The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has detailed key features of Ghana’s upcoming Free Visa policy for African nationals, emphasizing that the initiative will maintain strict security protocols despite the removal of visa fees.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Minister said the policy, announced by President John Dramani Mahama, will take effect from May 25, 2026, coinciding with Africa Day.
Under the new arrangement, African travelers will not be required to pay visa fees. However, Ablakwa clarified that all applicants will still undergo a mandatory visa application and screening process.
He noted that the policy forms part of a broader e-Visa initiative expected to be launched next month. The digital platform will serve as the sole channel for visa applications by all travelers, including Africans.
According to the Minister, the e-Visa system will be integrated with Ghana’s API-PNR infrastructure and international crime databases to enable thorough background checks. This, he said, will allow consular officials to effectively vet applicants and prevent individuals with criminal or questionable records from entering the country.
Ablakwa stressed that the waiver of visa fees should not be misconstrued as automatic entry into Ghana, underscoring that all applicants will be subject to strict verification procedures.
He further indicated that significant investments have been made by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Transport to establish a robust technological framework to support the policy.
The Minister also referenced a similar announcement made in 2024 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, noting that its implementation was delayed due to the absence of adequate systems and safeguards at the time.
With the necessary infrastructure now in place, Ablakwa said Ghana is prepared to roll out both the e-Visa platform and the Free Visa policy as part of efforts to enhance regional integration while safeguarding national security.
