Stakeholders in Ghana’s tourism industry are appealing to government to fully roll out a Visa on Arrival (VoA) policy as part of efforts to unlock the country’s huge tourism potential and make Ghana a more competitive destination.
Although Ghana has become a preferred holiday and heritage stop for many in the diaspora, industry operators say the current visa process remains a major barrier. Travelers have to mail their physical passports to complete the visa process — a system that many describe as stressful and outdated.
“Just last year, one U.S.-based agent had 15 confirmed guests for a tour of Ghana. 10 of them dropped out simply because the visa process was too complicated,” revealed Ja’Nette Canteen, founder of Traveling with Ja’.
David Duron, also known as Nana Ekow Ankama I, a Developmental Chief in the Komenda Edina Equafo Abirim Municipality (KEEA) and a co-owner of Lemon Group, operators of several hospitality facilities in Elmina and Cape Coast – shared similar concerns. “We estimate that about 40% of our cancellations are because visitors give up on the visa process. Once they compare Ghana with destinations like Kenya, Uganda or Bali — where a visa on arrival costs just $30 to $50 — Ghana cannot compete.”
Currently, Ghana charges $150 for Visa on Arrival, and even then, it is mostly made available only during the December holiday season. Stakeholders argue that if government extends this policy year-round, it will open the doors to a much wider global market.
Tourism is already a major contributor to Ghana’s economy, accounting for about 5.5% of GDP and generating approximately $4.8 billion annually. Analysts project that doubling tourist arrivals could bring in an additional $500 million each year, while creating more than 160,000 new jobs in hospitality, transport, and related sectors.
Industry watchers also highlight the wider benefits of a permanent Visa on Arrival policy: more airlines adding direct routes to Accra, reduced flight costs, expanded opportunities for local businesses, and stronger ties with the African diaspora.
“Ghana has already proven that Visa on Arrival works during December. If it can be done then, why not all year?” Canteen asked.
The call comes at a time when competing African destinations are aggressively marketing themselves to international tourists with simplified entry requirements. Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, for instance, have introduced regional visas that allow travelers to visit multiple countries with a single document.
Stakeholders are urging the Ministries of Tourism and Foreign Affairs to treat the issue as a priority. “This is low-hanging fruit,” said David. “It doesn’t require massive investment, but the returns could be enormous for Ghana’s economy and its young workforce.”
As the debate continues, operators believe the decision is clear: making entry easier is the surest way to position Ghana as the gateway to Africa.
