The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a GH¢2,000 fee for its one-day super‑expedited Ghanaian passport service, citing the demanding nature of the process and the need to support workers who operate around the clock to deliver passports within 24 hours.
Speaking on the matter, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzato Ablakwa explained that the same‑day passport option is strictly meant for applicants with genuine emergencies and who meet all required criteria.
According to the Minister, once an applicant qualifies and pays the special rate, the passport must be issued within 24 hours, placing significant pressure on staff who work continuously to meet the deadline.
Following extensive consultations and research, the ministry settled on GH¢2,000 as a fair charge for the super‑expedited service.
Minister Ablakwa, however, emphasized that applicants who do not face urgent situations are encouraged to use the regular passport processing option, which costs GH¢350 and takes about 15 days to complete.
“There is no compulsion for everyone to apply for the one‑day service,” He stated , adding that the standard processing system remains efficient and accessible.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of Ghanaian passports, warning that foreigners who attempt to acquire them illegally will be arrested and prosecuted.
The Minister disclosed that 379 foreigners have been apprehended over the past 10 months for attempting to obtain Ghanaian passports unlawfully. Several Ghana Cards confiscated from these individuals were displayed as evidence of the ongoing enforcement efforts.
According to the Ministry, although some foreigners believe possessing a Ghana Card and a birth certificate is enough to secure a passport, applicants are subjected to additional vetting procedures.
“There is an extra layer of screening by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” the Minister explained, noting that applicants are interviewed and thoroughly vetted to ensure only eligible Ghanaians are issued passports.
The Ministry says these measures are yielding results and are aimed at restoring public confidence in Ghana’s passport system.