The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration is advocating for an increase in the fees for passport applications.
Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Kwaku Ampratwum Sarpong stated in a press briefing on Tuesday, November 28 that the government heavily subsidizes the cost of the travel document, which has hindered the passport office from investing in other areas of service delivery.
Currently, citizens pay an average of 8 for an ordinary passport, significantly lower than the average cost of 40 in Liberia. Ampratwum Sarpong revealed that discussions will soon commence with Parliament to seek fee adjustments, as the ministry cannot unilaterally increase passport fees without parliamentary support.
Additionally, the activities of middlemen have contributed to the challenges in acquiring a passport, with many agents charging exorbitant fees. The Deputy Foreign Minister noted that the Ministry has implemented interventions to curb these illegal charges.
READ ALSO: Ghana Declares Visa-On-Arrival From December 1 To January 14.
In a related announcement, the Foreign Affairs Ministry has declared a visa-free regime for all foreign nationals traveling into Ghana effective December 1, 2023. Ampratwum Sarpong explained in an interview with JoyNews' Blessed Sogah that the policy is in response to the "December In Ghana" program initiated by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The program aims to attract visitors interested in making Ghana a holiday destination during the Yuletide season. Under this new policy, any foreign national entering Ghana in December will be able to obtain their visa on arrival within an estimated time of 60 minutes.
READ ALSO: Ghana To Soon Have 5G Wireless Data Communication - NCA Boss
Ampratwum Sarpong encouraged individuals who wish to visit Ghana to take advantage of this opportunity, especially considering that December has become a month of significant activity in the country, with many compatriots living abroad returning to enjoy the Christmas festivities.
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