BoG Issues New Guidelines For International Money Transfer Operators
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued new guidelines governing the registration and operations of International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) in Ghana, as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance transparency in the remittance market.
The guidelines are issued pursuant to Section 4(1)(e) of the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612) as amended, Section 2(3) of the Foreign Exchange Act, 2006 (Act 723), and Section 101(2)(i) of the Payment Systems and Services Act, 2019 (Act 987).
According to the Central Bank, the framework applies specifically to IMTOs that partner with banks, payment service providers (PSPs), or any other regulated financial institution approved by the Bank of Ghana for the termination of inward remittances.
The BoG said the guidelines are intended to provide a clear legal and regulatory framework for the registration and operations of IMTOs in Ghana, while defining the scope of permissible activities and operational requirements, including partnership arrangements with banks and PSPs.
It added that the framework also seeks to promote market integrity, safeguard consumers, and ensure accountability across the remittance value chain.
The guiding principles underpinning the guidelines include legality and enforceability, transparency, accountability, and consumer protection, among others.
On documentary requirements, the Central Bank noted that any entity seeking to operate in Ghana as an IMTO must apply to be registered with the Bank of Ghana to provide inward remittance services. The applicant must also be duly registered or licensed in its home country as an IMTO or remittance company.
Regarding application assessment and approval, the Bank of Ghana said it will review all submissions to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with the stipulated registration requirements.
The Central Bank is required to either grant or refuse an application within 90 days of receiving a complete submission. Where approval is granted, the Bank of Ghana will clearly specify the scope of operations, as well as the applicable terms and conditions under which the IMTO is permitted to operate in Ghana.
