Africa - Togo

Togo drops visa requirement for African travelers

Starting May 18, 2026, Togo is granting visa-free entry to nationals of all African countries who hold a valid national passport. The measure applies to stays of up to 30 days, but it does not eliminate pre-travel formalities.

By VisasNews

Published on

Togo drops visa requirement for African travelers
Togo grants a 30-day visa exemption to African nationals © Depositphotos

African travelers no longer need a visa to visit Togo for a short stay.

In a statement issued in Lomé on May 18, 2026, Togo’s Ministry of Security announced that the President of the Council had decided to grant an entry visa exemption for all nationals of African countries traveling to Togolese territory.

The exemption applies to travelers holding a valid national passport and takes effect immediately, as of Monday, May 18, 2026. It allows stays in Togo of up to 30 days.

Authorities stressed, however, that the measure does not exempt travelers from complying with the security, immigration and public health requirements applicable upon entry into the country.

Press release from the Togolese Ministry of Security regarding the visa exemption granted to African citizens

A 30-day visa exemption to “promoting African integration”

Togo’s decision, which comes as Ghana is also preparing to facilitate entry for African travelers through a free ETA, is directly aimed at intra-African mobility. In its statement, the Ministry of Security said the measure reflects the authorities’ commitment to “promoting African integration,” “strengthening the free movement of people and goods” and “encouraging greater cooperation among the states and peoples of the continent.”

The Ministry of Security also presented the measure as a way to strengthen Togo’s appeal, as authorities seek to position the country as a regional hub for services, business, culture and human exchange in Africa.

In practical terms, nationals of African countries no longer need a visa to enter Togo through land, air or sea border crossings, with the relevant government agencies instructed to take the necessary steps to ensure the measure is effectively implemented.

Togo’s travel declaration remains mandatory

The visa exemption does not mean entry without formalities. The ministry reiterated that eligible travelers must still complete a travel declaration through the dedicated government platform, available at voyage.gouv.tg.

The declaration must be completed at least 24 hours before arrival in Togo. Once the process is completed, the traveler receives a travel slip, which must be presented at border checkpoints. Togolese authorities describe this document as a prior administrative and security formality.

The statement also emphasizes that the visa exemption does not prevent the enforcement of rules related to irregular entry, unlawful stay, administrative policing measures or national security.

Non-African travelers who are subject to visa requirements may continue to apply for an electronic visa through the same government platform.

Author:
The VisasNews editorial team
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