Togo has reached a historic milestone in regional integration. The government has announced the immediate cancellation of entry visas for all citizens of the African continent. The only requirement is a valid national passport.

With this strong decision, Lomé joins the very exclusive circle of African capitals that have opted for a policy of total border openness.

A pan-African vision and clear modalities

In an official statement published in Lomé, the Minister of Security and Civil Protection, Colonel Calixte Batossie Madjoulba, recalled that this reform reflects:

"The unwavering commitment of the highest Togolese authorities to promote African integration, strengthen the free movement of people and goods, and foster increased cooperation between the states and peoples of the continent."

Key takeaways from the new system:

1. Length of stay: The exemption applies to trips of less than 30 days .
2. Mandatory procedure: Travellers must register at least 24 hours before their departure on the official website voyage.gouv.tg in order to obtain a travel slip which is essential for boarding.
3. Security: The usual health, migration and security controls remain fully in force at the borders.

A continental momentum that is slowly accelerating

By taking this step, Togo is following in the footsteps of a few pioneers of free movement in Africa:

1. Benin (since 2019);
2. Rwanda (since 2023);
3. Gambia and Seychelles ;
4. Ghana , which has planned a similar measure.

Despite these local initiatives, there is still a long way to go globally. According to the latest Africa Visa Openness Index report from the African Development Bank (AfDB), only 28.2% of intra-African journeys were visa-free by the end of 2025.

Objective: to become the hub of West Africa

Beyond the political symbolism, Lomé is playing a strategic economic card. By facilitating access to its territory, the country hopes to boost its tourist appeal and definitively establish itself as the essential hub for business, services and cultural exchange in West Africa.