The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has extended the deadline for existing International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) to regularise their operations in Ghana, giving them until July 31, 2026, to complete the registration process.
The extension was announced in a notice issued by the central bank to IMTOs, banks, Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions (SDIs), and Payment Service Providers (PSPs).
According to the Bank of Ghana, the decision follows an earlier directive issued on January 20, 2026, which outlined the registration and operational requirements for International Money Transfer Operators operating in the country.
The central bank urged all existing IMTOs that have not yet completed the registration process to use the extended period to submit the required documentation and comply with the regulatory requirements before the new deadline.
BoG warned that any IMTO that fails to regularise its operations by July 31, 2026, will not be allowed to continue operating in Ghana. It further stated that partnerships and business arrangements between non-compliant IMTOs and banks, SDIs, or Payment Service Providers would automatically become invalid after the deadline.
In addition, the Bank cautioned that defaulting operators could face further regulatory sanctions and enforcement measures under applicable laws.
The directive is expected to affect both money transfer operators and financial institutions that facilitate remittance services in Ghana. International remittances remain a major source of foreign exchange and household income for many families, making effective regulation of the sector important for financial stability, consumer protection, and anti-money laundering efforts.
The latest move by the Bank of Ghana forms part of broader efforts to strengthen oversight of the remittance industry and ensure that all operators meet the required licensing, reporting, and operational standards.
The central bank also reminded banks, Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions, and Payment Service Providers to ensure full compliance with the directive and avoid maintaining business relationships with unregistered IMTOs after the deadline.
The notice was signed by the Secretary of the Bank of Ghana, Aimee Vyda Quashie.
IMTOs seeking clarification or technical support have been advised to contact the Head of the Payment Systems Department of the Bank of Ghana.
