Ghana Expands Visa Waiver Program to Three New Countries

Ghana has approved visa waiver agreements with Antigua & Barbuda, the Maldives, and Zambia, allowing citizens of those nations to enter without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The agreements cover all passport categories – ordinary, service, and diplomatic.

Foreign Minister Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that Cabinet had granted approval, though the deals require parliamentary ratification before taking effect. The minister noted that negotiations are ongoing to further expand Ghana’s network of mobility partnerships.

The waivers differ from full visa-free entry: travelers may enter without advance application but remain subject to standard immigration checks upon arrival, including entry approval and stay limits.

Ghana’s approach reflects a deliberate policy of controlled liberalization – easing travel through bilateral agreements while retaining full oversight of border security and entry conditions. The government has separately distinguished these arrangements from broader multilateral visa-free frameworks.

Zambia is notable as a repeat partner; a standalone bilateral agreement was reached in February, and the country now features again in this latest round of approvals.

Officials say further agreements are in development as Accra works to strengthen the Ghanaian passport’s international standing while tightening security around travel documentation. Ghana is positioning itself as a regional hub for diplomacy, trade, and investment.