The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has launched an online pre-registration portal on its website, enabling Ugandans to begin the national ID registration or renewal process from any location with internet access.
This self-service option is available for both first-time applicants and those renewing expired ID cards.
After submitting an application online, users will receive a unique reference number to present at the nearest NIRA center, where officials will capture biometric data, including iris scans.
For a smoother experience, NIRA recommends using a computer rather than a mobile phone to access the portal. The ID renewal exercise began with a pilot phase running from May 2 to May 26, 2025.
This initial phase involves NIRA board members and officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Nationwide registration opens to the public on May 27, 2025.
Renewal is free for applicants who present their old ID, either in original form or as a photocopy. In cases where the ID is lost, a valid police letter will suffice.
A replacement fee of Shs50,000 applies for lost IDs, while corrections or changes to existing records will cost Shs200,000.
Priority will be given to individuals whose IDs are set to expire in June 2025.
NIRA aims to register 17.2 million previously unregistered Ugandans and renew ID cards for 15.8 million citizens.
To renew a national ID, applicants must present their old National ID card or, in the case of a lost ID, a valid police letter.
For first-time registration, all Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above are required to present an introduction letter signed by the LC1 Chairperson and stamped by the Internal Security Officer (GISO or ISO). The letter must include the applicant’s name, date of birth, tribe, clan, and nationality, as well as the names, tribes, clans, nationalities, and living status of the applicant’s parents.
Applicants under the age of 18 must present a photocopy of at least one parent’s National ID. If both parents are deceased, a copy of a blood relative’s National ID will be required.
