Ghana Rolls Out Chip Passports, Tackles Delays & 'Goro Boys'

ACCRA – Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is advancing a significant overhaul of its passport system, highlighted by the recent commencement of 24-hour operations at its Accra headquarters, as it continues the rollout of chip-embedded passports first launched in late 2024.

The introduction of the new e-passports, compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, aims to enhance security against sophisticated fraud and modernize service delivery, officials said.

Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, speaking earlier this week about the latest phase of reforms, stressed the need to tackle systemic inefficiencies. "The dynamic nature and the constant evolution of crimes perpetrated with traveling, security and identity require a more advanced approach," Ablakwa stated, emphasizing a "complete reset" of passport systems.

Reforms target long waiting times, the influence of unofficial intermediaries known as "goro boys," and a backlog of over 70,000 uncollected passports. To improve accessibility, the Passport Application Headquarters in Accra began 24-hour operations on Monday, April 28, 2025, supported by a dedicated 24-hour inquiry line (0302 275 4200).

The current service expansion builds on the official launch of the chip-embedded passport on December 2, 2024. At that event, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo described the new document as a "major leap forward" and "a symbol of the country’s resilient progress."

President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the passport's design, which incorporates Adinkra symbols like “Fawohodie” (Freedom) and “Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu” (Democracy), representing Ghana's values. "The launch of this passport is not just about technology, it is a celebration of our identity and our collective aspirations," he said at the time.

The chip-embedded passports feature enhanced security, including a microchip securely holding the holder's biometric data, making the document tamper-proof and aiding identity verification.

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration at the time of the 2024 launch, stated the upgrade demonstrated Ghana's "sincere dedication to efficiency, security, and adherence to international standards." She added that the enhanced features would help prevent identity theft and give holders confidence when crossing borders.

The ministry noted the initiative also fulfils Ghana's foreign policy objective of respecting international law and treaty obligations.

As part of the broader modernization effort, an enhanced online application system and upgraded infrastructure have been introduced across Passport Application Centers (PACs) nationwide and at Ghanaian missions abroad.

Existing biometric passports remain valid for travel until 2030, consistent with ICAO guidelines. However, all new applications and renewals are now issued with the chip-embedded version. Minister Ablakwa confirmed this week that renewals would receive the new e-passport without additional delivery charges.

"With its advanced security features... this passport will provide Ghanaians with a secured, reliable means of identification both domestically and internationally," Kwasi Asante, the Director of Passports, said recently.