NIRA Launches Online Pre-Registration Portal Ahead of Mass Enrollment and National ID Renewal Exercise

In a major step towards digitizing citizen services, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has announced the official rollout of its online pre-registration portal ahead of the countrywide mass enrollment and National ID renewal exercise scheduled to begin on May 27, 2025.

The new self-service portal, accessible via https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/,eng,allows Ugandans to conveniently initiate the ID application or renewal process online, reducing long queues and wait times at physical registration centers. The portal provides services for both first-time applicants and those renewing expired or soon-to-expire National IDs.

The portal offers a simple user interface designed to guide applicants through the process. After successfully filling out and submitting the required information, each applicant receives a unique application ID, which must be presented at the nearest registration center for biometric data capture—including fingerprints and iris scans.

“This is a major milestone in bringing services closer to the people through digital innovation,” said a NIRA official.“

With just a computer and internet connection, citizens can now begin their application process from the comfort of their homes.”

Emphasizing the importance of digital transformation, NIRA has encouraged applicants to use desktop or laptop computers for better functionality and user experience. While mobile devices can technically access the portal, certain features may not display optimally on smartphones.

The online pre-registration system is expected to streamline the entire ID registration exercise, enhance data accuracy, and reduce congestion at registration centers countrywide.

This year's mass enrollment and renewal exercise comes as many National IDs issued in 2015 reach their 10-year expiration period. NIRA’s campaign will ensure that all Ugandans—especially those in rural and hard-to-reach areas—are enrolled or have their IDs renewed ahead of key national processes such as the 2026 General Elections.

Applicants are advised to complete the online pre-registration process before heading to the designated registration centers to ensure a faster and more organized experience.

What You Need to Know:

Online Pre-Registration Link: https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/eng

Launch Date: May 27, 2025

Services Offered: New ID registration and existing ID renewal

Biometrics Required: Fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scan Preferred

Devices: Computers or laptops for optimal portal use

Next Step After Online Registration: Visit the nearest NIRA registration center with your application ID With Uganda’s population increasingly relying on digital identification to access services like healthcare, banking, education, and voting,NIRA’s move to introduce online pre-registration is both timely and essential.

For more information, visit the NIRA official website.