Ghana's Cabinet has approved a visa waiver agreement with Antigua and Barbuda, moving the deal closer to implementation pending parliamentary ratification, according to Antigua News Room.
The agreement, which also covers the Maldives and Zambia, would permit visa-free travel between Ghana and Antigua and Barbuda for stays of up to 30 days once it enters into force.
Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that the arrangements were concluded during diplomatic engagements and will take effect following approval by parliament. The waiver will apply to holders of ordinary, service, and diplomatic passports, enabling short-term travel without the requirement of a visa.
The agreement is expected to strengthen bilateral ties between Antigua and Barbuda and Ghana, while improving ease of movement for citizens and officials of both nations.
Minister Ablakwa indicated that Ghana intends to expand similar agreements with other countries, while also enhancing the security of its passport system through the introduction of chip-embedded technology designed to prevent misuse.
He further announced plans to launch an electronic visa platform aimed at streamlining applications and reinforcing border controls through integration with international security databases.
As part of a broader policy framework, Ghana is pursuing a separate initiative to remove visa fees for African citizens, though applicants will still be required to complete standard entry procedures, including background checks.
The visa waiver arrangement with Antigua and Barbuda is expected to facilitate greater movement between the Caribbean and West Africa, particularly in the areas of tourism, business, and cultural exchange.
