Find Out How to Get a Job and Work in Accra

Employment in Accra

Local Economy

As Ghana’s capital city, Accra is the country’s hub for finance, insurance, marketing, business development, and transportation. The city features several commercial, domestic, and international banks, as well as a number of mortgage and insurance providers. The tertiary economic sector tends to provide most of the city’s income. This includes hotels, restaurants, real estate, education, health and shopping malls.

While there is no specific industry that attracts expats to Ghana, most of those who do move there do so because they are being sent by their existing employer. In addition, property development, architecture, and healthcare appear to be popular career choices, although the country does encourage businesses to hire local workers before looking to the international employment market.

Economic development in the primary sector is not as strong as that found in the tertiary, but fishing continues to play a large role in the city’s agriculture.

Job Hunting in Accra

Most expatriates arrange their employment before arriving in Accra. However, for those who move to the city with their partner or other members of their family, it is still possible to find a job. Some expat communities and local newspapers advertise jobs, although it is probably easier to turn to a Ghanaian recruitment agency for employment.

As English is the predominant language in Accra, there are few language barriers to overcome. However, it is worth noting that a few employers in the city’s suburbs may require some knowledge of local dialects. Other work opportunities include working for local consulates.

Income Taxation in Accra

Whether expats secure a job before arriving in Ghana or afterwards, they need to get to grips with Ghanaian taxation rules. Like many countries, Ghana taxes its residents depending on how much they earn. At the lower end of the scale, those earning 1,584 GHS or less are not taxed. At the upper end of the scale, those earning over 31,680 GHS are taxed 25%.

Compared to many Western countries, such rates are quite attractive. Income tax rates usually operate on a Pay As You Earn (PAYE) basis. Therefore, those who work in Accra may be entitled to claim back any excess payments they have made at the end of the tax year.

Self-employed individuals are responsible for paying their own tax, and they pay in four equal installments throughout the year. Corporate tax rates stand at 25% for businesses in Accra. This tax is usually paid when companies calculate their profits at the end of each financial year.