Citizens Concerned Over Impact on Travel Plans and Finances.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has proposed substantial increases in passport application fees. These adjustments have left citizens grappling with the impact on their travel plans and personal finances.
The standard application fee for 32-page passports has skyrocketed from GH¢100 to an eye-watering GH¢500, representing a staggering 500% increase. For expedited services, the fee for the same 32-page passport has surged to GH¢640. Meanwhile, the fee for the 48-page passport has jumped from GH¢150 to GH¢644, with the expedited fee now standing at GH¢800. These changes have caught many Ghanaians off guard, sparking heated discussions online.
Foreign Affairs Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey defended the fee proposal in Parliament, emphasizing the need for more cost-effective printing of passport booklets. According to her, it is time for Ghanaians to pay realistic prices for their passports. However, critics argue that such steep increases may hinder accessibility for ordinary citizens.
Minister Botchwey also expressed frustration over the rampant corruption at the passport office in Accra. In an effort to clean up the system, she has decided to relieve all staff seconded to the office. Additionally, there will be an investigation into personnel conduct at the Accra passport office. The hope is that transparency and efficiency will prevail.
As Ghanaians adjust to the new fee structure, questions remain about affordability and fairness. While some believe the higher fees are necessary for improved services, others worry about the impact on everyday citizens. As the dust settles, citizens hope for a smoother passport application process—one that balances fiscal responsibility with accessibility.