NIA launches nationwide crackdown on illegal Ghana Card photocopying

The National Identification Authority (NIA) is set to launch a nationwide enforcement operation through its Biometric Verification Taskforce beginning November 2, 2026. This initiative aims to halt the common practice of photocopying Ghana Cards and relying on simple visual inspections for identity verification. Under the new legal framework, these manual methods will be replaced by mandatory biometric checks to enhance national security and protect the integrity of the personal data of citizens and residents.

The enforcement action follows the implementation of the National Identity Register (Amendment) Regulations, 2026, also known as L.I. 2523. According to the NIA, failing to use the authorized biometric verification system is now a criminal offense. Corporations found non-compliant face significant financial penalties ranging from GH₵6,000 to GH₵24,000. Individuals are also subject to fines between GH₵600 and GH₵6,000 for violating the new identity verification protocols.

To ensure compliance, the NIA has mandated all institutions to adopt the official Identity Verification System Platform (IVSP). This platform provides a secure, real-time method for validating the identity of cardholders through biometric data rather than physical or digital copies. The NIA has urged all organizations, particularly those in the financial, telecommunications, and administrative sectors, to transition to the approved platform immediately to avoid legal repercussions when the taskforce begins its work.

By moving away from manual verification methods, the authority intends to close loopholes that have previously been exploited for identity fraud. The NIA emphasizes that the biometric system is critical to ensuring the Ghana Card serves its purpose as the primary, secure document for all public and private transactions. The Biometric Verification Taskforce will be monitoring institutions across the country to ensure the standards set by L.I. 2523 are strictly upheld.