The National Identification Authority (NIA) has declared the introduction of updated fees for registration and associated services, following the approval of the Fees and Charges by Parliament.
These new fees will come into effect on Monday, February 2, 2026.
As stated by the NIA, this fee adjustment aligns with the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2022 (Act 1080), which mandates public institutions to periodically reassess charges to reflect current economic and operational circumstances.
According to the statement, “The Ghana Card has developed into essential national infrastructure, and its long-term viability necessitates periodic, modest fee adjustments after an extended period of cost absorption, irrespective of fluctuations in exchange rates.”
The NIA further clarified that although exchange rate conditions have stabilized, operational expenses—including technology licensing, cybersecurity services, utilities, logistics, and personnel—remain elevated and largely irreversible. The previous fee review, which was approved in 2023, did not take into account these cumulative cost increases.
Under the new fee structure, first-time registration at NIA district offices will continue to be free for applicants under 25 years of age, while those aged 25 and above will incur a fee of GH¢30. The cost for card replacement and nationality updates will be GH¢200, while card renewal will require a fee of GH¢150. Record updates that do not involve card replacement will remain free of charge.
Premium services at NIA centers will vary from GH¢165 for record updates to GH¢520 for card replacement. For foreign nationals, fees will be charged in the cedi equivalent of US dollars, which includes USD 120 for first-time registration and nationality updates, and USD 78 for annual card renewal.
The complete list of revised fees and charges can be found on the NIA website at www.nia.gov.gh.
The NIA has assured the public that these adjustments will be implemented transparently and responsibly, with the goal of enhancing the national identity system to support governance, service delivery, financial inclusion, and national development.
