Cabinet approves visa waiver agreements with Zambia, Maldives and Antigua and Barbuda

The government of Ghana has approved new visa waiver agreements with Antigua and Barbuda, the Maldives and Zambia as part of efforts to expand travel opportunities and strengthen diplomatic relations, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, April 22, the Minister said Cabinet had granted approval for the agreements, which are expected to ease travel between Ghana and the three countries. The move forms part of Ghana’s broader foreign policy strategy to promote international cooperation, boost tourism, and create more accessible pathways for business and cultural exchanges.

He explained that the arrangements will apply to holders of all categories of passports, including ordinary, service and diplomatic passports. This inclusive approach ensures that a wide range of travelers—from tourists and business professionals to government officials—will benefit from the new policy framework.

Under the agreement, Ghanaians and citizens of the three countries will be able to undertake short visits of up to 30 days per trip without the requirement for visas. This is expected to significantly reduce travel barriers, encourage bilateral trade, and promote people-to-people connections among Ghana, Antigua and Barbuda, Maldives and Zambia.

Mr Ablakwa further noted that the agreements are expected to be laid before Parliament for ratification in due course. Parliamentary approval will be a key step in formalizing the agreements and ensuring they are fully implemented in accordance with Ghana’s legal framework.

He added that government will continue to pursue additional visa waiver arrangements while also strengthening security measures around the issuance of Ghanaian passports. According to the Minister, maintaining robust security systems alongside expanded travel freedoms remains a top priority, as Ghana seeks to balance openness with national security concerns.

The latest agreements are also seen as part of Ghana’s commitment to enhancing its global presence and fostering stronger diplomatic ties with countries across different regions of the world.