All applications to visit Ghana will be handled within five working days, according to a new visa policy implemented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, made the statement on Tuesday, May 21, 2025, in a Facebook post.
The change, he said, is effective immediately and aims to address long-standing delays in visa processing, which frequently took four to six weeks.
“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,” Mr. Ablakwa wrote.
The shortened review time does not ensure automatic approval, he clarified.
Instead, within five working days of filing their request, applicants will receive a response, either approving or rejecting it.
“A decision will be made within five working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he added.
Mr. Ablakwa claims that the action is consistent with President John Dramani Mahama’s declaration that “Ghana is open for business” in his inaugural speech on January 7, 2025.
He stated that by eliminating needless delays and improving the responsiveness of consular services, the Ministry is attempting to give that pronouncement real-world significance.
“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,” Mr. Ablakwa stated.
“Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience,” Mr. Ablakwa added.
Since the nation is aggressively looking for international alliances, it is anticipated that the new visa policy will help government initiatives to increase tourism, business travel, and international involvement.
Source: newsthemegh.com