Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has instructed passport office staff to prepare for round-the-clock operations, including morning, evening, and overnight shifts, as part of the government's plan to implement a 24-hour economy.

Speaking at the passport headquarters in Accra, he highlighted that a major objective of the reform is to ensure that applicants receive their passports within seven days of submission.

Ablakwa further disclosed plans to roll out biometric chip-enhanced passports and synchronize passport data with the National Identification Authority system to improve the verification process.

Reiterating his dedication to upgrading the Foreign Affairs Ministry, he announced a review of passport fees, proposing reductions for regular applicants while adjusting charges for expedited services.

“You have also heard about our big reforms that we want to carry out. We want the Passport Administration in our country to become a 24-hour operation,” he stated.

“This year [2025], you need to stand and get ready, prepare yourselves. We’re going to run three shifts. We want to cut down on the waiting time for passports.

“We believe that within a week, it should be possible to get a Ghanaian passport when you apply for it. The 24-hour economy intervention we’re making will address that,” he added.