As Africa celebrated its 63rd AU Day on 25th May 2026, President John Dramani Mahama unveiled Ghana’s electronic visa portal in Accra. The launch signaled more than technological progress; it reaffirmed Ghana’s resolve to advance innovation, connectivity, good governance, and public service delivery.

The new e-Visa regime replaces manual visa procedures with a secure, technology-driven online system designed to improve border security management, efficiency, and transparency. For travellers, it means faster applications, fewer bottlenecks, and a process that meets international standards without compromising safety.

What it means for Africa

At the heart of the reform is a clear signal to the continent; Africa is open to Africans. President Mahama announced that from 25th May 2026, holders of African passports traveling to Ghana for business or tourism are fully exempted from visa fees. The previous visa-on-arrival system has been discontinued, with all African travelers now applying exclusively through the online platform.

This decision directly advances the African Union’s Agenda 2063 flagship programme on the African Passport and Free Movement of People. By removing cost barriers and simplifying entry; Ghana is turning the vision of continental integration into practice.

The Government is ensuring outdated systems no longer define Ghana’s engagement with the world and these reforms also reflect a broader ambition to leverage technology to improve governance, strengthen border management, deepen African integration, and enhance national security.

The move also complements the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, creating the conditions for freer movement of people, goods, and ideas across the continent. As the President noted, both are required to drive economic growth and unlock Africa’s potentials.

Security, Speed, and Convenience

The e-Visa platform is built for the modern traveler; applications are submitted online, cutting down paperwork and in-person visits and yet efficiency will not come at the expense of security. All applicants continue to undergo strict checks and due diligence in line with national security requirements.

The platform features an enhanced security system of international standard, as such the security of the country will not be compromised.

The launch is part of a wider upgrade of Ghana’s travel experience. President Mahama outlined new 3D scanning systems being installed at Terminals 2 and 3 of Ghana’s  International Airport, which will eliminate the need to remove laptops and liquids from hand luggage. From August, additional equipment will remove the inconvenience of taking off shoes and belts during screening.

Integrated with Ghana’s passenger information systems, the e-Visa portal will significantly improve border control, passenger screening, and the overall travel experience.

For investors, students, tourists, and the African diaspora, the message is clear, Ghana is indeed open for business and tourism.

A Pan-African and Global Gesture

The launch drew international recognition as Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, JP, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, commended Ghana for advancing African unity and strengthening ties between Africa and the Caribbean. She recalled the historic and cultural bonds between the two nations and conveyed Jamaica’s appreciation for Ghana’s support after Hurricane Melissa.

For posterity, the e-Visa embodies Ghana’s Pan-African spirit in digital form. It positions the country as a leading digital destination in Africa and a home for continental mobility. The platform allows Ghana to compete not only through natural resources but through efficient systems that facilitate investment, tourism, and global partnerships.

Apply Online

Eligible travelers can access the portal @: 

https://evisa.immigration.gov.gh/register

With this reform, Ghana is extending a warm digital handshake to the world. It is a practical step towards a more integrated, mobile, and connected Africa, where borders facilitate opportunity rather than hinder it.

Compiled by Moses Sackie, Counsellor/Information, Embassy of Ghana, the People’s Republic of China