Ghana Tourism Federation backs e-Visa rollout, urges cut in fees to boost tourism

The Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) has welcomed the government’s introduction of the Electronic Visa (e-Visa) system, describing it as a major step forward in modernising Ghana’s travel and tourism infrastructure.

In a statement issued by its President, Seth Ocran, on June 2, 2026, the Federation said the initiative reflects a strong commitment by government to improving ease of travel, boosting tourism, and positioning Ghana as a competitive destination on the African continent and beyond.

GHATOF praised the Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for what it called his leadership and personal commitment to the rollout of the digital visa system.

According to the Federation, the e-Visa platform significantly reduces bureaucratic bottlenecks, improves the visitor experience, and opens Ghana to a wider pool of tourists, investors, and members of the diaspora.

The Federation noted that the private sector had long advocated for simplified entry processes, adding that the introduction of the e-Visa marks an important milestone in that direction.

It expressed optimism that the system will enhance tourism growth and strengthen Ghana’s global appeal.

However, GHATOF also raised concerns about the current pricing structure of the e-Visa, saying it could potentially limit the system’s full impact on tourism growth.

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The Federation explained that it has received consistent feedback from international source markets across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, with many prospective travellers expressing concern that the fees may discourage visits to Ghana.

While clarifying that it is not opposed to visa charges, GHATOF argued that the current fee levels may need adjustment to better support the country’s tourism ambitions.

It stressed that pricing should be structured to encourage higher visitor numbers rather than maximise revenue per applicant.

GHATOF further suggested that government consider differentiated fee categories based on purpose of visit, duration of stay, and visa type. It also urged authorities to take into account the broader economic benefits of increased tourist arrivals, particularly for sectors such as hospitality, aviation, transport, arts, culture, and retail.

The Federation called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, to review the e-Visa pricing framework in a way that balances revenue considerations with the need to stimulate sustained growth in tourist arrivals.

GHATOF concluded that a more competitive and visitor-friendly visa regime would significantly strengthen Ghana’s position as a leading tourism destination while generating broader long-term economic gains.

Read the statement below:



AK/BAI