Ghana is set to usher in a new era of passport security and convenience with the official launch of chip-embedded passports on April 28, 2025. This major upgrade, spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, is designed to align Ghana’s travel documents with international best practices while significantly enhancing security features.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, in announcing the initiative, described the move as a “historic milestone” that places Ghana among the ranks of countries with some of the world’s most advanced travel documents.
The new passports will feature cutting-edge technology, including micro radio frequency identification (RFID) chips and nanotechnology components, capable of securely storing biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition. These features, according to the Minister, will make the documents nearly impossible to counterfeit.
“Ghana’s passport modernization journey began in 2010 with the introduction of biometric passports,” Ablakwa stated. “However, the microchip integration, which holds biometric data, was not executed back then. Today, we are proud to complete that journey.”
The upgraded passports fully comply with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Document 9303 standards for Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDs) and electronic passports (ePassports), ensuring global recognition and smooth facilitation at international borders.
Beyond enhancing document integrity, the government is also rolling out a new 24-hour passport issuance service, with home delivery available to applicants. The fast-track service, scheduled to launch alongside the new passports on April 28, will operate in collaboration with trusted courier companies to ensure reliable and timely delivery across Ghana and abroad.
“This is about improving convenience and efficiency,” the Minister emphasized. “For the first time, Ghanaians will be able to receive their passports within 24 hours, right at their doorstep.”
Ablakwa also issued a firm warning against engaging unauthorized intermediaries or so-called “goro boys” during the passport application process. He urged citizens to make use of only official channels, stressing that the days of middlemen operating within passport offices are over.
“This government is serious about eliminating exploitation and corruption from the system. Anyone seeking a passport should avoid middlemen and stick to approved processes,” he cautioned.
The Ministry affirms that these new measures reflect its broader agenda to enhance service delivery, improve security, and protect the integrity of Ghana’s travel documentation system.
