Losing your Ghana Card is a serious inconvenience, but replacing it is a straightforward process—provided you follow the right steps and have the necessary documents. Here is what you need to know.
The Key Requirement: A Police Report
Before you go to any NIA office, you must first report the loss, theft, or damage to the nearest Police Station and obtain a Police Report or Police Extract. This is the mandatory document for all replacement applications.
If your card is damaged, you must also bring the damaged card itself along with the police extract.
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How Much It Costs
The replacement fee depends on where you go.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Replacement (District Office) | GH¢200 |
| Premium Centre Replacement | GH¢520 |
For Ghanaians living abroad, the NIA has expanded online replacement services for residents in 11 countries—including the UK, US, Canada, and Germany—via the portal at register.nia.gov.gh.
Where to Go and the Process
You can process your replacement at any NIA District Office or an operational Prestige 24/7 Centre (located in Labone, Sakumono, Bantama, and Suame).
The process at the office is as follows:
Step 1: Review – A Registration Officer reviews your Police Report and damaged card, if applicable.
Step 2: Application – You complete and sign an electronic request form.
Step 3: Approval – An Approval Officer reviews and approves your request.
Step 4: Payment – You pay the fee via CalBank, the USSD code *771#, or the CalBank App. Cash is not accepted.
Step 5: Biometrics – Your fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph are captured again.
Step 6: Issuance – Your new Ghana Card is printed and issued to you on the spot.
A Note on the “Prestige Centre”
You may hear about a fee of GH¢720 for replacement. This is misleading.
The GH¢720 fee applies only to the optional Prestige Centre, which is a premium service. The standard replacement fee at any regular NIA District Office remains GH¢200.
You do not need to pay the higher fee unless you specifically choose the premium, expedited service.
Quick Facts
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Fee | GH¢200 (District Office) |
| Premium Fee | GH¢520 (Premium Centre) |
| Key Document | Original Police Report/Extract |
| Payment Method | CalBank, *771#, or CalBank App (No cash) |
| Processing | Instant issuance at District Offices |
| Diaspora Replacement | Available in 11 countries via register.nia.gov.gh |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the first thing I should do if I lose my Ghana Card?
Report the loss to the nearest Police Station and obtain a Police Report or Extract. This is mandatory for the replacement process.
2. How much does it cost to replace a Ghana Card?
The standard fee at an NIA District Office is GH¢200. The optional Premium Centre charges GH¢520.
3. Can I pay cash for my Ghana Card replacement?
No. The NIA does not accept cash. You must pay via CalBank, the USSD code *771#, or the CalBank App.
4. How long does it take to get a replacement Ghana Card?
At a regular District Office, the card is typically printed and issued to you instantly after payment and biometric capture.
5. Can I replace my Ghana Card if I live abroad?
Yes. The NIA has rolled out an online replacement service for Ghanaians in 11 countries, including the UK, US, and Canada, via register.nia.gov.gh.
6. Do I need to bring my old damaged card?
Yes, if your card is damaged or defaced, you must bring it along with your Police Extract.
7. What is the NIA Prestige Centre?
It is an optional, fee-based 24-hour service centre located in Labone, Sakumono, Bantama, and Suame. It offers faster, more convenient service for a higher fee. It does not replace the regular district offices.
8. Can someone else collect my replacement card for me?
No. The Ghana Card is issued to you in person after biometric verification. You must appear at the office to complete the process.
Source: Accra Street Journal
Last Updated on October 22, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
