The National Identification Authority has suspended all applications for changes to dates of birth recorded on the Ghana Card system, following a review that identified the need for stronger verification procedures and additional safeguards.
The suspension took effect on Monday, November 9, 2026, and will remain in force until further notice.
In a public announcement issued on the same date, the Authority said the decision followed an assessment of its existing date of birth amendment process and the need to strengthen the procedures governing such requests.
The statement, signed by the Head of Corporate Affairs, Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, explained that the Authority had begun consultations with relevant institutions to improve the credibility and consistency of the verification system.
Among the institutions involved in the consultations are the West African Examinations Council and the Births and Deaths Registry, together with other relevant stakeholders.
The engagement is intended to establish more transparent and standardised procedures for determining the authenticity of information submitted by individuals seeking changes to their recorded dates of birth.
Under the directive, NIA offices nationwide will no longer accept or process new applications for date of birth amendments during the suspension period.
Applications that had already entered the processing system will also remain unapproved until the revised procedures have been finalised.
The Authority explained that members of the public would be informed when the consultations had been completed and the updated guidelines were ready for implementation.
The suspension is expected to affect individuals who require amendments to their personal identification records, particularly those whose official documents contain discrepancies involving their dates of birth.
The Ghana Card serves as a major national identification document and is increasingly used in accessing public services, financial transactions and other essential administrative processes.
Consequently, the accuracy of information contained in the national identification database remains important for preventing identity fraud and ensuring the reliability of official records.
The Authority has apologised for any inconvenience resulting from the suspension and appealed for public understanding while the review process continues.
Although the decision is described as temporary, no specific date has been announced for the resumption of date of birth amendment services.
