Ghana has achieved a major milestone in public service delivery as all 16 regions now have fully operational Passport Application Centres. This development marks the completion of the government’s decentralisation agenda for passport services, significantly improving access for citizens nationwide.
The move ensures that Ghanaians no longer need to travel long distances to apply for or collect passports.
Commissioning of New Passport Centres
The Passport Application Centre in the Oti Region was officially commissioned on 29 December 2025. It is the first of the newly created regions to receive a fully functional passport office.
Additional centres are set to be commissioned in the coming weeks. Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. James Gyakye Quayson, will oversee the commissioning of centres in Ahafo, Bono East, and Western North. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, will commission the centres in the North East and Savannah regions.
Improved Access and Faster Processing
The expansion of passport services across all regions addresses a long-standing challenge for many citizens. In the past, applicants in some regions travelled over six hours to Accra to complete biometric registration or collect passports.
With the new centres in place, applicants now enjoy faster and more convenient services. The Oti Region centre, for example, offers:
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A 30 per cent reduction in processing time
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Electronic tracking of applications
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Courier delivery options
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Same-day expedited passport services
Under the new system, applicants can receive their passports within 15 days.
Strengthened Security Measures
Due to its location near international borders, the Oti Region centre has enhanced security protocols. These measures are designed to protect the integrity of Ghanaian passports and prevent fraud.
The government has emphasised that security remains a top priority as access to passport services expands nationwide.
Government Commitment to Inclusive Service Delivery
The nationwide rollout forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s National Reset Agenda. The initiative focuses on equitable access to public services and balanced national development.
According to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, the goal is to ensure that no region is left behind in access to essential government services. The expansion of passport centres reflects this commitment in action.
