Ghana Suspends Citizenship Applications for Historical Diasporans
- Feb 3
- 1 min read
Ghana has temporarily suspended the processing of citizenship applications for historical diasporans, the Ministry of the Interior and the Diaspora Affairs Office of the President announced in a joint statement on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
The suspension affects individuals of African descent in the diaspora seeking Ghanaian citizenship under existing diaspora-focused frameworks. Authorities described the decision as an administrative measure rather than a policy reversal.
According to the statement, the pause is intended to allow a comprehensive review of the application process. The review aims to streamline procedures, eliminate bottlenecks, and improve overall efficiency for applicants across different regions of the world.
Government officials emphasised that Ghana remains committed to strengthening ties with Africans in the diaspora. They noted that the review is designed to make future applications more accessible and user-friendly once the process resumes.
No timeline was provided for the lifting of the suspension. However, the government said revised guidelines and application timelines would be communicated through official channels after the review is concluded.
The announcement comes shortly after 524 members of the African diaspora were granted Ghanaian citizenship in January 2026, marking the largest single group approved under the Beyond Return programme since its launch.
Ghana’s citizenship framework is governed by the Constitution and the Citizenship Act of 2000, which permits dual nationality. For diasporans who do not qualify for citizenship, the Right of Abode remains an alternative, granting permanent residence and the right to live and work in Ghana.
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