BoG Extends IMTO Registration Deadline to July 31 — Non‑Compliant Operators Face Shutdown

The Bank of Ghana has extended the registration deadline for International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) to July 31, 2026, giving existing operators additional time to regularise their operations.

In a notice dated June 12, 2026, the central bank announced that the deadline—originally set in January—had been pushed back to allow operators to submit all outstanding documentation.

The initial directive, issued on January 20, 2026, outlined the regulatory requirements for IMTO registration and operations in Ghana.

Final Chance to Comply

The Bank of Ghana urged all existing IMTOs to take advantage of the extension, warning that those who fail to meet the requirements by the new deadline will not be permitted to operate in Ghana.

“For the avoidance of doubt, existing IMTOs that fail to comply with the registration requirements within the stipulated timeframe shall not be permitted to operate in Ghana,” the notice stated.

Severe Consequences for Defaulters

The central bank cautioned that any partnerships between non‑compliant IMTOs and banks, specialised deposit‑taking institutions or payment service providers will be rendered null and void.

“Such entities may be subject to further regulatory and enforcement actions as prescribed under applicable laws,” the notice added.

All regulated financial institutions have been directed to ensure strict adherence to the directive.

Why It Matters

IMTOs play a crucial role in Ghana’s remittance ecosystem, facilitating billions of dollars in annual inflows from Ghanaians abroad. Remittances remain a major source of household income and foreign exchange for the country.

The Bank of Ghana has been working to bring all operators under a unified regulatory framework to strengthen consumer protection, improve data reporting and combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

The extension signals a pragmatic approach by the central bank, acknowledging that some operators may require more time to meet compliance obligations.

No Further Extensions Expected

With the new deadline set for July 31, operators now have roughly six weeks to complete their registration. The Bank of Ghana has indicated that no further extensions will be granted, and non‑compliant operators will be shut down.

Banks and payment service providers have been instructed to verify that any IMTO they partner with is duly registered.

The notice was signed by Aimee Vyda Quashie, Secretary of the Bank of Ghana. Operators seeking clarification or technical assistance were directed to contact the Head of the Payment Systems Department via the official email provided.