Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your Ghana Card (National ID) — one of the most important documents for identity, SIM registration, banking, voting, and accessing services in Ghana 🇬🇭.
🆔 What is the Ghana Card?
The Ghana Card is a biometric national identity card issued by the National Identification Authority (NIA) to all Ghanaian citizens (home and abroad) and legally resident foreigners.
✅ Who Needs It?
•All Ghanaian citizens (15 years and above)
•Children aged 0–14 years (issued a child ID)
•Foreigners with legal residence permits
📍 Where to Register
•NIA District Offices (available in every district)
•NIA Premium Centres (for faster service, but with a fee)
•Mobile Registration Centres (temporary setups in communities)
📄 Documents You’ll Need
For Ghanaian Citizens:
•Birth Certificate OR
•Valid Ghanaian Passport OR
•Old Voter’s ID Card
•If you don’t have any of the above:
•Ghana Post GPS address
•A relative or guarantor (registered Ghana Card holder) to vouch for you
Optional But Helpful:
•SSNIT Number (if you have one)
•Digital address from GhanaPostGPS
•Mobile number and email (for alerts)
📝 Registration Steps
🔹 Step 1: Visit a Registration Centre
•Go early to avoid long queues
•Ask for the Ghana Card application form (may be digital or physical)
🔹 Step 2: Present Your Documents
•Show your proof of citizenship (birth cert, passport, or Voter ID)
•Or bring a guarantor who already has a Ghana Card
🔹 Step 3: Biometric Capture
•Your fingerprints, photo, and digital signature will be taken
•Confirm that your personal details are correct
🔹 Step 4: Receive a Printed Slip
•This is a temporary ID until your card is ready
•Keep it safe — you’ll need it to collect your card
🔹 Step 5: Pick Up Your Ghana Card
•You’ll be notified by SMS or call when it’s ready
•Go back with your printed slip to collect the card
💰 Is It Free?
•Standard registration: FREE
•Premium service: Costs about GHS 250+ (used mainly by businesses or for faster service)
🔄 If You Lost Your Card?
•Visit the NIA office to report and apply for a replacement
•Replacement fee: GHS 30–50
🖥️ Bonus: Check If Your Ghana Card Is Ready
•Use the shortcode: *127*1515#
•You’ll see your card status and details (must be done on the registered number)