Passport

Your passport is your most important document when traveling abroad. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return to your home country. Do not place your passport in checked luggage when flying. Always keep it with you in your pocket.

DBS

To ensure that we can offer a safe and trusted environment, it is necessary that all interns and volunteers apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

You can get this via www.gov.uk, currently for 21.50 GBP.

Once in possession of your DBS, we kindly ask you to send a copy to your mentor at The Power of Sports. This allows us to ensure that all our team members meet the required standards and contribute to a safe and positive experience for the young people we work with. The DBS is of particular importance to us, given the nature of our work with vulnerable youth in disadvantaged neighbourhoods abroad.

Visa

If your stay is longer than 30 days, you are required to have a visa. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days in Ghana, please contact your mentor. He will assist you with obtaining a visa and advise you on how to get it. Obtaining a visa for Ghana can be time-consuming and frustrating, so start the process at least two months in advance. Keep in mind that countries often change their visa requirements, sometimes every six months. For the most up-to-date visa information, visit the websites of the embassies in London.

How to Obtain a Ghana Visa 

1. Check Visa Type
   For stays longer than 30 days as a tourist or volunteer, you need to apply for a Tourist Visa with extended duration or sometimes a Temporary Residence Visa depending on the length and purpose of your stay.

2. Gather Required Documents
   You’ll typically need:

   • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond your intended stay)

   • Completed visa application form (download from Ghana High Commission website)

   • Recent passport-sized photographs

   • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or host confirmation)

   • Flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Ghana

   • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)

   • Bank statements or proof of sufficient funds for your stay

   • Visa fee (usually higher for longer stays)

   • Letter explaining purpose and duration of your stay (especially if volunteering or doing an internship)

   • Invitation letter from host organization if applicable

3. Submit Your Application

   • Visit the Ghana High Commission in London in person or send your application by mail.

   • Alternatively, start the process online via the Ghana Immigration Service e-visa portal (https://www.ghanavisa.com/), but confirm if extended stay visas are processed online or require embassy submission.

4. Processing Time

   • Expect processing to take up to 4 weeks for extended stay visas — so apply at least 6-8 weeks before your planned travel date.

5. Collect Your Visa

   • Pick up your visa at the embassy or receive the e-visa documentation via email if processed online.

6. Entry Requirements

   • At arrival in Ghana, you may be asked about your length of stay and purpose, so have your documents ready.

   • Ensure you keep a copy of your visa and related paperwork during your stay.

Important Notes:

• If your stay extends beyond the visa validity, you will need to apply for an extension within Ghana at the Ghana Immigration Service.

• Always check the latest rules on the Ghana High Commission UK website or contact them directly before applying.

• Keep your Yellow Fever vaccination card handy; it’s a strict requirement for entry.

• Visa fees are higher for longer stays; verify the current fees with the embassy.

Ghana High Commission UK Contact Info:

• Website: https://ghanaembassyuk.org.uk

• Address: 13 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PN

• Phone: +44 (0)20 7235 1444

Insurance

The Power of Sports strongly advises you to travel well insured. Since these are long-term trips, the chance of something happening abroad is higher. Consider the following:

Medical emergencies: Unexpected illnesses or injuries can occur anywhere in the world. Travel insurance with medical coverage ensures that you can cover medical expenses without major financial worries.

Trip cancellation or interruption: Sometimes trips must be canceled or interrupted at the last minute due to unexpected circumstances such as illness, family issues, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events. Travel insurance can cover the costs of canceled flights, hotel bookings, and other non-refundable expenses.

Loss or theft of luggage: Losing luggage or becoming a victim of theft can ruin your travel experience. With travel insurance, you can get compensation for lost or stolen belongings, helping reduce your financial loss.

Delayed flights: If your flight is delayed and you miss connecting flights or planned activities as a result, travel insurance can help cover extra costs and inconvenience.

Liability: In some cases, you may be held liable for damage to property or injury to others during your trip. Travel insurance can provide coverage for such unforeseen liabilities.

Travel accidents: Although nobody hopes to be involved in an accident while traveling, travel insurance offers coverage in case of permanent disability or death resulting from an accident during the trip.

Legal assistance: If you become involved in a legal situation during your trip, such as a dispute over contracts or other matters, travel insurance can help you obtain legal advice and assistance.

Loss of travel documents: If you lose your passport, visa, or other important travel documents, travel insurance can help cover the costs of replacement and assist in obtaining new documents.

