The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has cautioned the general public against dealing with unauthorised individuals and agents in relation to consular and other ministry-related services.

In a press release issued Monday, August 18, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its services and warned that the use of forged or fraudulent documents constitutes a criminal offence.

Such cases, it said, would be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities for prosecution.

Avoid Unverified Sources and Fraudulent Intermediaries

The Ministry urged the public to rely solely on official communication channels for updates and service procedures. These include the Ministry’s website, verified social media platforms, and accredited print and electronic media outlets.

“All individuals seeking consular or related services must deal directly with designated officers at the Ministry’s headquarters or through Ghana’s accredited Missions abroad,” the statement read. “Any suspicious activity or suspected fraud should be reported immediately.”

In a bid to curb fraud, the Ministry emphasised that no payments should be made to unauthorised individuals under any circumstance.

All official payments are to be made in cash only, and exclusively to officials from the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department at the Ministry’s premises. Official receipts must be presented for processing.

Official Fees and Procedures for Consular Services

The Ministry also released an updated breakdown of approved fees and procedures for common consular services:

Document Legalisation and Attestation Procedure:

1. Submit original documents verified by the Judicial Service of Ghana, with valid ID.
2. Pay GH¢200 at the Ministry’s designated payment point.
3. Submit payment receipt along with documents for processing.

Travel Certificate Procedure:

1. Submit the following to the Consular and Humanitarian Affairs Bureau:
   • Bio-data page of valid or expired passport
   • Two recent passport photographs
   • Flight itinerary
   • Signed application letter stating purpose of travel
2. Confirm with airline if Travel Certificates are accepted for boarding.
3. Pay GH¢200 in cash and submit receipt with documents for processing.

Laissez-Passer Procedure:

1. Submit:
   • Application letter
   • Parental consent letter
   • Vehicle registration number
   • Applicant’s and driver’s Ghana Card or passport bio-data pages
2. Pay GH¢200 and present receipt with documents for processing.

The Ministry encouraged all Ghanaians at home and abroad to remain vigilant and follow the correct procedures to prevent fraud.

For further enquiries, the public is advised to contact the Consular and Humanitarian Affairs Bureau via Tel: +233 204 552 750 or Email: consular@mfa.gov.gh.

The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to efficient, transparent, and client-friendly service delivery and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on fraud.