The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a special initiative to facilitate passport processing for Ghanaian Hajj pilgrims, offering an expedited service at a fixed fee of GH¢500.

Dedicated Passport Centre for Pilgrims
Speaking at the Hajj Village on March 4, 2025, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that a dedicated passport centre has been established to handle Hajj-related applications. The centre will operate from March 4 to March 13, 2025.

“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 emphasized that the initiative reflects President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to improving accessibility and efficiency in government services, especially for those preparing for the sacred journey to Mecca.

Affordable and Accessible Passport Processing
✔ Expedited passport applications will cost GH¢500, ensuring affordability.
✔ Regional kiosks will be set up to assist applicants outside Accra.

“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.

Positive Reception from the Muslim Community
The initiative has been widely praised by the Muslim community, with many commending the government for making Hajj travel preparations easier.

Meanwhile, President Mahama has confirmed that 5,000 Ghanaian Muslims will be transported to Mecca for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, which is expected to take place between June 4 and June 9, depending on the sighting of the moon.