Using fake travel stamps could land you in jail — Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strong warning to Ghanaians against the use of falsified immigration stamps and travel endorsements, describing the practice as a serious criminal offence with far-reaching consequences.

In a statement dated May 1, 2026, the Ministry said it had recorded a growing number of incidents in which Ghanaian nationals abroad were arrested after foreign authorities uncovered forged entry and exit stamps in their passports.

“We have become aware of a number of cases involving Ghanaian nationals abroad who have been arrested and detained after foreign authorities detected forged immigration stamps in their passports,” the statement said.

According to the Ministry, individuals who engage in such acts risk severe sanctions, including prosecution, imprisonment, heavy fines, deportation and long-term bans from entering certain countries.

“Such offences may attract severe penalties, including arrest and prosecution, imprisonment, payment of heavy fines, deportation and long-term travel bans,” it added.

It cautioned that middlemen and agents who promise to manipulate travel records are acting unlawfully and often mislead unsuspecting clients into compromising situations.

Ablakwa warns foreigners against illegal acquisition of Ghanaian passports

“Agents and intermediaries who engage in such practices are acting illegally and risk exposing both themselves and their clients to serious legal consequences,” the Ministry warned.

The Ministry emphasised that all visa applications and travel documentation must be processed through legitimate and accredited channels, urging travellers to remain vigilant and avoid entrusting their passports to unauthorised persons.

“We urge the public to process visas and all travel documentation only through officially recognised channels and accredited institutions,” the statement noted.

It further reminded citizens that they bear full responsibility for any content in their travel documents, regardless of who handled them.

“Travellers are advised to avoid handing over their passports to unauthorised persons and are reminded that they remain personally responsible for the integrity and contents of their travel documents at all times,” it stated.

The Ministry also encouraged Ghanaians abroad and those intending to travel to comply with the immigration laws of their host countries and seek support when necessary.

“We encourage Ghanaians living or travelling abroad to comply strictly with the immigration laws of their host countries and to seek assistance from Ghana’s diplomatic missions whenever necessary,” it said.

Reaffirming its commitment, the Ministry added: “The Ministry remains committed to protecting the welfare of Ghanaian citizens abroad and will continue to work closely with Ghana's diplomatic missions and relevant authorities to address such cases.”

Read the statement below

MRA/SEA

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