Although it involves extra costs, travel insurance can ultimately save you a lot of money, stress, and inconvenience in case of unexpected events during your trip.

Vaccinations

There are some general vaccinations often recommended for travel to Ghana. It is always best to consult a medical professional, such as a general practitioner or the public health service, for tailored advice based on your personal medical history and travel plans. Here are some commonly recommended vaccinations for Ghana:

Recommended Vaccinations:

• Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination is usually required for entry into Ghana. Additionally, yellow fever is endemic in certain parts of Ghana, so it is important to be vaccinated even if not mandatory.

Possible Vaccinations:

• Routine vaccinations: Make sure your basic vaccinations are up to date, such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough.

• Hepatitis A: This vaccination is recommended for almost all travelers to Ghana, as hepatitis A can be transmitted through contaminated food or water.

• Typhoid: This vaccination is recommended if you plan to travel to areas where exposure to contaminated food or water is likely.

• Meningococcal meningitis: Depending on your travel plans and time of year, a meningococcal meningitis vaccination may be recommended, especially if you intend to attend large gatherings or festivals.

There may also be specific vaccinations or preventive measures needed depending on factors such as the length of your stay, specific regions you visit, and your individual health history. It is advisable to consult a medical professional at least four to six weeks before your trip to receive tailored advice and ensure you get the necessary vaccinations.

Please note that the vaccinations listed are general recommendations and specific requirements may vary. Always consult a medical professional for personalized advice regarding your situation and travel plans.

Health and Hygiene

We are not authorized to provide medical advice regarding your health and vaccinations, so it is absolutely essential that you seek professional medical advice from your GP before departure.

Prevention is always better than cure. There are some things you should do before leaving to ensure you remain fit and healthy abroad. Please read the following recommendations carefully.

HIV and AIDS

All participants should be aware of the HIV virus and how it is transmitted. HIV and AIDS exist worldwide. Therefore, make sure to follow these basic rules wherever you are:

• Avoid casual sex and contact with infected bodily fluids

• Never allow yourself to be injected with an unsterilized needle or syringe

• Avoid any other blood contact where possible

Check-ups before departure

• Visit your GP or public health service to ask which vaccinations you need.

• It is advisable to see your doctor at least 2-3 months before departure for a general check-up.

• Check with your doctor (or Ministry of Health) whether it is legal to take your prescribed medication in the country. If you use medication in the country, it is advisable to have a supporting letter from your doctor stating what the medication is for and why you need to bring it.

• Make a dental appointment. Toothache or cavities can ruin your trip, and dental care abroad is often very expensive. The quality of treatment can also be very poor.

Food poisoning

Many of our participants experience stomach problems within 48 hours due to being in a new environment and exposure to new bacteria. By resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and replacing salts, you will recover quickly from such disruptions. Some people travel with one-day multivitamins to strengthen their immune system.

Sunburn

Be careful with heat and intense sunshine. Dehydration, sunburn, and heatstroke are very common among our participants. However, you can easily avoid these problems by taking the following preventive measures:

• Avoid direct sunlight when the sun is strongest (e.g., in the afternoon)

• Wear sunglasses

• Wear a cap or hat

• Apply high-factor sunscreen

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day and always carry a full bottle of water with you

First Aid

It is advisable to bring a personal first aid kit. This is essential for any minor accident or injury you may sustain abroad. Also, make sure to keep it in a convenient place during your stay and carry it daily during your volunteer work.

Safety & Security

Theft occurs more frequently abroad than it does at home. However, it can often be prevented by staying alert and taking some precautionary measures. Below are several common issues that could get you into trouble:

Tourists are always a target for pickpockets. Make sure to research Ghana before your trip so you’re aware of potential risks and situations. Some important tips:

• Never travel or go out alone, especially at night.

• Find out which areas are considered unsafe and avoid them.

• Store all important documents and valuables in a secure place, such as a hidden inner pocket or a money belt.

• Only carry the cash you expect to need.

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches.

• Be cautious of people who seem overly friendly too quickly.

• Keep cameras out of sight.

• Keep your wallet in your front pants pocket.

• Before swimming, ask how safe the area is and avoid swimming all at once with your group.

Precautionary Measures

• A money belt is useful for your valuables. Wear it under your clothes, out of sight, and only open it in known and secure locations.

• When using an ATM, make sure it is in a well-lit area and don’t count your cash until you are somewhere safe. Also, avoid withdrawing money at night or alone.

