Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a major reform regarding the processing of visa applications to Ghana.
From now on, all applications will be processed within a maximum of five business days.
This measure takes effect immediately, significantly shortening the previous processing times, which ranged from four to six weeks on average.
This initiative responds to President John Mahama’s pledge during his inaugural address on January 7, 2025, where he declared that “Ghana is open for business.”
“At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are determined to offer practical meaning through expedited consular facilitation and policy coherence to fully achieve the President’s vision,” said Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
However, Minister Ablakwa clarified that the new policy does not mean visas will be granted automatically.
“I must however add that this 5-day visa processing policy does not by any stretch of imagination mean automatic visa approval; a decision will be made within 5 working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” the minister cautioned.
The minister concluded by encouraging international investors and tourists to explore Ghana’s cultural and economic richness: “Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience.”
