Passport officials will face sanctions if they fail to deliver chip-embedded passports within 15 days, announced the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. This measure is part of a comprehensive set of reforms introduced by the government to modernize Ghana’s passport issuance system.
Mr. Ablakwa disclosed the details on his Facebook page on Sunday, April 27, 2025, stating that the reforms aim to improve efficiency and accountability at passport offices nationwide. A key change is the introduction of chip-embedded passports that comply with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
These new passports will store biometric information, enhancing document security and making it more difficult to forge while allowing for easier electronic verification. ICAO has mandated that all member countries transition to chip-embedded passports by 2030.
Furthermore, Mr. Ablakwa announced that applicants would not incur additional charges for the courier delivery of their new passports. Ghana Post, with its extensive network of offices across the country, has been designated as the lead courier service provider. Applicants without home addresses will have the option to collect their passports at the nearest Ghana Post office.
In addition to the courier system, a 24-hour passport operations and delivery service will be launched, creating new job opportunities within the sector.
Despite these enhancements, passport application fees have been reduced. Mr. Ablakwa explained that the costs associated with the reforms are being funded through a public-private partnership, ensuring no additional financial burden on Ghanaian taxpayers.
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