Ghana set to launch e-Visa in Q1 2024 to enhance tourist and investor experience
The Government has revealed plans to introduce an Electronic Visa platform in the first quarter of 2024, as part of a comprehensive strategy to address challenges faced by tourists and investors traveling to Ghana.
Akwasi Agyeman, Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority, shared this development on the PM Express Business Edition on November 23, 2023.
Mr Agyeman emphasized the collaborative efforts between the Foreign Affairs Ministry and vendors in advancing this initiative, signaling substantial progress. Recognizing the competitive landscape for attracting investors and tourists in the region, he stressed the importance of positioning Ghana as the preferred destination for both.
The initiative is a key component of a broader program named “Easing the Diaspora Pathway,” aimed at streamlining the travel experience for those visiting Ghana. The CEO highlighted the importance of facilitating tourism, framing it as an integral aspect of the nation’s development agenda.
As a precursor to the Electronic Visa platform, the government is implementing a ‘Visa-On-Arrival initiative’ from December 1 to January 15, 2024. During this period, airlines are mandated to allow passengers who choose this option to fly to Accra without insisting on a prior visa issued by the Government of Ghana.
Mr Agyeman noted that this Visa-On-Arrival initiative is an initial step, with plans underway for a subsequent “Free Visa Initiative” for individuals traveling to Ghana. While visitors will still be required to pay for the visa at the airport, Agyeman clarified that the system aims to be self-sustaining, avoiding reliance on the consolidated fund for sector initiatives.
To ensure seamless implementation, the Transport Ministry has engaged with airlines, directing them to comply with the Visa-On-Arrival directive. Mr Agyeman underscored the importance of preventing any potential embarrassment for travelers at the airport, highlighting ongoing engagements with airlines to integrate the government’s Visa-On-Arrival system into their operations.
