Ghana Reintroduces Visa on Arrival for Festive Season 2023-2024

The Ghanaian government, through the Ministry of Transport, has announced the reinstatement of the visa-on-arrival system for passengers traveling to Ghana during this year’s festive season. The measure aims to ease access to the country for travelers and boost local tourism.

A more flexible visa policy to attract tourists

From December 1, 2024, to January 14, 2024, travelers heading to Ghana will no longer need to secure a visa before departure. Instead, they can apply for a visa upon arrival. The government hopes this will encourage more visitors to explore the country during this period, thereby supporting the local economy and tourism sector. A similar initiative was successfully implemented last winter.

Currently, non-African nationals require a visa in advance to enter Ghana. Only a few African countries—including Ghana’s neighbors—are exempt from this requirement. Most African passport holders already had the option to obtain a visa upon arrival.

Ghana reinstates visa on arrival

How Visa on Arrival Works

The process for obtaining a visa on arrival in Ghana is straightforward:

• Travelers must complete a visa application form upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport in Accra or at any land border crossing.

• A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the intended stay is required to apply.

• Visa fees must be paid on-site, typically in foreign currency such as US dollars, euros, or British pounds. Currently, a visa at an embassy costs between 50 and 100 euros per entry.

Please note this policy applies only to travelers visiting during the specified festive period. Those planning trips outside this window must still obtain a visa prior to travel.

Ghana had previously aimed to go fully digital with e-visa rollouts in 2019 and 2021, but this initiative remains pending implementation. Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ayorkor Botchwey, has also signaled “serious consideration” of visa-free entry (or free visas) for all Africans, following the examples set by Rwanda and Kenya.

Why Ghana Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Ghana is rapidly emerging as one of West Africa’s top travel destinations. Here’s why it should be on your 2023–2024 itinerary:

• Rich, diverse culture: From ancient forts like Elmina and Cape Coast Castle—key sites in the transatlantic slave trade—to vibrant traditional festivals, Ghana offers a deep historical experience.

• Sweeping landscapes: From pristine Atlantic beaches and tropical rainforests to lush highlands and golden savannahs, the country’s scenery is as varied as it is breathtaking.

• Flavorful cuisine: A delicious fusion of African, European, and Asian influences, the Ghanaian food scene dazzles with must-try dishes like fufu and jollof rice.

• Warm hospitality: Known for their friendliness, Ghanaians make every visitor feel instantly welcome in this convivial and safe setting.

Festive season highlights

The holiday period is a special time to experience Ghana at its most vibrant. Between family gatherings and lively public events, there’s always something festive to see and do. Add in an easier visa process through the return of visa-on-arrival, and now is the perfect time to plan a trip to Ghana this winter.