The National Identification Authority (NIA) in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has extended the Ghana Card registration exercise for children aged 6 to 14 years to the North East and Upper East Regions. This move is part of the NIA's phased rollout of Ghana Card registration for children in the specified age group. The exercise commenced on October 5, 2026.
During the registration process, teams will visit both public and private schools from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to register eligible children. Children not enrolled in school may also register at designated schools or other approved registration centres in their communities. This approach aims to make the registration process more accessible and convenient for all eligible children.
To register, parents or guardians must provide the child's original birth certificate, valid Ghanaian passport, or Certificate of Acquired Citizenship. If these documents are not available, a parent, relative, or legal guardian may complete an Oath of Identity form. In cases where a child has no known relatives, two Social Welfare Officers may vouch for their identity.
The NIA encourages parents and guardians to provide the child's NHIS card or NHIS number, if available. Additionally, anyone presenting a child for registration must be a Ghanaian aged at least 18 years, of sound mind, and possess a valid Ghana Card. This ensures the integrity and authenticity of the registration process.
The NIA has cautioned children who participated in the 2024 pilot registration exercise but have not yet received their cards against registering again. Instead, they are required to visit the NIA District Office where they originally registered to complete the issuance process. This measure aims to prevent duplicate registrations and ensure that all eligible children receive their Ghana Cards.
The Authority urges parents, guardians, schools, and other stakeholders in the North East and Upper East Regions to support the exercise and ensure that all eligible children are given the opportunity to register for the Ghana Card. The NIA also warns that providing false information or facilitating the registration of a non-Ghanaian constitutes an offence punishable by law.
The nationwide exercise began in the Volta and Oti Regions in May 2026 before being extended to the Northern Region. The NIA's phased rollout strategy aims to ensure that all eligible children across Ghana are registered for the Ghana Card. By extending the registration to the North East and Upper East Regions, more children will have access to this essential identification document.
Key points
- The NIA extends Ghana Card registration for children aged 6-14 to North East and Upper East Regions.
- Registration teams will visit public and private schools and designated centres in communities.
- Parents or guardians must provide required documents, including birth certificates or passports.
