The Government of Ghana has introduced an expedited passport processing service for Hajj pilgrims at a fixed cost of GH¢500, aimed at simplifying travel preparations for Muslims undertaking the sacred journey to Mecca.
Announcing the initiative at the Hajj Village on Tuesday, March 4, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa revealed that a dedicated passport centre has been set up exclusively for Hajj applicants. The facility will operate from March 4 to March 13, 2025, to ensure that all eligible pilgrims receive their passports without delays.
“We are not oblivious of the fact that for many, securing travel documents in a timely manner has been a major challenge. To address this, our ministry has set up this special passport centre, operational from March 4 to March 13, 2025, exclusively to serve Hajj applicants,” Ablakwa stated.
He further emphasized that the initiative aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to ensuring efficient and accessible government services for all citizens, including those embarking on religious pilgrimages.
To make the process more affordable, the cost of expedited passport processing has been maintained at GH¢500.
“In collaboration with the government, we are pleased to announce that the cost of expedited passport processing has maintained to usual ¢500 flat rate,” he stated.
To expand access beyond Accra, the Foreign Ministry is establishing dedicated kiosks at regional passport offices to assist applicants nationwide.
“To extend this service to as many people as possible, we are also setting up dedicated kiosks at various regional passport application centres, ensuring that applicants outside Accra can also benefit from this initiative,” Ablakwa added.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from the Muslim community, with many lauding the government’s efforts to ease the pilgrimage process.
Meanwhile, President Mahama has confirmed that arrangements have been made to transport 5,000 Ghanaian Muslims to Mecca this year. The 2025 Hajj pilgrimage is expected to take place between June 4 and June 9, depending on the sighting of the moon.
