Chad to Scrap Visa Requirements for All African Citizens From January 2027

Chad has announced plans to abolish entry visa requirements for all African citizens beginning January 1, 2027, in a move aimed at promoting free movement and strengthening regional integration.

President Mahamat Idriss Déby announced the policy, describing it as an important step towards African unity and making the movement of people and goods across the continent easier.

«“The Chad of Toumaï, cradle of humanity, opens its borders and abolishes entry visas for all Africans,” Déby said.»

The landlocked Central African nation shares borders with six countries, giving it a strategic position linking North, West, Central and East Africa.

Political analyst Évariste Ngarlem said the decision could have a significant impact on tourism and business. He noted that removing visa restrictions would allow travellers to plan visits more easily without lengthy application procedures or administrative delays.

According to Ngarlem, the policy could lead to a rapid increase in tourist and business arrivals while also serving as a form of “soft diplomacy” that may encourage other African countries to adopt similar measures.

With the announcement, Chad is expected to become the eighth African country to allow visa-free entry to citizens of all African nations, joining countries such as Rwanda and Kenya.

The policy is also consistent with the objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), both of which seek to promote greater integration, trade and movement across the continent.

The move comes amid growing efforts by African governments to reduce barriers to intra-African travel and strengthen economic cooperation among countries.

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