Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announces new fees for mobile passport services

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that Parliament will soon deliberate on a new fee structure for the Mobile Passport Application Centre initiative. Speaking during a visit to the Ashanti Regional Passport Application Centre in Kumasi, the Minister explained that the proposal aims to institutionalise fees for services provided outside traditional passport offices, ensuring the sustainability and expansion of the mobile service across the country.

The proposed special fees for mobile services are expected to range between GH₵1,000 and GH₵3,000. These charges are intended to reflect the convenience of having biometric data captured at a location of the applicant’s choice, such as their home or office. According to the Minister, this initiative is particularly designed to support individuals who may face challenges visiting physical centres, including the elderly and busy professionals. The revenue generated from these premium services will be used to support the operations of Passport Application Centres (PACs) nationwide.

In addition to the service fee proposal, the Ministry has procured 20 new pickup vehicles to enhance the efficiency of passport delivery and staff mobility. Mr. Ablakwa noted that these vehicles would be distributed across all regions, with each regional centre receiving one vehicle, while the Greater Accra headquarters will be allocated an additional unit. This logistical boost is part of a broader effort to address the transport challenges that have previously slowed down service delivery and administrative operations within the passport office.

During his tour of the Ashanti Regional facility, the Minister also addressed the physical state of the office, noting that plans for a comprehensive renovation would be included in the 2027 national budget. This upgrade will cover improvements to furniture and general working conditions for staff. Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to request funding for additional mobile application kits in the next budget cycle to meet the rising demand for flexible passport services. These developments mark a significant step in the government's efforts to modernise and decentralise passport acquisition in Ghana.