Ghana Mandates Biometric Verification for Ghana Card Transactions to Combat Fraud

Ghana's National Identification Authority (NIA) is making biometric verification mandatory for all transactions involving the Ghana Card. This move aims to significantly curb fraud, misuse, and misrepresentation associated with the national identification system. The directive comes into effect with the enforcement of the National Identification Authority (Register) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2523).

This new regulation amends the earlier 2012 regulations (L.I. 2111) and establishes biometric verification as the sole mandatory standard for confirming a person's identity. The previous practice of merely inspecting, photocopying, or scanning the Ghana Card will no longer be considered valid for verification purposes. This change is designed to enhance the credibility of the national identification system and protect the personal data of citizens and residents.

Minister of the Interior, Mr. Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, emphasized that the law is intended to bolster the integrity of the national identification system. He urged all Ghanaians to demand proper verification procedures when using their Ghana Cards for services at places like banks or health facilities. "You have a right to expect that your Ghana Card will not be casually photocopied, scanned or filed away by anyone you transact with," he stated, advising citizens to refuse requests for simple copying if biometric verification is not performed.

Furthermore, the Minister directed various institutions, including banks, telecommunication companies, insurance firms, hospitals, schools, and government agencies, to promptly integrate their systems with the National Identity Verification System platform. The NIA's Executive Secretary, Mr. Wisdom Kwaku Deku, confirmed that a taskforce will conduct compliance checks and investigate reported breaches to ensure the full enforcement of L.I. 2523 nationwide.

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You have a right to expect that your Ghana Card will not be casually photocopied, scanned or filed away by anyone you transact with. If any organisation asks to copy your Ghana Card instead of verifying it electronically, you are entitled to decline.