By Eugene Nyarko Jnr., Accra, Aug. 19, 2026 — The National Identification Authority (NIA) has dismissed reports claiming it has recently introduced or unilaterally increased fees for Ghana Card registration and related services, describing the claims as misleading.
In a press release, the Authority explained that the current fees were approved by Parliament under the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512), pursuant to Act 1080, and have been in effect since February 2, 2026.
According to the NIA, it is merely implementing a legally approved fee regime rather than introducing new charges.
District offices remain operational
The Authority assured the public that all 276 district offices across the country remain fully operational and continue to provide Ghana Card registration and related services.
It stated that first-time registration remains free for persons below the age of 25, while applicants aged 25 years and above pay a GH¢30 processing fee. Card replacement costs GH¢200, while record updates remain free.
The NIA stressed that these approved fees apply at its regular district offices and should not be confused with charges for its premium service centres.
Prestige Centre is optional
The Authority also clarified that the recently launched 24-hour Prestige Centre is an optional service designed to provide greater convenience, faster processing and round-the-clock access to Ghana Card services.
It said the first Prestige Centre, located at Labone in Accra, began operations on August 1, 2026, and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends.
The NIA emphasized that the Prestige Centre does not replace existing registration centres, nor is its use compulsory, as members of the public remain free to access services through the regular district offices nationwide.
Call for accurate reporting
The Authority urged media organizations, commentators and the public to verify information on Ghana Card fees and services through official channels before publishing or broadcasting claims.
It noted that misinformation surrounding national identity services could create unnecessary public confusion and reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and accessible identity services.
For enquiries, the NIA advised the public to visit its official website or contact its customer service centre for clarification on fees and registration services.
