Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the launch of a one-day expedited passport service, offering Ghanaians a faster way to obtain a passport for a fee of GHC 2,000.
The new service is designed to help applicants who need travel documents urgently and cannot wait for the standard processing period, which can take several weeks. Officials say the expedited option will be available at selected passport offices across the country.
Speaking at the rollout, a senior official from the ministry explained that the one-day service is part of ongoing efforts to modernise Ghana’s passport system and improve service delivery for citizens. The ministry emphasised that the standard passport application process will continue as usual, and applicants can choose the service that best suits their needs.
Under the new arrangement, applicants seeking same-day processing must meet specific requirements and pay the prescribed fee of GHC 2,000. Details about the documentation and application steps were outlined by ministry representatives, who urged travellers to plan well before international trips.
Officials said the fee reflects the additional resources and administrative arrangements needed to process and issue passports within 24 hours. They also assured the public that stringent verification procedures will still be observed to uphold the integrity of the passport system.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Some potential travellers welcomed the option, especially those facing last-minute travel plans for work, education, or emergencies. Others raised concerns about affordability and whether the new service might create a two-tier passport system.
In response, the ministry said the expedited service is optional and that the standard passport, which remains unaffected, continues to be issued at the regular processing fee and timeline.
The new policy comes as part of broader reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency of Ghana’s passport issuance framework. Government officials argue that simplifying and speeding up passport services can support economic activity, international business, and the movement of skilled labour.
As the one-day passport service becomes operational, the ministry has pledged to monitor implementation closely and make adjustments where necessary to ensure fairness, transparency, and accessibility for all Ghanaians.