The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has confirmed its readiness for the upcoming mass ID enrolment and renewal exercise set to begin on May 27, 2025, across all 10,594 parishes in Uganda. The initiative aims to renew 15.8 million expiring national IDs and register an additional 17.2 million citizens—many of whom have never been registered.
- Renewals and new registrations will be handled at parish level.
- Change of details will be done only at district NIRA offices.
- The online pre-registration portal goes live on May 27.
- The new IDs will feature biometric enhancements including fingerprint and iris scans.
Required Documents by Service Type
| Service | Cost | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Renewal | Free | Original or copy of expired ID, or police letter if lost. |
| New Registration – Children (<18 yrs) | Free | Parent’s ID (or that of a grandparent/blood relative). Child must be accompanied by an adult. |
| New Registration – Adults (18+ yrs) | Free | Parent’s or grandparent’s ID, plus LC1 or local official’s endorsement if needed. |
| Correction of Details | UGX 200,000 | Done only at NIRA district offices. Requires supporting documents (see www.nira.go.ug). |
| Replacement of Lost ID | UGX 50,000 | Advised to opt for renewal instead. Requires police letter if ID is lost. |
Each parish registration center will be structured into designated zones:
- Zone A: Vulnerable groups (children under 5, pregnant women)
- Zone B: Mass enrolment
- B1: Pre-registered individuals
- B2: Walk-in applicants
- Zone C: Mass renewals
- C1: Pre-registered for renewal
- C2: Walk-in renewal applicants
- Zone D: Card issuance
- Zone E: Special categories (e.g., persons with disabilities, SAGE program)
- Information Area: Guidance, forms, and assistance by local officials
NIRA Executive Director Rosemary Kisembo emphasized the need for public cooperation:
“Citizens are implored to mobilize friends and families of all ages—babies, teenagers, the elderly—to participate in this exercise.”
She also underscored the pivotal role of LC1 chairpersons in mobilization, household verification, and support for vulnerable groups.
The new national ID cards will support both online and offline verification, include a digital signature, and be compatible with eGovernment services and mobile platforms.
Speaking at a recent briefing, State Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, affirmed readiness:
“The pilot phase allowed us to test systems, equipment, and procedures. We are now ready to commence full operations in all 146 districts starting May 27.”
The government plans to complete the exercise before August 12, 2025, when the statutory extension for expired IDs ends. Initially, ID processing will take up to four weeks but is expected to shorten to two weeks as the process is streamlined.
Muhoozi urged citizens not to create duplicate National Identification Numbers (NINs):
“Those with existing NINs should not register again but should instead use the Change of Particulars service.”
Citizenship in Uganda may be granted by:
- Birth or descent (tribes under Schedule 3 of the Constitution)
- Naturalization
- Registration
- Dual citizenship
- Article 9 of the 1995 Constitution
Applicants in these categories must provide a valid certificate from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control.
NIRA is calling on all Ugandans to participate in this national exercise:
“Identity is central to planning, security, and service delivery. We are committed to ensuring no one is left behind.”
