Government gives institutions until Nov. 2, 2026 to stop photocopying Ghana Cards

The Government of Ghana has issued a directive requiring banks, telecommunications companies, hospitals, schools, and other institutions to cease requesting photocopies of Ghana Cards for identity verification purposes by November 2, 2026. This move is in line with the coming into force of the National Identity Register (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2523), which aims to promote the use of biometric authentication methods.

The Government of Ghana has given institutions until November 2, 2026, to stop photocopying Ghana Cards for identity verification purposes and adopt biometric authentication instead. This directive follows the coming into force of the National Identity Register (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2523), on June 9, 2026. The move aims to promote the use of more secure and efficient methods of verifying identities.

The National Identity Register (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2523), is a legislation aimed at improving the management of identity data in Ghana. One of its key provisions is the promotion of biometric authentication as a more secure method of identity verification compared to photocopying national identification documents like the Ghana Card.

The directive issued by the Government of Ghana has significant implications for institutions that have been relying on photocopies of Ghana Cards for identity verification purposes. They will need to invest in biometric authentication systems and train their staff to use these new methods. This move is expected to enhance security and reduce the risk of identity theft.

Practitioners should be aware of this development and advise their clients accordingly. The deadline for compliance is November 2, 2026, and institutions that fail to comply may face consequences under the relevant laws.