Ghana Card Gains Global Recognition as NIA Pushes for International Acceptance
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has outlined key international benefits of the Ghana Card, highlighting its growing role in easing travel arrangements for Ghanaians in the diaspora and strengthening identity verification abroad.
Speaking on Breakfast Daily on Friday, April 10, Director of Corporate Affairs at the NIA, Williams Ampomah E. Darlas, revealed that the Authority is actively engaging foreign embassies to increase global acceptance of the card.
According to him, discussions with diplomatic missions are focused on encouraging the inclusion of the Ghana Card as a required document in visa application processes, although he acknowledged that visa policies remain the sole responsibility of individual countries.
“We are still having conversations with embassies. These are states on their own, so you cannot force them unless through civil engagement. We are doing that and exploring the possibility of embassies requesting the Ghana Card when you apply for a visa. So far, it has been positive, and we are hopeful we can strike that deal,” he stated.
Mr. Darlas further disclosed that Ghanaians living abroad are already benefiting from the card, particularly when travelling back home. He cited Canada as an example, noting that Ghanaian citizens with the Ghana Card can travel to Ghana without the need for a visa.
“For those in the diaspora, if you are a Ghanaian and you have a Ghana Card and you want to travel from Canada to Ghana, you do not need to acquire a Ghanaian visa. With just the Ghana Card, you get your ticket and fly to Ghana,” he explained.
He added that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to position the Ghana Card as a globally recognised identity document that enhances mobility and improves administrative efficiency for Ghanaians abroad.
