The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a critical reminder to Ghanaian passport applicants who made payments before April 1, 2024, under the old fees of GH¢100.00 and GH¢150.00. These applicants must complete their biometric details by October 18, 2024, or risk having their applications invalidated.

Background

In April 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs introduced new passport fees, citing the need to review the old charges, which ranged from GH¢100 to GH¢644. The revised fees aim to reduce the financial burden on the government, which previously subsidized GH¢300 per passport.

The updated fees are as follows:

– Expedited 48-page passport: GH¢800
– Expedited 32-page passport: GH¢700
– Standard 32-page passport: GH¢500
– Standard 48-page passport: GH¢644

Applicants who fail to complete their biometric details by October 18, 2024, will have their applications rendered null and void. This means they will need to reapply for a passport, paying the new fees.

To avoid invalidation, applicants must:

1. Visit their designated Passport Application Centre (PAC) immediately.
2. Complete biometric details.
3. Finalize applications.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reassures the public that the new fees will enhance passport services and reduce processing times.

The fee increase has sparked mixed reactions from Ghanaians, with some expressing concerns about affordability. However, others acknowledge the need for sustainable passport production.

The October 18 deadline is fast approaching. Applicants who paid old fees must act swiftly to complete their biometric details and avoid application invalidation. The Ministry’s efforts to improve passport services and reduce subsidies are underway.