There are currently over 70,000 uncollected passports. This has been attributed to frustration, which in turn makes many passport applicants give up along the process.
The convenient e-trackable delivery system via couriers across all 16 regions of Ghana, which commences on April 28, 2025, is expected to bring an end to this difficulty, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
He also announced the introduction of a new chip-embedded passport, featuring advanced security features to enhance document integrity and prevent forgery.
According to him, existing biometric passports will remain valid until 2030, allowing a gradual transition to the new system.
“Ghanaians can then apply for the new passport through an enhanced online system, with streamlined processes and modernised infrastructure at the Passport Application Centers nationwide and abroad”, Ablakwa stated.
The new passport will include features like microchips, nanotechnology, and polycarbonate data pages.
“Ghanaians living abroad are equally entitled to benefit from these passport reforms. They have not been left out. Our Embassies and High Commissions are ready to serve them,” he added.
He added that a 30% reduction in passport application fees has been proposed, pending parliamentary approval.
The reforms aim to improve service delivery, with 24-hour passport operations, electronic tracking, and home delivery services.
“The Passport Application Fee for ordinary chip-embedded passports has been reduced from GH¢500 to GH¢350 by Cabinet and will take effect as soon as Parliament approves the new Fees and Charges Act in a few weeks,” he indicated.
The switch to chip-embedded passports begins on Monday April 28, 2025.
“Ghana will no longer issue the old biometric passports from today,” he added.
In compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements, the old biometric passports remain valid until 2030.
Ablakwa explained that one can switch to the chip-embedded passports any time before 2030 whether the passport has expired or not.
“When you apply for passport renewal, you will be issued with the new chip-embedded passports,” he noted.
The new passport will allow applicants to track their application online from submission to delivery, with no additional fees for delivery.
He also indicated that applicants can expect to receive their passports within 15 working days for standard applications and 5 working days for expedited services, provided all required documentation is presented.
For those with address challenges, passports can be delivered to the nearest Ghana Post office.
The Ghana Immigration Service has also partnered with Ghana Post as the lead courier service provider to ensure convenient and reliable delivery.
“Passport officials will be sanctioned if they do not ensure your passport is delivered under 15 days,” Ablakwa stressed.
Applicants can submit their applications online through the official website, www.passport.mfa.gov.gh.
According to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the new passport contains a biographical data-page composed of layers of polymer compressed into a solid substrate that must not be bent or kept in the pocket, especially the back pockets. He added that it must be protected from heat and all forms of liquid.
He emphasised that under no circumstance should other cards with chip embedded in them be stored inside the passport as it may interfere with encoded information on the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) inside the passport.
Ablakwa advised the public not to attempt to split the biographical data page because it will permanently damage the passport.
He also urged the public to report any accidental damage to the issuing authority and not attempt to fix it.
