Togo has opened its borders to all Africans, scrapping visa requirements for nationals of every African country travelling for short visits. The West African nation announced the policy shift on Tuesday through its Ministry of Security on X, saying eligible travellers can now enter with only a valid national passport.
Under the new arrangement, African citizens will be granted visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days. The ministry stated that the reform is aimed at boosting movement, trade, and cooperation across the continent, marking a deliberate push to make Togo a hub for African integration.
“Togo is taking a historic step to strengthen African integration,” the statement read. “All nationals of African states holding a valid national passport may now enter Togolese territory without a visa, for a stay of up to 30 days. The President of the Council reaffirms his commitment to openness, mobility, and cooperation at the heart of Africa.”
The government emphasized that the visa waiver does not mean free entry. Travellers must still complete an online travel declaration on the official government portal at least 24 hours before arrival to obtain a travel slip. The requirement is designed to maintain security while easing mobility.
Togo’s move adds it to a growing list of African states easing cross-border entry to encourage tourism, business, and closer regional ties. Rwanda recently rolled out a similar visa-free policy, and Nigeria has responded by introducing a 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan nationals.
With the change, Togo joins the front line of countries testing freer movement as a tool for economic and diplomatic integration. Officials say the policy underlines a broader commitment to reducing barriers and deepening collaboration among African nations.
