The Republic of the Congo has announced that it will grant visa-free access to all African nationals starting from January 1, 2027. This makes it the latest country to join a growing continental movement toward open borders across Africa.
Announcement at AfDB Annual Meetings
The declaration was made by President Denis Sassou Nguesso during the African Development Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026 in Brazzaville, as African leaders gathered to mark Africa Day. "As from the first of January 2027, nationals of all African countries will have visa-free access and will no longer need a visa to come to Congo," Sassou Nguesso said.
Call for Regional Integration
The president urged African countries to move beyond what he described as "selfishness and nationalism" and accelerate regional integration through practical implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Following Togo's Lead
The Congo announcement comes seven days after Togo made a similar declaration. On May 18, the Togolese government announced that African citizens holding valid national passports would no longer require entry visas to visit the country.
Togo's policy applies to visits of up to 30 days, with travellers still expected to comply with existing security, immigration and public health procedures on arrival.
Other African Countries with Visa-Free Policies
Other African countries with similar policies include: Ghana, Benin Republic, Seychelles, The Gambia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Togo.
This progressive step by Congo and other nations marks a significant shift towards easier movement of people across the continent, which is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange under the AfCFTA framework.
