A Ghanaian national was refused entry at O.R. Tambo International Airport in South Africa and required to return to Ghana, and later died, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed in a new travel advisory.
The Ministry cited the case among immigration compliance challenges involving Ghanaians seeking medical treatment in South Africa, reported to it by the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria.
According to the advisory, the individual was denied entry following complications arising from a previous overstay.
The Ministry noted that no causal link has been established between the entry refusal and the individual’s subsequent passing.
It said, however, that the incident highlights the potential consequences of non-compliance with South Africa’s immigration requirements.
The advisory, issued in Accra on October 6, 2026, urges Ghanaians travelling to South Africa for prolonged or recurring medical treatment to obtain the appropriate visa before departure.
The Ministry explained that Ghanaian ordinary passport holders currently enjoy visa-free entry into South Africa for up to 90 days.
However, it said the arrangement is intended for short-term visits and does not cover prolonged or recurring medical treatment, including procedures such as chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy.
Citing Section 17 of South Africa’s Immigration Act, 2002, the Ministry stated that foreign nationals requiring medical treatment exceeding three months must obtain a Medical Treatment Visa.
The regulations provide for the issuance of such visas for renewable six-month periods and, in specific circumstances, for up to 24 months.
The Ministry strongly advised prospective medical travellers to ensure their visa arrangements adequately cover the anticipated duration of treatment, in order to avoid unintended overstays, possible refusal of entry or disruption to ongoing medical care.
Ghanaians already in South Africa for medical treatment were urged to remain mindful of the validity of their immigration status and to take the necessary steps to regularise their stay where required.
They may also maintain contact with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for consular assistance.
The Ministry said that, through the High Commission, it will continue to engage the relevant South African authorities and monitor developments concerning the immigration requirements affecting Ghanaian medical travellers.
The Government of Ghana reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Ghanaians travelling to and residing abroad.