Ghana Starting Distribution of Passports with Chip Inserts as of April 28th
In a significant stride towards modernizing its identification system, Ghana is set to transition to chip-embedded e-passports starting from April 28, 2025. This move aims to improve passport security, streamline border control processes, and comply with international standards for travel documents.
The new e-passports, first unveiled in December 2024, will feature microchips that store biometric and photographic data, making them harder to forge or tamper with. The chips also contain biometric information such as fingerprints and facial recognition data, which strengthens identity verification and reduces passport fraud.
One of the key benefits of this transition is improved security. The e-passport allows for quicker automated verification by border authorities, shortening queues and improving the traveler experience. Moreover, the e-passports align Ghana's travel documents with global standards set by bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), facilitating smoother international travel.
Convenience and efficiency are also major advantages of this transition. Early distribution efforts have already delivered around 30,000 chip-embedded passports, indicating a practical and efficient rollout to applicants nationwide. The reform package also includes 24-hour passport processing and electronic application tracking, further enhancing the convenience for applicants.
To make the transition more accessible, the application fees for passports will be reduced by 30% as part of the 2025 reform package. Additionally, the e-passports will replace the current biometric versions.
The design of the e-passports blends technology with Ghanaian culture, with Adinkra symbols like Fawohodie (freedom) and Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu (unity) showcased on the passports.
Mr. Ablakwa, in a statement, committed to a secure, seamless, and citizen-centered passport service, free from third-party interference. The Ghanaian government's commitment to this transition underscores its dedication to improving travel security and providing a more efficient identification system for its citizens.
The transition to chip-embedded e-passports is set to revolutionize Ghana’s passport system, enhancing passport security, expediting travel, and modernizing the country’s identification system starting April 30, 2025.
The new e-passports, set to revolutionize Ghana’s passport system, will not only feature enhanced security measures like biometric data storage and automated verification, but they will also leverage technology to facilitate smoother international travel and align with global standards such as those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Furthermore, to make the transition more affordable, the application fees for these e-passports will be reduced by 30%.
