Togo has announced a major change to its immigration policy by granting visa-free entry to citizens of all African countries in a move aimed at strengthening regional integration and boosting cross-border mobility across the continent. The new policy took effect immediately on May 18 and allows African nationals holding valid passports to enter and stay in Togo for up to 30 days without requiring a visa. In a statement, Security Minister Calixte Batossie Madjoulba said the decision reflects Togo’s commitment to Pan-African cooperation, economic openness and stronger cultural and social ties among African nations. Authorities say the government hopes to position Togo as a regional hub for trade, business, tourism and services within West Africa and the broader continent.
The move aligns Togo with a growing number of African countries, including Rwanda, that have relaxed visa restrictions in support of the African Union’s goals of promoting free movement and continental integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework. Despite the easing of travel restrictions, officials stressed that immigration and security controls will remain in force at all entry points. Travelers are still required to complete an online travel declaration at least 24 hours before arrival and present the approved document at land, air or sea border crossings. The government said the visa-free policy is now operational nationwide and is expected to encourage tourism, investment and stronger people-to-people connections across Africa. Analysts say the decision could improve regional trade and mobility while helping Togo strengthen its role as a transport and logistics gateway in West Africa.