Manners & Clothing

Your behavior and clothing can draw a lot of attention. In less developed areas, people may respond differently to certain types of appearance or conduct. What might seem normal to you can be seen as disrespectful or offensive. Overconfidence or flaunting material possessions is often viewed as arrogance or showing off. Always try to adapt and empathize with the local culture.

Some guidelines:

• Try to remain modest and keep a low profile in your behavior.

• You are there to experience, learn, and immerse yourself in the culture, not to compare, criticize, or make judgmental remarks.

• Try to adopt some local customs, many cultures have their own styles of greeting. Learn and use them.

• Wear appropriate clothing that is not offensive or political in nature.

Drugs

Never buy, use, or carry drugs while you are abroad. If you do, your volunteer work or internship will be immediately terminated, and the local police will not hesitate to arrest you and detain you, often without trial. Conditions in foreign prisons are usually very poor, and you may not have access to the same legal rights as you would at home. Penalties for even small amounts of marijuana can be extremely severe.

Alcohol

Almost all serious incidents are, in some way, related to overconsumption of alcohol. Participants who drink excessively are often robbed in bars, or worse. Any amount of alcohol impairs your reflexes and gives a false sense of invincibility, increasing your risk of ending up in a dangerous situation. It is highly recommended not to drink alcohol during the week and to stay in control on weekends.

Code of Conduct

We want you to have a meaningful and enjoyable life experience abroad, but it’s important to remember that you are an ambassador for our foundation. Therefore, it’s essential that you conduct yourself appropriately throughout your entire stay.

You will be asked to sign this contract upon arrival in Ghana.

General Code of Conduct

a) You will at all times respect local attitudes, cultures, and beliefs. Specifically, you will not make comments of a derogatory, sexist, or racist nature to anyone during your stay. You will dress, speak, and behave appropriately at all times.
b) You will not act in any way that is considered antisocial by the Lead Coordinator or the local community. This especially applies when under the influence of alcohol.
c) You will arrive at your placement on time each day. If you are delayed or unable to attend, you will notify the Lead Coordinator or the designated in-country staff member as far in advance as reasonably possible.
d) You will not take time off from your placement for personal travel or visits without the express permission of the Lead Coordinator.
e) You will not spend the night away from your accommodation unless you have received prior permission from the Lead Coordinator.
f) You will not allow any person to enter or stay overnight at your accommodation unless explicitly permitted by the Lead Coordinator.
g) You will leave the accommodation on the stated Placement End Date unless otherwise permitted by the Lead Coordinator. This includes local homestays arranged through us.
h) You will keep your personal and communal living areas clean and tidy. You will treat the accommodation with respect. Failure to do so may result in being asked to leave your placement.
i) You agree to drink alcohol only in moderation during your time abroad. The Lead Coordinator will explain local alcohol rules upon arrival.
j) You will not buy, possess, or use illegal drugs during your stay. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy, and any volunteer found in possession or under suspicion will be asked to leave immediately.
k) You acknowledge that we strongly advise against engaging in sexual relationships while abroad. If you choose to do so, it is at your own risk. You understand the health risks (e.g., HIV/AIDS, STDs), cultural sensitivities, and that health facilities may not meet the standards you’re used to.
l) You will follow the advice and instructions of the Lead Coordinator at all times. Failure to do so may result in termination of your placement and accommodation.
m) You are responsible for your own health and wellbeing. Seek medical attention immediately when necessary, and consult your travel health insurance provider if required.
n) You will ensure your return flight is scheduled before your visa expires. It is your responsibility to obtain the correct visa if required.

Additional Rules for the Volunteer Coaching Programme

o) Unless explicitly permitted by the Lead Coordinator, you will not consume excessive alcohol from Sunday through Friday evening. Moderate consumption may be allowed on Friday evenings and Saturdays with permission. Overconsumption or breaking these rules may result in immediate removal from the placement.
p) You agree to attend the minimum required hours of your placement, typically at least 4 hours per weekday (Monday–Friday), unless stated otherwise. You understand that you’ve made a commitment and will perform to the best of your ability.

Termination

If your trip is terminated due to non-compliance with the code of conduct, you will be required to leave immediately.

Discrimination

We have zero tolerance for any form of discrimination. If you witness or experience discrimination, report it to your coordinator immediately.

Narcotics

There is a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding drugs. Anyone caught in possession of illegal substances—or suspected of using them—will be immediately removed from the accommodation and placement.