For security reasons, the issuance of "express mode" visas upon arrival in Togo has been suspended. However, alternative solutions are planned for "rushed" travelers.
The decision to suspend the "express mode" visas was made by the Minister of Security and Civil Protection, Calixte Madjoulba. By ending the urgent visa application procedure introduced in 2022 by the General Directorate of National Documentation (DGDN), Calixte Madjoulba also announced new measures. "All travelers requiring an entry visa to Togo must make all necessary arrangements to apply for their visa at least 7 days before the planned travel date, and ensure they have received a visa confirmation code electronically before their departure," stated the minister, as reported by Togo First.
The express visa mode was initially established to facilitate the processing of applications made within 7 days before the traveler's arrival date. The recent change occurs in a context of reevaluating security procedures at Togo's borders. According to official sources, the main objective of suspending the express visa is to strengthen security checks for all visitors entering the country. The Togolese administration has identified flaws in the previous system that could potentially be exploited by individuals looking to enter the country with malicious intent.
The removal of the express option is part of a series of reforms aimed at improving surveillance and managing the flow of people across borders. Minister Madjoulba emphasized that this decision was necessary to allow authorities to better verify the information provided in visa applications, which is less feasible with the expedited processing of express visas. Consequently, the minimum seven-day waiting period for visa applications is intended to provide enough time for a thorough review of applicants' files.
Furthermore, this new policy also aims to standardize visa procedures in Togo by aligning practices with international security standards. By extending the visa application process, Togo hopes to reduce the risks of fraud and illegal entries, thus ensuring better protection of its borders.
These changes have generally been well-received by security experts, who believe that these measures could significantly reduce the chances of security incidents related to irregular immigration. However, some sectors related to tourism and business express concerns about the potential impacts on visitors who need quick procedures for last-minute travel.
To address these concerns, the Togolese government is considering implementing a faster pre-approval system for certain categories of travelers, such as businesspeople or medical emergencies, who might justify a need for rapid entry into the country. Additionally, efforts are underway to enhance the overall efficiency of the visa application process by introducing more advanced technologies and further training the staff on the new procedures.