The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has detailed how Ghana’s newly announced Free Visa for Africans policy will operate, stressing that the initiative will be guided by strict security protocols and modern technology.
In a post shared on X on April 3, 2026, he explained that while Africans will no longer pay visa fees, they will still be required to undergo a formal visa application and screening process.
According to him, the policy does not amount to automatic entry into Ghana, noting that all applicants will be vetted to ensure national security is not compromised.
He disclosed that the government will introduce an e-Visa system in May 2026, which will serve as the main platform for all visa applications.
The Free Visa for Africans policy, he said, is a component of this broader digital visa initiative.
Ablakwa eyes new visa waivers following rollout of high-security E-Passports
“All applicants, including Africans, will apply through the e-Visa platform, but Africans will not be charged,” he clarified.
The new system will be integrated with Ghana’s API-PNR system and international crime databases, enabling consular officers to conduct thorough background checks.
Individuals with criminal records or deemed security risks will be denied entry, he stated.
Ablakwa stressed that significant investments have been made by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Transport to ensure a robust and technologically-advanced system.
He also addressed concerns about delays in implementing a similar policy previously announced by former President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2024, explaining that it could not take off at the time due to the absence of the necessary security and operational frameworks.
He noted that President John Mahama has now confirmed Ghana’s readiness to implement both the e-Visa platform and the Free Visa for Africans policy.
The rollout is scheduled to coincide with Africa Day on May 25, 2026, marking a significant step toward enhancing regional integration while maintaining border security.
Read the full post below:
Facts about Ghana’s new Free Visas for Africans Policy as announced by President Mahama:
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) April 3, 2026
1) Africans will not pay visa fees;
2) Not paying visa fees does not mean you will not go through visa screening. Africans will still have to go through a visa application process like…
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