Ghana Transitions to Chip-Embedded Passports; Ministry Addresses Pending Applications

Accra, April 30, 2025 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially announced the completion of Ghana’s transition from biometric passports to the new chip-embedded passport system, which took effect on April 28, 2025. The Ministry is urging the public, particularly those with pending passport applications, to take immediate action to ensure a smooth continuation of services.

According to the Ministry, approximately 30,000 applications under the old biometric system remain unresolved. Notably, 7,900 of these applicants had paid but failed to complete their applications. The Ministry has assured such applicants that they will not be required to pay again to complete the process.

Applicants with incomplete applications are directed to the new passport platform at passport.mfa.gov.gh, where they can follow the necessary prompts to finalize their submissions.

The Ministry outlined the following key directives for affected applicants:

1. Individuals who began their application on the old system are required to complete the process within 90 days.
2. Applicants who already secured appointments under the old system should report to their respective Passport Application Centres for biometric data capture on their scheduled day.
3. Those who missed their appointments on April 28 or 29, 2025, are advised to visit the appropriate centres for further processing of their applications.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring a seamless transition and encouraged the public to call the 24-hour support line at 0302-754-200 for any clarification.

This announcement has been circulated to all media houses to ensure widespread public awareness.