Nationality Act and Alien Act
Join us in protecting Ghana’s values and resources through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Ghana’s Nationality & Aliens Acts: Understanding Legal Belonging and Sovereignty
The sovereignty of Ghana begins with the legal recognition of who belongs to the nation and who resides within it as a non-citizen. The Ghana Nationality Act, 2000 (Act 591) and the Aliens Act, 1963 (Act 160) form the legal foundation for defining and protecting Ghanaian identity. These laws govern the acquisition, retention, and loss of Ghanaian citizenship, while clearly distinguishing the rights and obligations of foreign nationals (aliens) residing in the country. Together, they ensure that Ghana's citizenship is preserved for those with genuine ties to the nation, and that foreign influence is regulated in ways that safeguard national interest, resource control, and cultural integrity.
Who Is a Ghanaian Citizen? – Nationality by Birth and Descent
Ghanaian citizenship is primarily acquired by birth or descent. A person is a Ghanaian by birth if they are born in Ghana or abroad to at least one parent or grandparent who is or was a Ghanaian citizen. This provision ensures that Ghanaian identity is preserved across generations, even among diaspora communities. Children born outside Ghana must be registered appropriately to confirm their legal status.
Citizenship by Registration or Naturalisation
Foreign nationals may become Ghanaians through registration (common for spouses or adopted children) or naturalisation after fulfilling residency, integration, and good character requirements. The process is rigorous and ensures that only those committed to Ghana’s development and values are admitted as citizens.
Ghana permits dual nationality, allowing citizens to hold another nationality alongside Ghanaian citizenship. However, dual citizens are restricted from holding certain sensitive public offices (e.g., Chief Justice, security roles, or parliamentary positions), unless they renounce their foreign citizenship. This provision is designed to protect national loyalty and integrity.
Dual Citizenship and Its Limitations
Who Is an Alien? – Understanding the Aliens Act
The Aliens Act, 1963 (Act 160) defines an alien as any person who is not a Ghanaian citizen. Aliens are allowed to live, work, and invest in Ghana, but must comply with registration requirements, immigration laws, and limitations on economic activity. The law ensures that Ghana's sovereignty is upheld while managing foreign presence responsibly.
Alien Land Ownership and Business Restrictions
Under Ghanaian law, aliens cannot own freehold land. They are only permitted to lease land for a maximum of 50 years, with renewal subject to national interest. Additionally, specific economic sectors—such as small-scale mining, petty trading, and taxi services—are reserved exclusively for Ghanaians to protect local livelihoods and prevent economic exploitation.
Both citizens and non-citizens are subject to regulations that uphold Ghana’s legal and security framework. Aliens must register with the Ghana Immigration Service and obtain appropriate permits. The state has the right to refuse entry or deport any alien who poses a threat to national security or violates Ghanaian law. Citizenship may also be revoked if acquired through fraud or actions against national interest.
Registration, Compliance, and National Security
Get Involved
Join us to protect Ghana’s values and resources through action.