The governments of the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of South Africa have signed a visa waiver agreement between the two countries for ordinary passport holders.
This means that passport holding citizens of both countries can travel and spend up to 90 days in either of these countries without a the need for a visa. This was disclosed in press statements issued by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and the South African High Commission in Ghana.
In July 2019, Ghana along with six (6) other countries was penned down for a visa-free travel regime by South Africa Home Affairs office. This commitment was reaffirmed when the South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa paid a two-day visit to Ghana in December 2021.
Excerpts of the statement issued by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry reads:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration wishes to inform the general public that the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of South Africa, have entered into an agreement on a visa waiver regime for holders of ordinary passport.”
It added that “travelers may transit through, depart from and stay in the territory of both countries for a cumulative period of up to ninety (90) days without recourse to work.”
The statement from the South African High Commission also reads:
“The High Commission of the Republic of South Africa has the honor to inform the Republic of Ghana that both governments agreed to implement the waiver for visa exemption for ordinary passport holders for a cumulative period of ninety (90) days per annum with effect from 01 November 2023.”
It concluded that “should the 90 days be exhausted within the twelve (12) months period, ordinary passport holders are required to apply for a visa to enter the Republic of South Africa.”
This arrangement according to both countries, takes effect from November 1st, 2023.
