Ghana is rolling out a new generation of passports and if you have a pending application, the clock just started ticking.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has given passport applicants 90 days to transition to the country’s new chip-embedded passport system.
This upgrade is more than just a fresh look it’s about security, convenience, and meeting international travel standards.
If you already have a biometric passport, don’t worry. It’s still valid until 2030, and you don’t need to rush to replace it.
But if your application is still in process, you’ll need to complete it under the new system.
So, what’s new? The updated passport includes a tiny chip that securely holds your biometric data like fingerprints and your photo making it much harder to fake or tamper with.
The Ministry says the new process is not only safer but also faster and more affordable. Standard applications will be ready in 15 working days, while an expedited option delivers in just five.
Even better? The application fee has been reduced from GH₵500 to GH₵350 subject to parliamentary approval and your new passport will be delivered straight to your doorstep via Ghana Post, at no extra cost.
To apply, just head to passport.mfa.gov.gh. The system now runs 24 hours a day, so you can apply anytime that suits you.
Because of the sensitive chip inside, new passport holders are advised to treat the document with extra care.
Don’t bend it, expose it to heat or water, or store it too close to other chip-enabled cards. A damaged chip could cause travel headaches down the line.
If you’ve been waiting on a passport, now’s the time to act. The new system brings Ghana in line with global standards and offers everyday travelers a faster, safer way to move across borders.
By: J.W Quarm
