The Ghana Card is Ghana’s official national biometric identification card. It is now one of the most important documents in the country and is required for passports, banking, mobile money, tax filing, SIM registration, and most government services.
This guide explains what the Ghana Card is, who qualifies, how to apply inside Ghana or abroad, required documents, fees, and common mistakes that delay issuance.
Table of Contents
What Is the Ghana Card
The Ghana Card is the national ID card issued by the National Identification Authority. It contains biometric data including fingerprints and facial recognition and assigns a unique personal identification number to each holder.
The card serves as proof of identity and citizenship or legal residency and is now the primary identity document recognized by the Government of Ghana.
Why the Ghana Card Is Required
The Ghana Card is mandatory for:
- Applying for or renewing a Ghanaian passport
- Opening bank and mobile money accounts
- SIM card registration
- Tax identification and GRA services
- Voter registration verification
- Government benefits and social services
Without a Ghana Card, many essential services are inaccessible. Passport renewal applications are routinely rejected if the Ghana Card number is missing or mismatched.
Who Is Eligible for a Ghana Card
You are eligible to apply if you are:
- A Ghanaian citizen by birth
- A Ghanaian citizen by descent
- A Ghanaian citizen by registration or naturalization
- A foreign national legally resident in Ghana under the foreigner registration program
Children from birth are eligible. Parents or legal guardians apply on their behalf.
Documents Required for Ghana Card Registration
You must present one primary identity document:
- Ghanaian passport (current or expired)
- Birth certificate issued by Ghana Births and Deaths Registry
- Certificate of citizenship or naturalization
If none are available, an Oath of Identity may be completed using two registered Ghana Card holders as guarantors.
Supporting documents such as voter ID, SSNIT card, or driver’s license may help but do not replace primary documents.
How to Get a Ghana Card in Ghana
- Book an appointment on the NIA registration portal
- Visit an NIA district, regional, or premium registration center
- Submit documents for verification
- Complete biometric capture (photo and fingerprints)
- Confirm personal details before submission
Standard centers issue cards later, while premium centers may issue same day.
How to Get a Ghana Card Abroad
Ghanaians living abroad apply through Ghanaian embassies or consulates that host NIA registration exercises.
The process includes:
- Online registration on the NIA portal
- Payment of diaspora registration fees
- In person biometric capture at the mission
- Card collection or courier delivery
Processing abroad takes longer due to card production in Ghana.
Ghana Card Fees and Processing Time
| Registration Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| First registration under 25 (Ghana) | Free |
| First registration 25 and over (Ghana) | GHS 30 |
| Premium center registration | GHS 410 |
| ECOWAS diaspora registration | Approx. USD 55 |
| Outside Africa diaspora registration | Approx. USD 115 |
Fees are subject to official updates by the National Identification Authority.
Common Issues and Delays
- Name differences between birth certificate and passport
- Missing primary documents
- Incorrect date of birth records
- Failure to verify details before submission
Errors on the Ghana Card can block passport issuance and banking services, so review details carefully.
FAQs
Is the Ghana Card mandatory for passport renewal?
Yes. The Ghana Card is required for adult passport applications.
Do children need a Ghana Card?
Yes. Children can be registered through a parent or guardian.
Can foreigners get a Ghana Card?
Yes, under the foreign national registration scheme.
