The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ghana has issued a travel advisory to its citizens planning to travel to South Africa for medical treatment. The advisory, dated October 6, 2026, highlights the need for Ghanaians to obtain the appropriate visa if their treatment is expected to extend beyond the 90-day visa-free period. This move aims to prevent immigration compliance challenges faced by Ghanaian nationals in South Africa.
According to the Ministry, Ghanaian ordinary passport holders currently enjoy visa-free entry into South Africa for stays of up to 90 days. However, this visa-free arrangement is intended for short-term visits and does not apply to prolonged or recurring medical treatment. The Ministry has received reports from the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria of immigration compliance challenges involving Ghanaian nationals seeking medical treatment in South Africa.
A recent incident highlighted the potential consequences of non-compliance with South Africa's immigration requirements. A Ghanaian national was refused entry at O.R. Tambo International Airport due to complications arising from a previous overstay and was required to return to Ghana. Although no causal link was established between the entry refusal and the individual's subsequent passing, the Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering to immigration regulations.
Under Section 17 of South Africa's Immigration Act, 2002, foreign nationals requiring medical treatment exceeding three months are required to obtain a Medical Treatment Visa. The relevant regulations provide for such visas to be issued for renewable six-month periods and, in specific circumstances, for periods of up to 24 months. Ghanaians planning to travel to South Africa for prolonged or recurring medical treatment are strongly advised to obtain the appropriate Medical Treatment Visa before travelling.
Prospective medical travellers are encouraged to ensure that their visa arrangements adequately cover the anticipated duration of their treatment to avoid unintended overstays, possible refusal of entry, or disruption to ongoing medical care. Ghanaians already in South Africa for medical treatment have been advised to remain mindful of the validity of their immigration status and take necessary steps to regularise their stay where required.
The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria is available to provide consular assistance to Ghanaians in South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Ghana High Commission, will continue to engage South African authorities and monitor developments concerning immigration requirements affecting Ghanaian medical travellers. The government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Ghanaians travelling to and residing abroad.
The Ministry's advisory serves as a reminder for Ghanaians to be aware of the visa requirements for medical treatment in South Africa. By obtaining the necessary visa, Ghanaians can avoid potential complications and ensure a smooth medical treatment process in South Africa.
Key points
- Ghanaians travelling to South Africa for medical treatment exceeding 90 days must obtain a Medical Treatment Visa.
- The visa-free arrangement for Ghanaians in South Africa is only for short-term visits and does not apply to prolonged or recurring medical treatment.
- Ghanaians already in South Africa for medical treatment must regularise their stay and ensure their immigration status is valid.
