Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a major policy shift that will see visa applications processed within a maximum of five working days, a significant reduction from the previous average of four to six weeks.
The new policy, which takes effect immediately, is part of the Mahama administration’s broader strategy to position Ghana as a leading destination for business, investment, and tourism. In a Facebook post dated May 21, 2025.
Mr. Ablakwa revealed that comprehensive measures have already been implemented across Ghana’s diplomatic missions worldwide to ensure the swift and efficient rollout of the expedited visa regime.
“We have put in place adequate measures at our diplomatic missions to drastically cut down the visa processing time from the troubling average of 4 to 6 weeks to our new 5-day directive,” Ablakwa stated.
This development follows President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge during his January 7, 2025, inaugural address, reaffirming that “Ghana is open for business.”
Minister Ablakwa emphasized his commitment to removing bureaucratic bottlenecks and enhancing Ghana’s appeal to international investors and tourists. “As Foreign Minister, I am committed to positioning Ghana as the preferred destination for investors and tourists by making the country more competitive and eliminating red tape,” he noted.
However, he was quick to clarify that while the processing time has been reduced, it does not guarantee automatic approval of visa applications. “A decision will be made within 5 working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he explained.
Source: Edyspromtions.com
