Starting a business in Accra? Check AMA's permit list first

AMA lists five requirements for a Business Operating Permit and a 90-day temporary permit while it carries out checks. The guidance applies within AMA's jurisdiction.

By Ernest · 3 November 2026

AMA business permit guide: five requirements, a 90-day temporary permit and the need to check your local assembly. — Graphic: Kaaklo. A summary of AMA's published guidance, checked on 3 November 2026. This is not an announcement of a new rule.

Planning a shop, office or other business within the Accra Metropolitan Assembly's jurisdiction? AMA says every business in its area is expected to obtain a Business Operating Permit. Its published checklist is a useful starting point before approaching the Assembly.

What does AMA ask for?

The Assembly lists five requirements:

A Registrar General Business Certificate or Certificate of Incorporation.
The name of the business.
The name of the business owner.
The business's GPS location or address.
Contact details.

Checklist: business certificate, business and owner names, location and contact details. — Graphic: Kaaklo. The five AMA requirements, grouped for readability.

What is the 90-day permit?

AMA says an applicant receives a temporary permit lasting 90 days after producing the listed requirements. During that period, the Assembly carries out due diligence, background checks and processing for a permanent permit.

The temporary permit should not be confused with a permanent approval. Confirm the next steps with AMA rather than assuming there is nothing more to do once the temporary document is issued.

The temporary permit lasts 90 days while AMA carries out due diligence and processing. — Graphic: Kaaklo. The duration is from AMA's permit page; it is not a guarantee of a permanent permit by a particular date.

Before you apply

Confirm that your business location falls within AMA's area. This checklist is not a single application process for every municipality in Greater Accra or across Ghana.

The source page does not state a permit fee. Ask AMA to confirm the current fee, approved payment method, where to submit the documents and whether your business needs any additional permissions. Do not treat business registration alone as completion of AMA's permit process.

Source

Accra Metropolitan Assembly: Business Operating Permit, checked 3 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.