Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has officially submitted proposals to Parliament to reduce the cost of the 32-page ordinary passport booklet from GH¢500 to GH¢350.
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This has been welcomed by many who felt the current fee was too high and unaffordable for many citizens.
Why the Passport Fee Was Considered Too High
The previous fee adjustment has generated widespread concern. Under the earlier structure, the fee for a standard 32-page passport was set at GH¢500, while prices for expedited service and larger booklets were even higher. Many citizens complained that these fees placed undue financial burden on ordinary people, especially those in rural areas, students, and low-income earners. A backlash erupted calling for review and relief.
In response to this public pressure, Minister Ablakwa, acting under instruction from the President, proposed reducing the standard cost of the 32-page ordinary passport. The proposed GH¢350 fee reflects a significant 30% reduction, offering a much more affordable option for many Ghanaians requiring travel documents.
Legislative Process and Parliamentary Approval
While the announcement has generated optimism, key stakeholders remind the public that Parliament must formally approve the change. The current proposal cannot take effect until the necessary amendments are made to the Fees and Charges Act, which governs how public fees are set and changed in Ghana.
This means that the Minister does not have unilateral authority to enforce the fee reduction immediately. Parliament is expected to consider the proposal when it resumes sitting. A date has been suggested for when the amendment will be presented to the House for debate and approval.
Until then, the current fee of GH¢500 remains in force, even though the government has made its intent to reduce it public.
Broader Passport Reforms Alongside Fee Reduction
The proposed fee cut is part of a broader passport reform programme announced by the Foreign Affairs Ministry. A number of complementary changes are underway, including:
- Introduction of chip-embedded passports, adding enhanced security through biometric data and secure identification features.
- 24-hour operations at passport application offices to reduce processing backlogs and make services more accessible.
- Improved passport delivery systems, possibly including courier or mounted service options, to reduce the time customers wait and travel inconveniences.
These reforms aim to modernize the passport system in Ghana and improve service efficiency, while ensuring international compliance with travel document standards.
Public Reaction and Expectations
Ghanaians across regions have reacted positively to the proposed fee reduction. For many, the GH¢150 saving will make passports less financially stressful. Some have expressed relief, especially families with multiple members needing travel documents for study, work, or migration. Others have urged that the reform process move quickly, hoping Parliament approves the change soon.
However, there are voices of caution. Some analysts warn that while reducing fees is necessary for accessibility, the government should ensure that the quality and security of passports are not compromised. There are also questions about how the government will manage revenue implications, given that passport fees contribute to public finances.
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- Parliamentary review: The amendment to reduce the fees must be tabled and passed in Parliament by the relevant committees and the House.
- Effective date: Once approved, the new fee of GH¢350 will replace the current fee of GH¢500 for the 32-page ordinary passport.
- Service readiness: All passport offices will need to adjust to the fee change, revise their administrative systems and display updated pricing.
- Public awareness: The ministry will likely launch information campaigns so applicants understand the new prices, the process, and the ongoing reforms.
The proposal to reduce the cost of a 32-page ordinary passport from GH¢500 to GH¢350 signals a significant step toward greater affordability and access for Ghanaian citizens. While the plan still needs Parliamentary approval, the announcement reflects government responsiveness to public concerns. Combined with broader reforms—like chip-embedded passports, better service delivery, and extended operational hours—this measure has potential to improve the travel documentation process nationwide.
