Kampala, Uganda, May 27, 2025 – The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) officially launched the much-anticipated mass enrollment and renewal exercise for National Identity Cards (IDs) today, May 27, 2025, across all 146 districts in Uganda. The initiative, aimed at renewing 15.8 million expiring IDs and registering 17.2 million new applicants, follows a successful pilot phase from May 2 to May 26, 2025, and is set to run for six to ten months, with a completion target before August 12, 2025, when the statutory extension for expired IDs ends.

The exercise, backed by a government allocation of UGX 666.85 billion, began with significant turnout in areas like Rubaga and Makindye Divisions in Kampala. However, residents reported delays in the registration process, particularly in the morning, due to technical glitches and logistical challenges. Ms. Caroline Nashemeza, Makindye Deputy RCC, noted that despite early delays, the process stabilized, with new biometric features like iris scanning being successfully introduced to enhance ID security.

NIRA Executive Director Rosemary Kisembo emphasized the exercise’s importance for national security and socio-economic planning, particularly ahead of the 2026 general elections. “We urge all Ugandans to participate actively and truthfully. Identity is central to planning, security, and service delivery,” she said. The new IDs, compliant with ICAO standards, include advanced biometric features like fingerprints and iris scans, and support online and offline verification, digital signatures, and eGovernment services.

The process faced initial hurdles, including delays in procurement and funding, which postponed the original June 2024 start date. However, the delivery of 5,665 biometric registration kits and two high-capacity card printing machines, capable of producing 100,000 cards daily, has bolstered NIRA’s capacity. The agency has trained 7,000 staff and recruited 13,000 additional personnel to manage the exercise at 10,594 parishes nationwide.

While enrollment and renewals are free, changing particulars on an ID costs UGX 200,000, and replacing a lost ID costs UGX 50,000. Express services, delivering IDs within 48 hours, are available for UGX 300,000. NIRA has warned against duplicate registrations, urging those with existing National Identification Numbers (NINs) to use the change of particulars service instead.

Despite the enthusiasm, concerns persist about accessibility, especially in rural areas, and the high fees for changing particulars. Legislators and citizens have called for better training to avoid errors seen in past enrollments and for measures to ensure inclusivity, particularly for vulnerable groups. NIRA has assured the public that teams will visit schools and communities to facilitate registration, with online pre-registration options available starting May 27.

As the exercise progresses, NIRA aims to maintain a credible and secure National Identification Register, critical for voter verification, financial transactions, and access to public services like education and healthcare. The government remains optimistic about meeting the August 2025 deadline, with processing times expected to reduce from four weeks to two as systems stabilize.

Guiding Information on National ID Registration and Renewal Exercise 2025

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has outlined clear guidelines for Ugandans to participate in the mass enrollment and renewal exercise that has started today, May 27, 2025. Below is essential information to ensure a smooth process for all eligible citizens.

Who Can Participate?

First-Time Applicants: All Ugandans aged 16 and above, or those turning 18 by January 2026, who have never registered for a National Identification Number (NIN) or ID card.

Renewal Applicants: Individuals whose IDs, issued in 2014 or 2015, are set to expire between August 2024 and June 2025. IDs expiring after 2025 do not require renewal during this exercise.

Change of Particulars: Those needing to update personal details (e.g., names, date of birth) or replace lost, damaged, or defaced IDs.

Key Services and Costs

• New Registrations: Free for first-time applicants.
• ID Renewals: Free for those with expiring IDs.
• Change of Particulars: UGX 200,000, processed only at NIRA district offices due to legal requirements.
• Replacement of Lost/Damaged IDs: UGX 50,000, requiring a police letter for lost IDs or the expired ID for defacing.
• Express Service: UGX 300,000 for ID delivery within 48 hours.

How to Participate

Locate a Registration Point: The exercise is conducted at the parish level, with at least 10 biometric registration kits per parish operating Monday through Saturday. NIRA teams will also visit schools, places of worship, and markets to reach children and vulnerable groups. Check schedules with your local LC1 chairperson or NIRA district office.

Online Pre-Registration: Starting May 27, 2025, citizens can begin the process online via https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/. Complete the pre-registration form and visit a mobile enrollment site for biometric capture (fingerprints, iris scans, and facial features).

In-Person Registration: Visit the nearest registration point with required documents. Registration is not delegable; applicants must appear in person for biometric capture and ID collection.

Avoid Duplication: Those with existing NINs must not register afresh. Use the change of particulars service to update details to avoid penalties or delays.

Importance of Participation: The National ID is mandatory for voting, accessing financial services, registering births and deaths, obtaining a driver’s license, and enrolling children in school.