Togo formalizes visa exemption for African nationals

Economic governance

Thursday, 28 May 2026 17:31

Togo formalizes visa exemption for African nationals

(Togo First) - Togo has officially abolished entry visa requirements for all African nationals, becoming one of a handful of African countries to offer visa-free access across the continent.

The measure, initially announced by Council President Faure Gnassingbé during the Biashara Africa Summit held in Lomé earlier this year, was formally approved at a Cabinet meeting on May 26, 2026.

Under the new decree, African citizens holding a valid passport or travel document can stay in Togo for up to 30 days without a visa. The government said standard immigration procedures and border controls will remain in force.

Authorities may still deny entry to individuals considered a threat to national security, public safety or public health. Travelers are also required to complete a pre-arrival declaration form on the official government portal, voyage.gouv.tg, at least 24 hours before entering the country.

With the reform, Togo joins countries such as Rwanda, Benin, Seychelles, the Gambia and Ghana in allowing visa-free travel for all African citizens. The move comes as African governments seek to improve mobility and accelerate regional integration under initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to the African Development Bank’s 2025 Africa Visa Openness Index, only 28.2% of travel within Africa currently takes place without visa requirements.

Lomé says the policy is intended to boost trade, tourism and cultural exchanges while strengthening the country’s position as a regional business and logistics hub. Officials also presented the measure as part of broader efforts to encourage intra-African cooperation and economic integration.

Ayi Renaud Dossavi

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