Ghana Rolls Out Secure E-Trackable Passport Delivery Service Today

Apr 28, 2025 - 09:13

Accra, Ghana - 28 April, 2025 - Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced the launch of a new passport delivery service, allowing applicants to track their documents via courier across all 16 regions.

The initiative, according to him, aims to reduce frustration and increase efficiency in the passport acquisition process.

In a statement on his X account account (formerly Twitter), Ablakwa noted that the move comes as over 70,000 passports remain uncollected due to logistical challenges.

“There are currently over 70,000 uncollected passports. Frustration makes many passport applicants give up. Our convenient e-trackable delivery via courier across all 16 regions of Ghana, which commences tomorrow [Monday, April 28], will end this nightmare. We are here to serve you.”

He emphasized that the new service meets international standards, featuring advanced security features such as nanotechnology and micro RFID chips.

He also revealed that the new passports will feature embedded chips with biometric data, including fingerprints and facial recognition, enhancing border security and reducing identity fraud.

“Ghana’s journey with chip-embedded passports began in 2010. The biometric passports were introduced in that year but the aspect of microchip embedded with the holder’s biometric data, including fingerprint and facial recognition was left” the minister said when he announced the roll-out date.

''This represents a major leap forward in our efforts to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure the integrity of Ghana’s travel documents. We have worked closely with international and local partners as well as experts to ensure that our passport meets the highest standards of security and authenticity.

He added that this latest development is part of a broader effort to modernize Ghana's passport system, aligning with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

“It aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, specifically ICAO Document 9303, which provides guidelines for implementing Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDS) and ePassports. This modernisation effort is designed to enhance border security, reduce identity fraud, and streamline international travel for Ghanaians.“

According to him, starting today, applicants can expect secure and reliable delivery of their passports, eliminating the need for intermediaries and unofficial agents.

He added that the Ministry has partnered with reputable courier services to ensure seamless delivery, both domestically and internationally.

The Minister assured citizens that the era of middlemen and unofficial agents is over, and applicants are advised to interact directly with official channels to avoid unnecessary fees and delays. With the introduction of 24-hour passport services and door-to-door delivery, the Ministry aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency for all citizens.

''The era of middlemen and unofficial agents operating within our passport offices is unequivocally over. We strongly advise all citizens to directly interact with our official channels and adhere to established procedures when applying for or renewing their passports. By doing so, citizens can avoid the pitfalls of intermediaries who often exploit and take advantage of unsuspecting applicants, demanding unnecessary fees and creating unnecessary delays.”

“Pleased to inform you that a 24-hour passport service with door-to-door delivery will be commencing on the 28th of April 2025, to ensure greater convenience, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

“Applicants can now have their passports delivered securely to their doorstep. Applicants must provide accurate addresses and contact details to facilitate seamless delivery. In partnership with reputable courier providers,” the Ministry guarantees secure and reliable passport distribution both in Ghana and abroad. The Ministry remains committed to enhancing accessibility and efficiency in passport services for all citizens.