Getting a Ghanaian passport for a child is a common requirement for families planning international travel, dual citizenship registration, relocation, or long-term residence abroad. The process is similar to an adult passport application but includes additional documentation and parental consent requirements.
This guide explains how to get a Ghanaian passport for a child, including eligibility rules, documents needed, parental consent, fees, timelines, and common mistakes that delay approval.
Table of Contents
Who Is Eligible for a Ghanaian Child Passport
A child is eligible for a Ghanaian passport if they are a Ghanaian citizen under Ghana’s citizenship laws. This includes children:
- Born in Ghana to at least one Ghanaian parent
- Born outside Ghana to at least one Ghanaian parent
- Adopted by a Ghanaian citizen
Citizenship eligibility is determined before a passport can be issued. If citizenship is unclear, additional verification may be required.
Ghanaian Citizenship Rules for Children
Under the Ghana Citizenship Act, a child is considered Ghanaian by birth if at least one parent or grandparent is Ghanaian, regardless of where the child was born.
Children born abroad to Ghanaian parents often qualify by descent. Proof of the parent’s Ghanaian citizenship is mandatory before a passport can be issued.
Documents Required for a Child Passport
Prepare the following original documents:
- Child’s birth certificate (issued by Ghana Births and Deaths Registry or foreign equivalent)
- Ghanaian passport or Ghana Card of at least one parent
- Parental consent letter signed by both parents
- Passport photos of the child
- Expired Ghanaian passport (if renewing)
- Application form and fee receipt
Foreign birth certificates must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
Step by Step Application Process
- Complete the child’s passport application online
- Pay the applicable passport fee
- Book an appointment at a Passport Application Center
- Attend the appointment with the child and parents
- Submit documents and complete biometric capture
- Collect the passport or receive it via courier
Children must appear in person for passport applications, even infants.
Parental Consent Requirements
Ghana requires written consent from both parents before issuing a passport to a minor.
If one parent is unavailable, one of the following must be provided:
- A notarized consent letter from the absent parent
- A court order granting sole custody
- Legal guardianship documentation
This requirement protects against child abduction and unauthorized travel.
Fees, Validity, and Processing Time
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport validity | 5 years |
| Standard fee | GHS 350 |
| Standard processing | Approx. 15 working days |
| Expedited service | Available at higher cost |
Processing times may vary depending on location and volume.
Applying for a Child Passport Abroad
Families living abroad must apply through a Ghanaian embassy or consulate such as the Ghana Embassy London or Ghana Embassy Washington DC.
Both the child and parents must attend the appointment unless documented consent exceptions apply. Processing abroad typically takes longer than applications submitted in Ghana.
Common Issues and Delays
- Missing parental consent
- Name discrepancies between documents
- Incomplete citizenship proof
- Failure of both parents to attend without proper documentation
Double check documents before your appointment to avoid repeat visits.
FAQs
Does a child need a Ghana Card?
Currently, children use birth certificates rather than Ghana Cards for passport issuance.
Can one parent apply alone?
Only with notarized consent or legal custody documentation.
Can a child hold dual citizenship?
Yes, if the other country permits it.
