Minister of Foreign Affairs designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has adopted Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s policy proposal to use Ghana Card database as the primary source for passport applications to simplify passport application process.
The move, which is part of the government’s broader digital transformation agenda, is expected to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks and make the passport application process seamless and more accessible to all Ghanaians.
Over 70,000 uncollected passports
Mr. Ablakwa, speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, expressed concern over the delays and inefficiencies in the current system, citing a backlog of over 70,000 uncollected passports.
He pledged to implement a fully digital passport application system that would allow applicants to complete the process from the comfort of their homes.
The new digital passport application process
Under the proposed system, Ghana Card holders will no longer need to fill out lengthy application forms or visit passport offices for verification.
Instead, the process will be simplified and fully automated, leveraging the Ghana Card’s biometric database to validate applicants’ identities.
Online application using Ghana Card
Ghanaians seeking a passport will no longer be required to manually complete an application form.
Instead, they will enter their Ghana Card Personal Identification Number (PIN) on a designated online portal.
Digital platforms for payment
Applicants will pay their passport processing fees electronically using mobile money (MoMo) or other cashless transaction methods, eliminating the need to visit banks or passport offices for payments.
Eliminating in-person verification
Since the Ghana Card contains all necessary biometric details, including fingerprints, facial recognition, and personal information, there will be no need for additional verification at passport offices.
When the Passport office enters the Ghana Card PIN into NIA’s database, it will automatically pull biometric data of applicants from NIA’s database.
The system will instantly authenticate the applicant’s identity, significantly reducing processing times.
Transition to a chip-embedded passport system
The government’s move towards a chip-embedded passport system will further enhance security and efficiency.
The digitalized passport process will ensure that passports meet international standards, reducing identity fraud and document forgery.
Courier services for passport delivery
In a bid to eliminate long queues at passport offices, Mr. Ablakwa has proposed that passport collection centers be scrapped entirely.
Instead, applicants will have their passports delivered directly to their homes or offices via designated courier services using their digital address.
This will end the inconvenience of multiple visits to passport offices.
Eliminating bureaucratic delays
The Foreign Affairs Minister-designate stressed that Ghanaians deserve a faster and more efficient passport application process.
The current system, plagued by delays, missing documents, and inefficient service delivery, has frustrated many applicants.
By integrating the Ghana Card, applicants will no longer need to provide supporting documents such as birth certificates, proof of identity, or residence details, since Ghana Card database already contains all verified information.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, this digitization effort will also eliminate middlemen and unofficial charges often associated with passport acquisition.
Ensuring accessibility and security
Despite the advantages of the new system, concerns have been raised about accessibility for individuals in rural areas and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect personal data.
Experts have urged the government to ensure that all applicants, regardless of their location or technological literacy, can navigate the digital system with ease.
Additionally, public education campaigns will be necessary to inform citizens about the transition to a fully digital passport system and how to use their Ghana Card for seamless applications.
The future of Ghana’s passport system
The shift towards a fully digitalized passport system represents a milestone in Ghana’s public service digitalization drive.
If implemented successfully, the reform will reduce wait times, enhance security, and make passport applications a hassle-free process.
As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prepares to roll out these reforms, all eyes will be on the government’s ability to execute the plan efficiently and address any challenges that may arise.
For now, many Ghanaians are hopeful that acquiring a passport will soon be as easy as using a mobile phone.
By ELVIS DARKO, Accra
