The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a new requirement for Ghanaian nationals seeking employment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
In a public announcement issued on August 4, 2026, the Ministry said it has received official notification from the Embassy of the UAE in Accra regarding the introduction of the measure.
Under UAE Cabinet Decision No. 1/36 of 2026 and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship Decision No. 1/36 of 2026, all persons applying for employment visas to the UAE will be required to obtain a Good Conduct Certificate, also known as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
The implementation of the new requirement is being rolled out in two phases:
- First Phase: Took effect from March 30, 2026, and applies to all worker categories applying for employment visas from Ghana.
- Second Phase: Took effect from July 20, 2026, and also applies to all worker categories arriving in the UAE.
The Ministry noted that the Good Conduct Certificate is an additional requirement for employment visa applications. It must be duly authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana and the Embassy of the UAE in Accra before it can be accepted by UAE authorities.
Ghanaians currently in the UAE on visit visas who intend to convert their status to work visas have been granted a 45-day grace period from the effective date of the decision to regularise their immigration status.
The Ministry advised all Ghanaian citizens intending to seek employment in the UAE to take note of the new requirement for compliance. It said it will work closely with the Embassy of the UAE to facilitate the smooth implementation of the measures.
Members of the public seeking further clarification have been directed to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Police Service, or the Embassy of the UAE in Accra.
