Omanghana
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has officially confirmed the closure of the Premium Passport Application Centres in Accra and Kumasi, effective February 20, 2026.
The announcement was made in a press statement issued on February 23, 2026, as part of broader reforms aimed at streamlining passport services and upgrading digital systems across the country.
What Applicants Need to Know
Following the shutdown of the premium centres, the ministry has issued several directives to ensure continuity of service and minimize disruption:
Redirection of Applications
All passport applicants—particularly those with pending applications at the now-closed premium centres—have been directed to continue processing their documents at designated Regional Passport Application Centres nationwide.
Customer Support and Assistance
Applicants requiring clarification or support during the transition are encouraged to contact the Passport Office Client Service Unit on 0302-754-200 for official guidance.
No Cancellation of Existing Applications
The ministry emphasized that applications already submitted have not been cancelled. Instead, files are being redirected within the system to ensure processing continues at regional offices.
Why the Premium Centres Were Closed
According to the ministry, the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to:
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Streamline passport service delivery
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Eliminate duplication across processing centres
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Upgrade nationwide digital passport systems
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Maintain consistent service standards across regions
Officials say the long-term objective is to create a more efficient, transparent, and accessible passport application system, regardless of location.
Applicants have been advised to rely only on official government communication channels for accurate information. Updates will be published on the Ministry’s website and via the Ghana Government Portal.
The ministry also cautioned the public against middlemen or unauthorized agents claiming to offer premium or expedited services outside approved centres.
While the closure has sparked questions among frequent travelers and applicants who previously relied on premium services, officials insist the reforms will ultimately lead to faster processing times and improved accountability once the digital upgrades are fully implemented.
For now, passport applicants are urged to plan, confirm the nearest regional office, and allow sufficient processing time as the system adjusts to the new structure.
Source: Omanghana
