
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL ADVISORY - Ghana
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GHANA - CAUTION
 February 5, 1992

The Department of State advises U.S. citizens traveling in Ghana to
exercise caution as Ghanaian laws and legal practices differ
considerably from those in the United States.  When arrested, U.S.
citizens have encountered significant problems, including a lack of
notification to the American Embassy, denial of access by a consular
officer, harsh and unhealthful jail conditions, and a lengthy legal
process during which the detainee may be unable to post bond.  In
addition, the government of Ghana claims the right to incarcerate
individuals, including American citizens, for indefinite periods
without filing formal charges.  If detained, U.S. citizens should
make every effort to contact the U.S. Embassy by any means available.

U.S. citizens should conduct foreign currency transactions only
through registered banks and foreign exchange bureaus.  Currency
transactions with private citizens are illegal.  Only designated
official agencies are authorized to handle transactions in gold,
diamonds, and other natural resources.  Transactions in these
commodities with private citizens are illegal.

The wearing of any military apparel such as camouflage jackets or
pants or any clothing or items which may appear military in nature
is strictly prohibited.

Visitors arriving in Ghana with electronic equipment, particularly
video cameras and laptop computers, may be required to pay a
refundable deposit of 17.5 per cent of the value of the item prior
to entry into the country.  To receive a refund of the deposit,
visitors must apply to the Customs and Excise Office in central
Accra 48 hours before departure.  American citizens should exercise
discretion in selecting photo subjects.  The photography of certain
areas and facilities is prohibited, and many Ghanaians may take
offense at being photographed without their consent.

All foreign visitors who plan to remain in Ghana for more than 7
days must register with the Ghana Immigration Service within 48
hours of arrival.  Registration is not required for stays of 7 days
or less, but is recommended to facilitate re-entry.  Americans
traveling to Ghana should register with the American Embassy
immediately upon arrival.  The U.S. Embassy is located on Ring Road
East, P.O. Box 194, Accra.  The telephone number is 77-53-47.

 No. 92-017

This replaces the previous travel advisory, dated January 29, 1991,
and advises U.S. citizens of a refundable deposit on certain
electronic equipment required upon arrival in Ghana, and advises of
the need to register with the Ghana Immigration Service for stays of
more than 7 days.

