Ghana announced a 46-day visa-on-arrival regime welcoming Christmas season visitors

Ghana has instituted a 46-day visa-on-arrival policy for travelers arriving between December 1, 2023, and January 15, 2024.

This visa-on-arrival program has been approved due to a collaborative effort by the Ghana Immigration Service, the Ghana Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry for the Interior, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.

The government’s 10-year ‘Beyond The Return’ campaign, which encourages Africans living abroad to visit and re-establish connections with Ghana, includes the pre-travel visa waiver.

Ghana is seriously considering granting visa-free entry to all Africans and people of African descent residing abroad, according to recent remarks made by Foreign Affairs Minister, Ayorkor Botchwey. presently, the only African countries that allow all citizens of Africa to enter without a visa are Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin.

Ghana Tourism Authority said, “We are excited to announce that the Government of Ghana has authorized Non-Pre-Approval Visa on Arrival for visitors coming to Ghana from December 1, 2023, to January 15, 2024. This pre-approval waiver has been launched as part of the December in GH campaign, which is a crucial element of the 10-year “Beyond the Return” initiative.”

“In line with the objectives of the “Beyond the Return” initiative, this waiver aids in strengthening Ghana’s position as the preferred destination for tourists and investors from the diaspora and beyond. It seeks to deepen the bonds between Ghana and its global community while providing opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth.” the statement read.

The move to grant Africans entry without a visa is consistent with Ghana’s larger initiatives to forge closer ties with the diaspora and position itself as a warm and approachable hub.

As the government explores this possibility, it reflects a strategic effort to boost tourism, enhance cultural exchange, and celebrate the shared heritage of people of African descent across the globe.