By Samuel Nana Effah Obeng

Copyright modernghana

Ghana’s tourism industry is crying out for change. Stakeholders say the country is sitting on a golden opportunity — worth at least half a billion dollars a year — but risks losing it unless government fully implements a year-round Visa on Arrival (VoA) policy.

For many in the diaspora and global travel community, Ghana is a dream destination — a land rich in culture, history, and warmth. Yet that dream often gets cut short even before they get to the airport, not because of the flights, but because of the visa process. Right now, travelers must mail their passports across borders just to secure entry. For many, it’s a dealbreaker.

“Just last year, one U.S.-based agent had 15 people ready to visit Ghana. Ten of them dropped out — not because of cost or time, but simply because the visa process was too complicated,” lamented Ja’Nette Canteen, founder of Traveling with Ja’.

It’s a frustration echoed by David Duron — Nana Ekow Ankama I, a Developmental Chief in KEEA and co-owner of Lemon Group in Elmina and Cape Coast. “We estimate that about 40% of our cancellations come down to visas. When tourists compare Ghana’s $150 fee — often limited to December only — with destinations like Kenya or Bali, where a simple $30 to $50 visa is waiting at the airport, Ghana loses out. And that loss is huge.”

Tourism already pumps about $4.8 billion into Ghana’s economy every year, contributing 5.5% to GDP. But analysts say with friendlier visa policies, Ghana could double its arrivals — unlocking an extra $500 million annually and creating over 160,000 jobs across hospitality, transport, and local enterprises.

The benefits would ripple far beyond hotels and restaurants. Year-round Visa on Arrival could mean more airlines flying direct to Accra, cheaper ticket prices, stronger business for artisans and tour operators, and deeper connections with the African diaspora.

“Ghana has already proven it works,” Canteen reminded. “Every December, when Visa on Arrival is allowed, the tourists come. So the question is — why not all year?”

Meanwhile, competing destinations aren’t waiting. Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda are making entry smoother with regional visas that cover multiple countries in one go. Stakeholders fear Ghana risks being left behind if action isn’t taken fast.

“This is low-hanging fruit,” David stressed. “It doesn’t need billions in investment. But the returns — for the economy, for jobs, for Ghana’s global image — could be transformational.”

The message from the tourism industry is clear: Ghana has the culture, the history, the people. All that’s left is to open the doors wide enough for the world to come in.