to explore the most suitable pathway toward lawful residency in Ghana.
• International Police Report: Obtain a background check from your home country to meet application requirements. A streamlined process is available for U.S. citizens, with support also available for other nationalities, subject to jurisdiction and processing timelines.

A Step Forward for Diaspora Reconnection

The resumption of this program—along with the removal of DNA requirements and upfront application fees—marks an important step toward a more inclusive and dignified pathway for members of the African diaspora seeking citizenship and deeper connection to Ghana.

ADRC will continue to monitor developments, advocate for diaspora interests, and share verified updates as the process evolves.