Key points
- Ghana's new e-visa portal is now live, replacing manual visa applications with a fully digital system.
- African passport holders are now exempt from paying visa fees but must still obtain a digital authorization through the portal.
- International travelers face a new fee structure with standard single-entry visas starting at $260.
- Travelers should apply via the official government portal before departure to ensure they meet the new digital screening requirements.
The Ghanaian government has officially launched its national e-visa portal to modernize border entry and support continental tourism.
Ghana has officially transitioned to a digital visa regime, unveiling a new online platform designed to streamline applications for tourism and business. Launched on May 25, 2026, the system replaces manual, paper-based procedures with a high-security digital interface. A standout feature of the new policy is that all African passport holders still need an e-visa, but it is free, as the government has waived fees for African passport holders to encourage regional integration.
New e-visa fees and processing times
For non-African travelers, the new system introduces a structured fee schedule based on processing speed. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the digital overhaul aims to eliminate the cumbersome processes previously associated with physical embassy visits.
Applicants should be aware that the e-visa fees are notably high compared to previous manual filings. The following table outlines the current costs for international applicants:
| Visa Type | Standard Processing | Priority Processing | Express (5-hour) |
| :— | :— | :— | :— |
| Single-Entry e-Visa | $260 | $338 | $442 |
| Multiple-Entry e-Visa | $468 | $608 | $796 |
Strengthening African mobility and security
The fee waiver for African citizens is a strategic move to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). While the fees are removed for these travelers, the government emphasized that security screening remains a priority through the digital portal.
The Ghana Immigration Service confirmed that the platform is integrated with international security databases to ensure safety while facilitating faster travel.
“The e-visa platform presents Ghana with the opportunity not to only compete through natural resources but also through efficient systems that facilitate investment, tourism and global partnerships,” stated the Ministry during the launch event.
This digital shift follows the Ghanaian cabinet’s approval for e-visas for African travelers earlier this year, aligning with broader goals for the free movement of people across the continent.
