The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has unveiled a new online pre-registration portal that is set to revolutionize how Ugandans apply for or renew their National Identification Cards.
Available at https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug/pre-registration-ui/#/eng, the platform enables applicants to start the registration process from anywhere with internet access, easing the pressure on physical registration centers and drastically cutting down long queues that have frustrated many citizens in the past.
Previously, the registration process was predominantly manual, requiring applicants to visit NIRA offices or designated registration points to fill out paper forms.
This system posed significant challenges, including long waiting times and accessibility issues for residents in remote and rural areas who faced costly and time-consuming travel.
The manual approach also increased the chances of data entry errors and slowed down the overall processing time.
Biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition were collected in-person at these centers, often contributing to further delays.
The newly launched online portal allows first-time registrants and card renewals to submit detailed personal and parental information digitally.
Once an application is completed, the system generates a unique Application ID that applicants must present, along with a printed copy of their application form, at the nearest NIRA registration center to finalize biometric enrollment.
To ensure optimal use of the portal, NIRA advises applicants to access the service via desktop or laptop computers instead of mobile phones, as the platform’s full capabilities are best supported on larger screens and stable internet connections
By shifting data entry online, NIRA hopes to reduce congestion at registration centers, allowing staff to focus on capturing biometric data and issuing ID cards more efficiently.
However, challenges remain for individuals with limited digital literacy or internet access, underscoring the need for continued public education and support initiatives.
Peter Okwalinga, a NIRA official, addressed concerns from parents about the accuracy of children’s data during the ongoing national ID mass enrollment in schools.
“Parents, are you worried about the accuracy of your children’s data once NIRA visits schools during national ID mass enrollment? Well, NIRA has created a platform that allows you to pre-register the little ones for NINs at home.”
To use the portal, applicants must visit the website, choose whether they are registering for the first time or renewing their ID, and complete the application with accurate details.