In a significant move to modernize its passport services, the Ghanaian government has officially launched a new chip-embedded passport.
The unveiling ceremony, held yesterday, marks the beginning of a new era in passport application and issuance.
The new passport boasts advanced security features, including over 100 overt and covert security elements, nanotechnology, and a micro Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip. These features make the passport virtually impossible to forge, ensuring greater security for citizens and the nation.
According to Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the introduction of the new passport is part of a broader reform effort aimed at eliminating long-standing challenges faced by Ghanaian applicants.
The reforms, dubbed “Reset,” will address issues such as frustrating waiting periods, unauthorized agents, and a significant backlog of uncollected passports.
The Minister announced that passports will now be delivered directly to applicants through a courier service led by Ghana Post and Troskit. This move is expected to enhance convenience and reduce the need for multiple visits to Passport Application Centres (PACs).
In a welcome development, Cabinet has approved a reduction in the passport application fee from GHS500 to GHS350. The new fee structure is expected to take effect once the Fees and Charges Act is approved by Parliament.
The old biometric passports will remain valid until 2030, and Ghanaians can switch to the new chip-embedded passports upon renewal.
The government has assured citizens that measures are being put in place to eliminate bottlenecks in the passport application process and decentralize passport services across the country.
The launch of the new passport is seen as a major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to modernize its passport services and enhance security.