The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced plans to transition from biometric passports to advanced chip-embedded passports, marking a significant step in Ghana’s digitization agenda.
Speaking at the launch event at the Accra International Conference Centre, Sector Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey highlighted the rationale behind the upgrade.
“While the current biometric passport has served us steadfastly for over a decade, the demands of a fast-paced technological evolution have necessitated this upgrade. As the gateway to Africa, Ghana must remain at the forefront of growth and development by implementing novel technological advancements in security documents, taking into account new international standards, threats, and growth prospects.”
The Minister described the introduction of the chip-embedded passport as a “major milestone,” emphasizing its role in enhancing security and facilitating ease of travel for Ghanaians.
The new passports will feature a microprocessor that securely stores the holder’s biometric and photo information, alongside cutting-edge security measures like anti-fraud indicators and latent and patent markers to ensure the highest level of security.
“By the introduction of the chip-embedded passport, Ghana is poised to be at the forefront of modern technology within the African sub-region, shortening the turnaround time for passport issuance, while making travel safer and more secure for all citizens,” the Minister added.
The project, initiated in 2016, will be executed through a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement with Biometric Travel Solutions Limited, a Ghanaian private firm. It aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) regulations and global interoperability standards for biometric identification.
Additionally, the Ministry has upgraded its passport application process to improve efficiency and effectiveness at Passport Application Centres (PACs) and Ghana’s Missions abroad. This includes the development of an integrated online passport application and delivery system, operational enhancements, and the provision of modern infrastructure to support PAC operations.
The modernization effort also seeks to curb exploitation and extortion of citizens, eliminating the activities of “Goro boys” and ensuring a seamless passport application experience for all.
