The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has introduced a new digital innovation — an online pre-registration portal designed to simplify the national ID application process. The system, officially going live on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, marks a major upgrade in how Ugandans interact with essential government services. We have explained how to use the pre-registration portal both in Luganda and in English.
This isn’t just a technical enhancement — it’s a practical shift that acknowledges the growing need for convenience, efficiency, and digital accessibility in public service delivery.
A Digital Leap for National ID Registration
Gone are the days when applicants had to make multiple trips to offices just to fill out forms or wait in long queues. With the launch of the new pre-registration portal, accessible at https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/eng, Ugandans can now begin their registration process from the comfort of their homes, offices, or any place with a stable internet connection.
Whether you’re applying for a national ID for the first time or seeking to renew an existing one, the new system allows users to input their initial details online. Once completed, the portal generates a unique application ID — a reference number that applicants bring with them to a registration center for final biometric data capture, including fingerprinting and iris scanning.
From a citizen’s perspective, this new approach is a welcome relief. It’s not just about going digital for the sake of modernization — it’s about reducing the burden on individuals. The portal effectively trims down the entire registration process, cutting waiting times and minimizing unnecessary movement, especially for those in remote areas or with tight schedules.
The platform is live 24/7, giving users the freedom to start the process at any time. However, NIRA advises using a desktop computer for a smoother experience, citing technical limitations on some mobile devices that may affect portal functionality.
What Makes This a Game-Changer
The benefits of this new pre-registration system are clear:
- Convenience: You can start the process from anywhere, anytime — no need to queue just to pick up a form.
- Speed: By doing the paperwork in advance, the time spent at offices is significantly reduced.
- Inclusivity: The system ensures those in far-flung districts have the same access to services as urban dwellers.
- Transparency and Organization: With an assigned application ID, every step is trackable, which enhances accountability and reduces errors.
In short, the new system puts power back into the hands of the citizen — you’re no longer at the mercy of administrative bottlenecks.
A Human-Centric Approach to Government Services
As someone who’s navigated the previous registration processes, I must say — this upgrade feels long overdue. It’s not just about digitalization, it’s about empathy. The design of this new system reflects a real understanding of the frustrations many Ugandans have faced in the past, from repeated visits to dealing with long lines.
And while it may seem like a small step in the grand scheme of government reform, it sends a powerful message: public services can, and should, work for the people.
Sure! Here’s a clear, step-by-step tutorial on how to apply for a national ID or renew it using the pre-registration portal:
How to Apply or Renew Your National ID Using the Pre-Registration Portal
Follow these simple steps to start your national ID application or renewal online:
Step 1: Visit the Portal
Go to the official pre-registration portal here:
https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/eng
Step 2: Choose the Service You Need
Once the page loads, select whether you’re applying for a new national ID or renewing an existing one.
Step 3: Fill in Your Details
Carefully enter your personal information, including:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- District of origin
- Contact details
- Any other required fields
Step 4: Review and Submit
Double-check all your details to make sure they are correct. When you’re ready, submit the form.
Step 5: Get Your Application ID
After submission, the system will generate a unique Application ID.
Important: Save or print this ID. You’ll need it during your physical visit to the registration center.
Step 6: Visit a Registration Center
Go to your nearest NIRA office with:
- Your Application ID
- Any required supporting documents (e.g., old ID, birth certificate)
There, they’ll complete your biometric data capture — including fingerprint and iris scans.
Tips for a Smooth Process:
- Use a desktop or laptop computer for the best experience.
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
- Keep your documents nearby in case you need to check any details.
And that’s it! You’ve completed your national ID application or renewal the easy way — starting online and saving valuable time.
Wano waliwo enkyusa ya tutorial mu Luganda, okuyamba abantu abayogera Luganda okulaba engeri gyebayinza okweyanjulira oba okuzzaamu National ID yaabwe ku mukutu gwa NIRA ogw’omutimbagano:
Engeri Y’okweyanjulira oba Okuzzaamu National ID N’okukozesa NIRA Pre-Registration Portal
Goberera ebigambo bino okukola ekkaweefube wo mu ngeri esoboka ennyo:
Step 1: Genda ku Mukutu gwa NIRA
Kkakkana ku mukutu ogw’ebweru ogwa NIRA ogw’okweyanjulira wano:
https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/eng
Step 2: Londa Eky’oyagala
Bw’ofuna omuko ogwo, linda entegeka ya “New ID” oba “Renewal” okusinziira ku ky’oyagala.
Step 3: Jjuzza Amawulire Go
Wandiika obulungi ebyo by’osabwa okuli:
- Erinnya lyo erya mazima
- Olunaku lwe wazaalibwa
- Ekika kyo (Musajja oba Nnamwandu)
- Disitulikiti gy’ova
- Enamba y’essimu oba email
- N’ebirala NIRA by’ekusaba
Step 4: Kebera, Olwo Osindike
Laba obanga by’owandiise bituufu, bw’oba omalirizza, kande osindike.
Step 5: Funa Application ID Yo
Nga osindise, omukutu guli kuzzaako Application ID ya ggwe yekka.
Okukuuma: Wandiika oba ofuuleko printout, kubanga ojja kugikozesa ku ofiisi ya NIRA.
Step 6: Genda ku Office okumpi naawe
Lw’ogenda, twala:
- Application ID gy’ofunye
- Ebikwatagana ku kuzalibwa/obukakafu (n.g. ID enkadde, satifikeeti y’ekuzaalibwa)
Eyo gy’osindikibwa okufuna biometric data capture — okuli okukwata obulago, olwala lw’amaaso, ne fingerprint.
Obulungi bw’Okukozesa Omukutu Guno:
- Kozesa kompyuta entuufu (desktop oba laptop)
- Kuba n’internet ennyonjo
- Kebeera nga otegera ebyetaagisa nga tonnatandika
Bw’okoze kino kyonna, obeera otandise omugendo gwo mu ngeri empya — mu buwanguzi, awatali kubeera mu layini empanvu.
A Call to Action
As registration officially begins this Tuesday, May 27, 2025, NIRA urges all eligible Ugandans to take advantage of the online portal. Whether you’re registering for the first time or simply updating your records, this tool could save you hours — even days — of waiting and running around.
This rollout also sets a precedent. If successful, it could serve as a model for other public institutions aiming to improve service delivery through technology.
In a digital age, convenience isn’t a luxury — it’s an expectation. And with this launch, NIRA is signaling that it’s ready to meet Ugandans where they are: online, on time, and on the path to a more efficient future.
Visit the pre-registration portal now: https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/eng
Registration opens: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
The future of ID registration in Uganda just got a lot simpler.
