Government Rolls Out Free E-Visa for All African Travellers from May 2026
President John Dramani Mahama has officially introduced a free electronic visa (e-visa) regime for all African travellers, effective from May 25, 2026, confirming the accuracy of your report.
The policy allows holders of African passports travelling for business or tourism to apply online and pay no visa fees, following the launch of Ghana’s new digital visa platform.
Government data shows the initiative was unveiled during Africa Day celebrations and is part of a broader strategy to boost intra-African trade, tourism, and regional integration.
Under the new system:
All applications are processed entirely online via the e-visa platform
The previous visa-on-arrival system has been discontinued
Applicants must still undergo security screening before approval
Officials say the move is rooted in Ghana’s long-standing Pan-African policy direction, aimed at easing movement across the continent and strengthening economic ties under frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The government also noted that while visa fees have been removed, the system incorporates advanced digital checks and border security measures to manage risks and ensure controlled entry.
Analysts view the policy as one of the most significant steps toward visa liberalisation in Africa, positioning Ghana among a small group of countries actively lowering travel barriers for African citizens.
