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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana has issued a warning to its citizens planning to seek medical treatment in South Africa for more than 90 days. A statement released on Wednesday, October 7, advised Ghanaian passport holders that visa-free entry into South Africa is limited to stays of up to 90 days. The Ministry clarified that this privilege is intended for short-term visits and does not apply to extended or recurring medical treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy.

This advisory comes following reports from the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria about difficulties with immigration compliance involving Ghanaian nationals seeking medical care in South Africa.

The Ministry cited an incident where a Ghanaian national was denied entry at O.R. Tambo International Airport due to a previous overstay, leading to their return to Ghana. Although no direct link was established between this refusal and the individual's death, the Ministry emphasized that the situation illustrates the risks of not adhering to South Africa's immigration regulations, especially for those requiring prolonged medical treatment.

According to the Ministry, Section 17 of South Africa's Immigration Act, 2002, mandates foreign nationals receiving medical treatment for over three months to obtain a Medical Treatment Visa. This visa can be renewed for periods of six months and, in specific cases, for stays of up to 24 months. The Ministry is urging Ghanaians considering long-term or recurring medical treatment in South Africa to obtain the necessary Medical Treatment Visa before their departure.

The Ministry also cautioned prospective medical travelers to ensure their immigration status adequately covers the duration of their treatment to prevent unintended overstays, which could result in entry refusal, immigration complications, or disruptions to ongoing medical care.

Additionally, Ghanaians already residing in South Africa for medical treatment are advised to regularly verify the validity of their immigration status and seek legal status if needed. The Ministry encouraged affected individuals to stay in contact with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for necessary consular support. The High Commission pledged to continue working with relevant South African authorities to address issues affecting Ghanaian medical travelers and adhere to evolving immigration requirements.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare and interests of Ghanaians traveling outside the country while urging citizens to comply with the immigration regulations of their destination nations.