John Dramani Mahama has announced the discontinuation of Ghana’s visa-on-arrival policy for African passport holders, replacing it with a new electronic visa (e-visa) system designed to enhance security and improve travel efficiency.
Speaking at the official launch of the platform on Monday, May 25, President Mahama said the new digital system would streamline visa processing while maintaining strict border control measures.
“The previous visa-on-arrival arrangement for African passports, which I initiated in my previous term as president, is hereby discontinued and replaced by this more secure and efficient electronic visa regime,” he stated.
Despite the policy shift, the President emphasized that citizens of countries with existing visa waiver agreements with Ghana will continue to enjoy visa-free entry without the need to apply for visas or pay fees. This applies to several African nations as well as Caribbean and other partner countries.
“For African countries with which Ghana has visa waiver agreements, citizens of those countries will continue to travel freely to Ghana without applying for visas. The same applies to Caribbean and other nations with similar agreements,” he said.
President Mahama noted that while the financial barrier to travel has been eased for eligible countries, the new e-visa system will still enforce comprehensive vetting procedures.
“Applicants will continue to undergo all the necessary due diligence. The financial barrier for African travel has been removed, while what remains firmly intact is our commitment to security, order, and effective border management,” he added.
He further revealed that the initiative forms part of a broader long-term vision to make Ghana more accessible, including plans to eventually allow people of African descent worldwide to travel to the country without paying visa fees.
“Our long-term vision is even broader. We are envisioning a future in which all people of African descent can return and travel to Ghana without paying visa fees as they reconnect with their ancestral homeland,” the President said.
He disclosed that the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior have been directed to begin work on implementing this vision.
The e-visa rollout is part of Ghana’s wider effort to build a technology-driven and citizen-focused public service, while aligning with progressive visa policies adopted by countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, Benin and Seychelles to promote regional integration and mobility.
