The National Identification Authority (NIA) has denied reports that it unilaterally increased fees for Ghana Card registration and related services.

In a statement, the NIA said such reports are misleading and do not accurately reflect the applicable fee regime or the legal basis for the charges.

The Authority explained that the revised fees currently applicable to NIA services were approved by Parliament under the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512), pursuant to the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2022 (Act 1080).

It noted that the revised fees took effect on February 2, 2026 and were not introduced unilaterally by the NIA in 2026.

The NIA affirmed that it implemented a fee regime that went through the requisite statutory and parliamentary approval process, and it assured the public that its 276 district offices remain operational nationwide to provide Ghana Card registration and related services.

"At the NIA district offices, first-time registration remains free for persons below 25 years, while persons aged 25 years and above pay GH¢30 processing fee.

"Other applicable charges include GH¢200 for card replacement, while record update only remains free. The full approved schedule covers other services, including card renewal, nationality updates and related transactions.

"It is therefore important to distinguish between the approved fees for services at district offices and the fees applicable to NIA's Premium and Prestige service centre offerings," it said.

The NIA said its recent introduction of the NIA 24-hour Prestige Centre should not be misconstrued as the replacement or closure of the Authority's regular registration centres.

The Authority revealed that its Prestige Centre is an optional, fee-based, superior service introduced to provide greater convenience, flexibility and faster access to NIA services.

"The first Prestige Centre at Labone commenced operations on August 1, 2026 and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends.

"It complements the Authority's existing registration centres and provides an additional option for members of the public who may wish to access services in a more convenient setting.

"The introduction of the Prestige Centre therefore does not make the use of a Prestige Centre compulsory. Members of the public may continue to access applicable Ghana Card services through the regular NIA district offices.

"The premium and prestige options are intended for those who specifically desire the additional convenience and service experience it provides," the statement expressed.

The NIA recognised the public's legitimate interest in understanding fees charged for public services and welcomed constructive questions and scrutiny. It stated that public discussion on the matter should be based on the approved fee schedule and the Authority’s actual operations.

The NIA therefore appealed to media houses, commentators and members of the public to verify claims concerning NIA fees and services with the Authority or other authoritative sources before publishing or broadcasting them.

It added that accurate information is particularly important on matters relating to national identity, as misinformation can unnecessarily create confusion and concern among the public.

The Authority urged that, further information on Ghana Card registration, fees and related services, the public is encouraged to visit www.nia.gov.gh or contact the NIA Contact Centre on 0302 999 306, 0302 999 307 or 0302 999 309 to speak with an agent for assistance and clarification.

The NIA assured it will remain committed to transparency, accountability and accessible identity services and will continue to provide the public with accurate information on its fees, services and operations.