The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that Ghana will begin issuing chip-embedded passports on Monday, April 28, 2025. On December 2, 2024, Ghana launched this new passport, which features enhanced biometric capabilities to facilitate seamless travel.
The travel document includes a microprocessor that contains the holder’s biometric data and photo information. Additionally, it incorporates unique security features, such as anti-fraud measures with both latent and patent indicators, ensuring high-level security. This chip-embedded passport is an upgrade from the current biometric passport used by Ghanaians.
Design
The design of the new biometric passports features elements from our rich cultural heritage, including Adinkra symbols such as “Fawohodie” (Freedom and Independence) and “Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu” (Democracy and Cooperation).
Speaking in Accra on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs announced that the introduction of these biometric passports aims to enhance security, eliminate the influence of middlemen, and improve transparency in the passport application process. The Minister emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to providing a seamless, citizen-centric passport service that is accessible to all Ghanaians, while avoiding issues associated with third-party interference.
This new initiative is part of a broader set of reforms being implemented by the Ministry this year. These reforms include the introduction of 24-hour passport operations, passport delivery by courier, e-tracking services, and a 30 percent reduction in passport application fees.
The chip-embedded passports, already in use in several countries, store biometric information in a secure microchip, offering enhanced protection against identity theft and fraud. Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to digitisation and public service reform, describing the rollout as a key milestone in modernising Ghana’s passport system.
By: Pacome Emmanuel Damalie
