Ghana has launched a new electronic visa (e-visa) platform, marking a change in its visa issuance process for African passport holders traveling to Ghana for business. This initiative, announced by President John Dramani Mahama, replaces the previous visa-on-arrival system with an exclusively online application process for this group of travelers.1
WHY THIS MATTERS
This development may be relevant for global mobility programs, particularly for organizations facilitating business travel to Ghana from other African countries. By eliminating the visa-on-arrival system in favor of a mandatory online application, the process introduces new administrative steps for both travelers and sponsoring employers.
The move to an e‑visa system introduces pre‑arrival screening as part of the visa process, potentially reducing entry risks and delays for organizations and their employees.
Key Highlights
- All African passport holders traveling to Ghana for business may now apply for their visa through the e-visa platform; the visa-on-arrival system for this group has been discontinued.
- The e-visa system enables pre-travel risk assessment, supporting Ghana’s efforts to identify and mitigate security risks prior to entry.
- The government has linked this initiative to broader policy objectives, including investment, tourism, and digital infrastructure.
- The launch reflects coordinated efforts among the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Transport, the Ghana Immigration Service, and technical partners.
KPMG INSIGHTS
In light of the change, organizations, entities, and individuals might consider the following:
- Organizations could update travel policies and internal communications to reflect the upcoming fee waiver and new e-visa process.
- HR and travel managers could update guidance for staff on the new procedures and monitor for implementation details from Ghanaian authorities.
- Mobile employees could note changes in entry procedures and visa‑related costs.
If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about the scope of the directive, its application and potential impacts, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified immigration professional or a member of the GMS/People Services team with KPMG in Ghana (see the Contacts section).
ENDNOTE:
1 Ministry of the Interior, Republic of Ghana, “Ghana Launches E-Visa Platform,” published on 25 May 2026.
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Ghana.
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