Cabinet has approved a new electronic visa policy, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced, less than a month before the system is expected to take effect.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Mr Ablakwa said, “Cabinet has approved our new e visa policy. The e visa regime covers those travelling to Ghana for business and tourism.”
President John Dramani Mahama first announced the policy on April 2, 2026, during a state visit by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
He said African travellers would be able to apply for e visas online at no cost from May 25, 2026, in line with Africa Day.
Mr Ablakwa said the approval forms part of the government’s economic and diplomatic direction.
“When others make you feel unwelcome, Ghana says this is your home to invest and to enjoy the beauty of nature,” he wrote. He added that the government was building on Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful and welcoming destination, while using technology to make travel faster and more convenient, backed by strict security checks.
Referring to President Mahama’s statement at his inauguration that Ghana is open for business again, Mr Ablakwa said the policy reflects that position. “Resetting Ghana must reflect in every facet,” he wrote.
The e visa platform will be linked to Ghana’s Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems, along with international crime databases, to allow background checks before travellers arrive.
Mr Ablakwa has explained that removing visa fees for African travellers does not remove the application and screening process.
“Africans will still have to go through a visa application process like everyone else, theirs would simply be gratis,” he said.
Under the current arrangement, an African Union national who obtains a visa on arrival pays 150 dollars for a stay of up to 30 days. From May 25, 2026, that fee will no longer apply to African passport holders, although they will still need to complete the application process.
With the policy, Ghana will join Benin, The Gambia, Rwanda and Seychelles in offering visa free or fee free access to African nationals.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh