Ghana has announced a new policy to waive visa fees for African travellers, as part of efforts to promote regional integration and ease movement across the continent.
Authorities, however, stress that the policy does not remove existing security procedures.
Here is what to know about the initiative
1.Africans will not pay visa fees;
2.Not paying visa fees does not mean they will not go through visa screening.
Africans will still have to go through a visa application process like everyone else, but their applications will be free.
3.The government is introducing an e-Visa policy next month.
The free visa policy for Africans is part of the e-Visa initiative.
All applicants, including Africans, will have to apply through the e-Visa platform.
4.The new e-Visa system will be linked to Ghana’s API-PNR system and international crime databases, allowing consular officers to conduct background checks and ensure proper vetting.
5.People with criminal or unsatisfactory records will not be admitted into Ghana.
7.Not paying visa fees does not mean automatic entry. All entries will be vetted.
8.Investments have been made by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior and Transport to ensure a secure and technologically advanced system.
Officials say the measures are designed to balance easier access for African visitors with strong border controls, ensuring that national security is not compromised.
