Ghana is set to introduce chip embedded passports from April 28, 2025, as part of new reforms being introduced by the Foreign Affairs ministry.
This milestone according to the Foreign Affairs minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa meets international standards making Ghana one of the countries to attain this feat.
The cutting-edge travel document boasts advanced security features, including nanotechnology and micro radio frequency identification (RFID) chips, making it virtually impossible to forge. The first chip embedded passport will officially be produced on 28th April 2025.
“Ghana’s journey with chip-embedded passports began in 2010. The biometric passports were introduced in that year but the aspect of microchip embedded with the holder’s biometric data, including fingerprint and facial recognition was left” the minister said when he announced the roll out date.
He said this “represents a major leap forward in our efforts to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure the integrity of Ghana’s travel documents. We have worked closely with international and local partners as well as experts to ensure that our passport meets the highest standards of security and authenticity.
“It aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, specifically ICAO Document 9303, which provides guidelines for implementing Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDS) and ePassports. This modernisation effort is designed to enhance border security, reduce identity fraud, and streamline international travel for Ghanaians.“
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said “the era of middlemen and unofficial agents operating within our passport offices is unequivocally over. We strongly advise all citizens to directly interact with our official channels and adhere to established procedures when applying for or renewing their passports. By doing so, citizens can avoid the pitfalls of intermediaries who often exploit and take advantage of unsuspecting applicants, demanding unnecessary fees and creating unnecessary delays.”
On the promise of having a 24-hour passport service, the minister said he was “pleased to inform you that a 24-hour passport service with door-to-door delivery will be commencing on the 28th of April 2025, to ensure greater convenience, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
“Applicants can now have their passports delivered securely to their doorstep. Applicants must provide accurate addresses and contact details to facilitate seamless delivery. In partnership with reputable courier providers,” the Ministry guarantees secure and reliable passport distribution both in Ghana and abroad. The Ministry remains committed to enhancing accessibility and efficiency in passport services for all citizens.
