Ghana's president: African passport holders exempt from visa fees

Written by Ziad Abdel Fattah:

The President of the Republic of Ghana launched, John Dramani Mahama, on Monday, launched the country’s electronic visa portal, coinciding with the celebration of the 63rd anniversary of African Union Day.

The portal is expected to revolutionize Ghana’s visa processing system, replacing manual procedures with a secure, technology-based electronic system designed to improve border security management, increase efficiency, and enhance transparency. The launch ceremony was attended by Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

In his keynote address during the launch ceremony, President Mahama stressed that this initiative is not just about launching a digital platform, but is a confirmation of Ghana’s commitment to innovation, communication, good governance, and the provision of effective public services.

Ghana exempts holders of African passports from visa fees.

He also announced that, starting from May 25, 2026, which is African Union Day, holders of African passports will no longer be required to pay visa fees when traveling to Ghana.

The decision issued by the Government of Ghana aims to promote the African Union’s continental integration agenda, as set out in one of the key programs (the African passport and the free movement of people) within Agenda 2063, which stipulates the free movement of all African citizens in all African countries.

Commenting on the activation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which is also a major program of the African Union, he explained that both programs are complementary and require implementation to drive economic growth on the continent.

Ghana opens its borders to tourism and business

For his part, Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzieto Ablako (a member of parliament) said that the launch of the electronic visa is proof of Ghana's commitment to opening its borders to business, tourism, and other activities.

He explained that the platform features an enhanced security system in accordance with international standards, and therefore, the country’s security will not be compromised.

Interior Minister Montaka Mohamed Mubarak stated that the e-Visa platform allows Ghana to compete not only through natural resources, but also through effective systems that facilitate investment, tourism and global partnerships.

Transport Minister Joseph Bockari Nkpe noted that integrating the e-Visa portal with Ghana’s passenger information systems will significantly improve border control procedures, passenger screening, and the overall travel experience.

Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, praised Ghana’s efforts in promoting African unity and strengthening relations between Africa and the Caribbean, and commended Ghana’s continued commitment to African unity and innovation.

She recalled the historical and cultural ties that bind Ghana and Jamaica, and used the occasion to express the Jamaican government's appreciation to Ghana for the assistance it provided during the reconstruction following the Cyclone Melissa disaster.

The high-level event brought together ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of security agencies, aviation sector stakeholders, tourism sector partners, and others.