Labone Prestige Centre is optional, 276 district offices remain operational – NIA clarifies

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has clarified that the introduction of its new 24-hour Prestige Centre does not make premium registration compulsory for Ghanaians seeking Ghana Card services.

The Authority said its 276 district offices remain fully operational nationwide, allowing members of the public to continue accessing regular Ghana Card registration and related services.

In a statement, NIA said the Prestige Centre was introduced as an additional option for people seeking greater convenience, flexibility and faster access to its services.

“The 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, located at Labone, began operations on August 1, 2026, and operates around the clock, including weekends.

The NIA stressed that the facility does not replace its regular registration centres and that members of the public are not required to use it.

“The introduction of the Prestige Centre therefore does not make the use of a Prestige Centre compulsory.”

According to the Authority, the distinction is important because fees applicable at regular district offices are separate from charges for its premium and Prestige service offerings.

At the regular district offices, first-time Ghana Card registration remains free for persons below 25 years, while applicants aged 25 and above pay a GH¢30 processing fee. Card replacement attracts a GH¢200 charge, while record updates remain free.

The NIA also rejected claims that the revised fees were unilaterally introduced by the Authority.

It said the current fee regime was approved by Parliament under the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512), and took effect on February 2, 2026.

The Authority urged the public and media to rely on the approved fee schedule when discussing Ghana Card charges and to verify claims before publishing or broadcasting them.

It said accurate information was particularly important because misinformation about national identity services could create unnecessary confusion and concern among the public.