The Republic of Chad has announced plans to remove entry visa requirements for all African nationals, with the policy set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby said the decision is aimed at strengthening African unity and integration across the continent.

According to him, the move will help make the free movement of people and goods within Africa a practical reality, in line with broader continental development goals.

With this announcement, Chad becomes the eighth African country to adopt a blanket visa-free policy for citizens across the continent.

Other African nations that have implemented similar open-door policies include Benin Republic, The Gambia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Ghana, Kenya and Togo.

In May, Togo also announced that Africans holding valid passports would be allowed to travel to the country without visa requirements.

The policy shift by Chad is expected to boost regional cooperation, tourism, and economic activities among African nations.