Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced a groundbreaking visa-free regime for all foreign nationals entering the country, effective December 1, 2023.
The move is part of the government's response to the popular ‘December in Ghana' initiative, encouraging international visitors to make Ghana their preferred holiday destination during the festive season.
Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Ampratwum Sarpong, revealed in an interview with JoyNews' Blessed Sogah that the visa-free policy aims to streamline and expedite the travel process for foreigners during the bustling month of December.
The policy allows any foreign national entering Ghana throughout December to obtain their visa on arrival within an estimated time of 60 minutes.
Hon Sarpong emphasized that the decision was prompted by the government's push to encourage the diaspora to return home and aligns with the vibrant activities planned for December.
The deputy minister acknowledged the significance of December as a month of increased activity and celebrations, attracting Ghanaians living abroad to return and partake in the Christmas festivities.
The visa-free regime is a strategic effort to address the challenges faced by travellers in obtaining visas on time, ensuring a smoother and less frustrating experience.
Hon Sarpong stated, “Being a responsive government, we've looked at it, and we think one of the best things that we can do is to lessen the frustrations of their travel to their home base and make it possible for them to get down here and get their visas.”
The visa-free policy will be in effect throughout the month of December, facilitating the seamless entry of international visitors into Ghana.
Hon Sarpong also hinted at ongoing efforts by the government to secure visa-free waivers from various countries, citing a recent agreement with Barbados that allows diplomatic service and ordinary Ghanaian passport holders to travel to Barbados visa-free.
While the visa-free regime is currently limited to the month of December, Sarpong suggested that discussions on a more extensive and long-term visa waiver program are ongoing, stating, “there's a committee looking at that.”