The Government of Ghana has announced a significant change to its visa policy, aimed at making the country more accessible to travelers and investors. Effective immediately, all visa applications to Ghana will be processed within five working days.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, in a Facebook post on Tuesday, May 21, 2025. The new system replaces the previous lengthy process, which took between four to six weeks in many cases.
“We have put in place adequate measures at our diplomatic missions to drastically cut down the visa processing time from the troubling average of four to six weeks to our new five-day directive,” the Minister stated.
Mr. Ablakwa clarified that the shortened processing period does not mean every application will be approved. Instead, applicants will receive a definite decision—approval or denial—within five working days of submitting their request.
“A decision will be made within five working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he added.
This new policy is part of efforts to fulfill President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge during his January 7, 2025 inaugural address that “Ghana is open for business.” The Foreign Minister emphasized that the Ministry is working to give practical meaning to that promise by removing bureaucratic delays and making Ghana’s consular services more efficient and responsive.
“As Foreign Minister, I want to make Ghana a more attractive destination for investors and tourists by removing the bureaucratic hurdles that have discouraged many over the years,” said Mr. Ablakwa.
The five-day visa policy is expected to have a positive impact on tourism, business travel, and foreign partnerships, helping to drive economic growth and international collaboration.
“Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience,” the Minister concluded.