Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the closure of its premium passport application centres in Accra and Kumasi, effective 20 February 2026, as part of a nationwide initiative to streamline passport services, modernise digital systems, and enhance security protocols.
The premium centres, which previously provided expedited passport processing for applicants willing to pay additional fees, allowed diplomats, business travellers, tourists, and students to obtain travel documents quickly. Their closure now requires applicants to use regional passport offices, raising concerns about longer processing times, particularly for urgent travel during peak periods.
As reported by Business Insider Africa, officials emphasised that the closures are temporary and form part of a broader strategy to integrate premium services into existing regional offices, improve operational efficiency, and provide a more consistent and reliable passport service across the country. Applicants are urged to plan and submit their passport requests well in advance to avoid delays.
Travel agents, tour operators, and frequent travellers have voiced concerns that the absence of premium centres could impact last-minute travel, holiday plans, and international business trips, highlighting the importance of timely passport processing.
The ministry advises affected applicants to contact the Passport Office Client Service Unit for guidance on processing through regional offices.
In addition to improving service efficiency, the government is taking the opportunity to upgrade security protocols, modernise application procedures, and strengthen digital infrastructure. While standard passport services will continue, travellers should anticipate potential delays and allow extra time for processing, particularly during high-demand periods.
“This transition ensures a more secure, efficient, and consistent passport service for all Ghanaians and international travellers,” the ministry said, noting that the measures are aimed at enhancing overall service quality and safeguarding sensitive travel documents.
For tourists and business travellers, the key takeaway is clear: plan early, monitor official updates, and allow sufficient processing time to avoid last-minute travel complications.
