The Government of Ghana has officially begun the transition from biometric to chip-embedded passports, marking a significant upgrade in the country’s travel document security and compliance with global standards.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, in a statement dated April 30, 2025, announced that approximately 30,000 passport applications remain incomplete under the previous biometric system. Applicants have been given a 90-day window to finalize these submissions in order to be eligible for the new chip-based passport.
The directive follows the formal commencement of the chip passport rollout on April 28, 2025. The Ministry emphasised that the transition aims to modernize Ghana’s passport issuance system in alignment with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
Out of the outstanding applications, 7,900 are already paid for but remain incomplete. The Ministry assured those applicants that no additional fees would be required to complete their applications.
“To ensure a smooth transition, applicants with incomplete processes are to log onto the new passport portal and follow the detailed instructions to complete their submissions,” the statement said.
Read Also: Mandatory towing subscription, okada legalization included in new road safety reforms—NRSA Boss
Additionally, individuals with existing appointments have been urged to report to their designated Passport Application Centers (PACs) as scheduled. Those who missed appointments on April 28 and 29 due to the changeover are advised to visit their respective PACs at the earliest opportunity to resume processing.
The chip-embedded passport integrates a secure electronic microchip containing biometric and personal data, along with enhanced security features to guard against identity fraud and document forgery.
According to the Ministry, this initiative represents a broader commitment to enhancing document integrity, travel security, and global interoperability of Ghanaian passports.
The Ministry cautioned that any application left incomplete after the 90-day grace period will not be processed under the new system. Applicants have been encouraged to act promptly and utilize the digital tools made available to finalize their documentation.
