Accra: The Government of Ghana is set to introduce a new chip-embedded passport starting April 28, 2025, as part of a comprehensive initiative for passport reforms in the country. This move signifies a significant advancement in Ghana’s efforts to enhance the security and integrity of its travel documents.
According to Ghana News Agency, the new passport incorporates advanced security features, such as nanotechnology and micro radio frequency identification (RFID) chips, establishing a new standard for document security. Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced this development during a press conference in Accra, detailing the rollout of the chip-embedded passport and the broader passport reform policies.
The chip-embedded passport features over 100 overt and covert security measures, rendering it virtually forgery-proof. It complies with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, particularly ICAO document 9303, which outlines the guidelines for implementing Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDS) and e-Passports.
Mr. Ablakwa detailed that Ghana’s journey with the chip-embedded passport began in 2010 with the introduction of the biometric passport. However, the integration of a microchip containing biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, was initially excluded. Although plans to incorporate a chip were revisited in 2016, they were not realized at that time.
In 2018, a committee was established by the previous government to ensure the implementation of the chip-embedded passport. After extensive collaboration with private partners, the initiative was launched on December 2, 2024, but its rollout was postponed. Upon taking office, the new Mahama Administration conducted a comprehensive review to align the project with the country’s vision for passport reforms.
The minister emphasized the use of state-of-the-art multi-layer compressed polymer (polycarbonate) as the base substrate for the biographical data page, ensuring the booklet’s integrity against conventional document crimes. He highlighted Ghana’s commitment to adhering to international standards and best practices in document security, developed through collaboration with international and local partners and experts.
This modernization effort aims to enhance border security, reduce identity fraud, and streamline international travel for Ghanaians. The new passport system is also designed to eliminate the influence of middlemen and unofficial agents within the country’s passport offices. The minister urged citizens to engage directly with official channels and follow established procedures when applying for or renewing passports to avoid exploitation and unnecessary fees from intermediaries.