President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched Ghana’s first-ever electronic visa (e-Visa) service portal, marking a significant shift in the country’s immigration and travel processing system.

Speaking at the launch on Monday, May 25, 2026, John Dramani Mahama said the initiative is aimed at modernising travel procedures and improving efficiency in the immigration system.

He announced that all African passport holders travelling to Ghana for business purposes will now apply exclusively through the new e-Visa system and will no longer be required to pay visa fees.

“From today, all African business travellers will process their visas through this platform and will not pay any visa fee,” he said.

President Mahama also confirmed the abolition of the visa-on-arrival arrangement, describing it as part of a broader reform of Ghana’s entry policies.

Cabinet clears E-Visa rollout set for May 25

“The visa-on-arrival system is hereby discontinued and replaced with this new digital regime,” he indicated.

According to him, the reform is also designed to strengthen continental integration and improve mobility between Ghana, Africa, and the diaspora.

He added that Ghana envisions a future where people of African descent can travel to the country without paying visa fees as part of reconnecting with their heritage.

Mahama directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior to develop the necessary framework to support the policy.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the system would enhance efficiency, with visa decisions expected within 48 hours after submission of complete applications.

The new digital platform allows foreign nationals to apply for visas online, make payments, and receive approval without visiting a Ghanaian embassy or consulate.

MRA/VPO