Uganda’s National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has introduced a new online system to make national ID registration and renewal simpler for everyone.
The new digital portal is now live on the official NIRA website, and it allows people to start their ID applications online before finishing the process with a biometric check at a nearby NIRA center. This is great news for both new applicants and those who need to renew their national IDs, especially those expiring in June 2025.
After applying online, you’ll get a unique application number. You’ll need to take this with you to your NIRA appointment, where they’ll capture your fingerprints and eye scan (iris).
NIRA advises that the portal works best on a computer, as it’s not yet fully supported on phones.
This new system is part of a countrywide mass ID renewal exercise running until August 12, 2025. After that date, expired IDs will no longer be valid.
What You Need to Apply
- Renewing your ID? It’s free if you bring your old ID or even a photocopy.
- New adult applicants must show a photocopy of a parent’s, grandparent’s, or blood relative’s ID and a letter from your local council or a citizenship certificate.
- For children under 18, a copy of a relative’s ID is needed.
- Lost your ID? You’ll need a police report or a copy of the old ID.
- Want to update your personal info? Go to a NIRA district office with proof documents.
Fees:
- Lost ID: UGX 50,000
- Corrections/updates: UGX 200,000
How Long Will It Take?
Normally, processing takes about four weeks, but due to the high number of applications, it may take up to five months during this first phase. Later, NIRA expects to reduce the wait to just two weeks.
One big change is that NIRA will now deliver IDs directly to people’s homes, making the whole process even more convenient.
This upgrade was made possible through a partnership with Tahaluf Al Emarat, a company from the UAE. As part of the deal, Uganda received over 5,600 biometric kits, powerful ID card printers, and secure servers to improve service.
Nationwide registration began on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, and the goal is to give every Ugandan access to secure, verified identification.
