🕒 Last updated: December 17, 2025
As a foreigner planning to stay in Ghana, you will need a legal form of identification that will allow you to access certain services in the country. Therefore, getting a Non-Citizen Ghana Card is non-negotiable. It’s worth noting that the Foreigner Identification Management System (FIMS) manages the entire process, which is carefully designed to provide secure, biometric, and ICAO-compliant smart identity cards. In this article, we will give a breakdown of who needs this ID and how much you need to pay before getting your Ghana card as a foreigner.Â
Who needs the non-citizen Ghana card?Â
Not all travellers need the Ghana card; it’s mainly for foreigners who legally and permanently reside in Ghana. Non-citizens who are cumulatively present in the country for 90 days or more in a calendar year also need it. The Ghana card is a mandatory requirement for many transactions, such as opening bank accounts and applying for residence or work permits. In other words, it is essential for making your stay in Ghana easier and more comfortable.Â
What is the Ghana card fee structure like?Â
Fortunately, the FIMS has made the fee structure more straightforward and aligned with international practices. With that being said, here is the breakdown of what you’re expected to pay:Â
- First issuance: when registering for the first time, you will pay a fee that is the cedi equivalent of USD 120.00. You should note that this payment covers the entire registration process, including biometric data capture and issuance of the card.
- Annual renewal: Since the Ghana card is valid for a year, you’ll need to renew it after the time is up; this ensures that the information on the card remains current and that the card’s security features are updated. During this process, you will be required to pay the cedi equivalent of USD 60.00.Â
- Card replacement: You’ll need to apply for card replacement if yours is stolen, lost, or damaged. You are required to pay the cedi equivalent of USD 60.00 to kick-start the process.Â
How to secure your Ghana card
The following steps are necessary for obtaining your non-citizen Ghana card:Â
Make sure you’re eligible
As mentioned earlier, not all foreigners need a Ghana card, so make sure you confirm your eligibility. Foreigners who have been cumulatively resident in Ghana for at least 90 days or hold a valid residence permit are eligible for this ID, so keep this in mind.Â
Get the needed documentsÂ
These documents include a valid passport, a copy of your resident permit, birth certificate, and oath of identity. Make sure they are ready before you begin the process to prevent delays.Â
Familiarise yourself with the processÂ
The process involves the following:Â
- Purchasing a scratch card from designated bank branches or online.Â
- Attending an interview with a registration officer and filling out an application form where you provide your biographical details.
- Going for your biometric capturing, where your fingerprints, iris scan, photograph, and signature will be recorded.
- Confirming the printed details of your recorded information.Â
- Â Collecting your Ghana card at the appointed time.Â
Getting a Ghana card is essential, although the process may seem overwhelming. Fortunately, our legal experts at Acheampong & Associates are willing and ready to assist you with the process. Feel free to reach out to us via:Â
Call: +233 30 254 1870
Chat with us on WhatsApp: https://bit.ly/3E8bJGtÂ
Send us an email: [email protected].Â
Founded in 2015, Acheampong & Associates is a Ghana-based law firm specializing in Immigration, Corporate, Family, Real Estate, and Surrogacy Law. For over half a decade, we have delivered client-focused legal solutions, with a strong niche in world-class immigration, corporate and family services for individuals and organizations. Our team has the expertise and resources to help clients navigate complex legal requirements with confidence and ease.
