Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a major visa policy shift: visa applications to Ghana will now be processed within five working days, down from the previous 4 to 6 weeks.
The new directive, which takes immediate effect, aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to making Ghana a top destination for tourism and investment.
Speaking in a Facebook post on May 21, 2025, Ablakwa said the government has deployed efficient systems across Ghana’s diplomatic missions to support the accelerated processing.
“We have taken concrete steps to eliminate long delays by ensuring our missions worldwide can now process visa decisions within five working days,” he stated.
The move fulfills part of President Mahama’s “Ghana is open for business” pledge made during his January 7, 2025, inauguration.
While the new policy promises faster turnaround, the Minister emphasized that it does not guarantee automatic approval.
“Applicants will receive a decision—approval or otherwise—within five working days,” he clarified.
Ablakwa reiterated that the reform reflects Ghana’s broader ambition to improve ease of travel and attract global partners.
“We want investors and tourists to choose Ghana, and cutting out red tape is key to achieving that,” he said.
“Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience.”
