The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a drastic reduction in the processing time for visa acquisition, slashing it from an average of four to six weeks to just five working days.
The new directive announced by the minister as part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and investment, takes immediate effect.
Ablakwa announced the update on his official Facebook page on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, stating that the move gives real and practical meaning to President John Dramani Mahama’s inaugural address on January 7, 2025, where he declared that Ghana is open for business.
“We at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are determined to offer practical meaning through expedited consular facilitation and policy coherence to fully achieve the President’s vision,” he said.
He confirmed that adequate measures have been implemented at Ghana’s diplomatic missions worldwide to achieve this drastic reduction.
Ablakwa emphasised that while the new policy promises faster service, it does not guarantee automatic approval.
“A decision will be made within five (5) working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he clarified.
This expedited process is expected to enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in the global travel and business landscape, where efficient visa procedures are crucial to attracting visitors and investors.
“Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience,” the minister added.
