According to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s newly launched e-visa portal is a key part of the government’s broader plan to make the country more welcoming to business, tourism, and investment. The online visa system, which became operational on Africa Day, enables travelers worldwide to apply for Ghanaian visas entirely online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.
Speaking at the launch event held at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City on Monday, May 25, Mr. Ablakwa stated that the initiative aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s goal of increasing Ghana’s accessibility to the global community. He recalled that the President had declared Ghana open for business once again, and that the visa process must reflect this vision.
The Minister noted that the old visa application process caused significant frustration among travelers and international partners due to frequent delays and bureaucratic hurdles. He highlighted complaints about long queues, slow processing, and difficulty obtaining visas.
Mr. Ablakwa revealed that the new e-visa policy received Cabinet approval as part of efforts to modernize immigration systems and boost investor confidence. He explained that the President, under his “Ghana Open for Business” strategy, ordered a complete overhaul of the visa processing system, leading to the launch of the e-visa portal supported by a formal policy.
Visa Fees Waived for Africans
In a separate significant announcement, the Minister confirmed that visa fees have been abolished for all African travelers entering Ghana. He declared that, for the first time in the nation’s history, Africans no longer have to pay any visa fees to enter the country. He described this move as a major step forward in promoting regional integration and strengthening continental ties.
Addressing social media claims about a pre-existing e-visa contract, Mr. Ablakwa assured Ghanaians that no such contract exists. He explained that after legal review, the Attorney General confirmed that an existing machine-readable passport contract does not equate to an e-visa arrangement. He also noted that the project is being carried out as a public-private partnership, meaning taxpayers are not bearing the setup costs. The private partner is implementing the system under the oversight of the Ministry of Communications, NITA, and the Cyber Security Authority.
National Security Will Not Be Compromised — Muntaka
Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak reassured the public that the streamlined visa process will not undermine national security. Speaking at the same event, he emphasized that modern nations compete through efficient systems that facilitate travel and business. He stated that the e-visa platform is designed to eliminate delays and uncertainty for those seeking entry into Ghana.
Mr. Muntaka said the platform removes barriers, offering speed, convenience, and confidence instead of unnecessary delays and unpredictability. He believes the initiative sends a strong signal that Ghana is ready for tourism, investment, and global partnerships, reinforcing the message that Ghana is open for business.
Nevertheless, he stressed that openness does not imply weakness. The government remains committed to protecting borders and citizens. He explained that the digital system allows authorities to screen travelers before they board a flight, enabling early risk assessment, threat identification, and action. He described this as modern border control and responsible leadership that protects citizens while welcoming the world.
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