The Passport Office in Ghana has reported a decrease in the number of passport applications since the price increase took effect on April 1, 2024.

Despite facing opposition from some passport applicants, agents, and stakeholders, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has defended the decision, stating that it aligns with the 2023 fees regulations, L.I.2481.

In an interview with Channel One News, the Director of the Passport Office Headquarters, Paul Cudjoe, acknowledged the slowdown in applications but expressed confidence that it would not significantly impact their operations as long as they fulfill their mandate.

Cudjoe explained, "Naturally, there will be a slowdown because for a long time, we had not increased the passport price and we needed to bridge the gap. It got to a point that if we had not increased the price, we couldn't even print passports, that's why the new fees were introduced."

Under the new fee structure, the standard fee for a 32-page passport booklet is now GH¢500.00, representing a 400% increase.

The cost of a 48-page passport booklet has also risen significantly to GH¢644.00, reflecting a 329% increase from the previous price of GH¢150.00.