Contracts: writing is required, and there is a deadline

By Equipo Saplic Published on 11/08/2026 Updated on 11/08/2026

Failing to issue one for longer engagements is among the most common breaches of Act 651.

For guidance only

The amounts and deadlines in this guide can change by law. Always check the update date and the official sources cited below. For a specific case, consult the labour authority or a professional.

In this guide
  1. The types
  2. The writing requirement
  3. Who Act 651 covers
  4. What to check before signing
  5. Anti-discrimination protections
  6. Supporting legislation
  7. Keep your records

Ghanaian law recognises several contract types, and Act 651 is specific about putting them in writing.

The types

  • Permanent (indefinite)
  • Fixed-term — up to six years
  • Casual
  • Part-time

The writing requirement

Contracts must be in writing, and they must include essential terms: job duties, compensation and working hours.

Failing to issue a written contract for longer engagements is one of the most common compliance failures in Ghana, and it breaches Act 651.

If you have been working for months without anything in writing, ask for it. It is your entitlement, not a favour.

Who Act 651 covers

It applies to all workers in Ghana except members of the Armed Forces, the Police Service, the Prison Service, and the Security and Intelligence Agencies.

That is a much broader coverage than in some neighbouring jurisdictions, and it means most employees can rely on the Act directly.

What to check before signing

  1. The contract type and duration — it determines your notice period
  2. The basic salary, separately from allowances, since SSNIT Tier 1 is calculated on basic
  3. Working hours and the agreed overtime rate, which the employer must set in advance
  4. Leave entitlement
  5. Whether a collective agreement applies

Anti-discrimination protections

Ghana's Constitution and Act 651 prohibit discrimination based on gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, religion, political opinion, social status or disability. Equal pay for equal work is mandated regardless of gender.

Supporting legislation

Act 651 is supplemented by the Labour Regulations, 2007 (LI 1833), the SSNIT legislation and the Workmen's Compensation Act.

Keep your records

Contract, payslips, SSNIT statements and any correspondence about terms. In a dispute before the NLC, documentation decides.

Frequently asked questions

Does my contract have to be in writing?
Yes. Act 651 requires written contracts including job duties, compensation and working hours. Failing to issue one for longer engagements is a common breach.
What contract types exist in Ghana?
Permanent or indefinite, fixed-term of up to six years, casual and part-time.
Who does Act 651 cover?
All workers in Ghana except members of the Armed Forces, Police Service, Prison Service, and Security and Intelligence Agencies.
What should I check before signing?
The contract type and duration, the basic salary separately from allowances, working hours and the agreed overtime rate, leave entitlement, and whether a collective agreement applies.
Is discrimination prohibited?
Yes. The Constitution and Act 651 prohibit discrimination on gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, religion, political opinion, social status or disability, and mandate equal pay for equal work.

Sources

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