Ghana’s e-Visa charges expensive and uncompetitive – Akwasi Agyeman

His remarks come after President John Dramani Mahama on Monday, May 25, 2026, launched Ghana’s first e-Visa service portal. The digital platform enables travellers to apply for visas, make payments, and receive approvals electronically without visiting a Ghanaian embassy or consulate. During the launch, President Mahama also announced that African passport holders travelling to Ghana for business purposes would be exempt from visa fees when using the online platform. Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News, Akwasi Agyeman described the introduction of the e-Visa platform as a positive development but stressed that the cost of obtaining a Ghanaian visa remains a major challenge. According to him, the tourism industry is highly competitive, and while the digital platform makes visa applications more convenient, expensive visa fees could discourage travellers from choosing Ghana. He noted that Ghana’s visa charges are far higher compared to other African countries competing for tourists and investors. Citing examples, he said a single-entry visa for travellers from the United States costs about $260, while destinations such as Senegal offer visa-free access, and countries like Kenya and Rwanda charge significantly lower fees. Agyeman further stated that although the e-Visa initiative improves accessibility and convenience, Ghana’s reputation as an expensive destination could still deter potential visitors. Despite his concerns over the cost, he commended the government for introducing the digital visa system, describing it as secure, reliable, and a step in the right direction. Source:citynewsroom