Togo has announced the removal of visa requirements for all African nationals, becoming the latest country on the continent to ease travel restrictions for visitors from across Africa.
The decision, which took effect on Monday, May 18, was announced by the Minister of Security, Calixte Batossie Madjoulba, on behalf of the Togolese government.
“The Minister of Security informs both national and international public opinion of the decision taken by the President of the Council to grant, effective today, Monday, May 18, 2026, a visa exemption for entry into Togolese territory for all nationals of African states holding a valid national passport,” the statement read.
According to the minister, the policy is part of broader efforts by the Togolese leadership to strengthen continental unity and facilitate easier movement across Africa.
“This measure reflects the consistent commitment of the highest Togolese authorities to promote African integration, strengthen the free movement of people and goods, and encourage greater cooperation among the states and peoples of the continent,” the statement added.
The government further said the visa waiver aligns with its ambitions to position Togo as a strategic destination for investment, culture, and commerce in Africa.
“It forms part of the policy of openness, modernization, and attractiveness driven by the President of the Council, with the ambition of making Togo a regional hub for services, business, culture, and human exchange at the heart of Africa,” the statement continued.
Despite the removal of visa requirements, authorities clarified that travelers must still comply with immigration, health, and security procedures before entering the country.
“The Minister of Security reminds travelers that the visa exemption, valid for a maximum period of thirty (30) days, does not exempt them from complying with security, immigration, and public health requirements applicable when entering the national territory,” the statement further read.
The government added that travelers will still be required to complete advance registration through the state’s online platform before arrival.
“In this regard, immigration procedures relating to prior registration on the dedicated government platform remain in force. Concerned travelers must complete their travel declaration on voyage.gouv.tg at least twenty-four (24) hours before their arrival in order to obtain a travel slip to present at border posts. This slip constitutes a prior administrative and security requirement,” the statement noted.
Officials also warned that the exemption does not shield travelers from immigration enforcement or national security regulations.
“The visa exemption measure does not prevent the application of legal and regulatory provisions relating to irregular entry, illegal stay, as well as administrative police and national security measures,” the statement explained.
Authorities said all relevant agencies had already been directed to facilitate the implementation of the new policy across the country’s borders.
“Relevant administrations and services have been instructed to take all necessary measures to ensure the effective implementation of this provision at all land, air, and sea entry points,” the statement concluded.
