Uganda National ID Pre-Registration Portal: How to Apply, Renew, or Replace Your ID Online with NIRA (2025 Guide)
In a bid to improve efficiency, reduce long lines, and increase access to identity services, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has launched an official online pre-registration portal. This innovation marks a major digital milestone for Uganda’s public services.
With just a few clicks, Ugandans can now start the National ID application process whether it’s a first-time registration, a renewal, or a replacement before visiting a NIRA center for biometric capture.
Here’s everything you need to know about the portal, who should use it, and how to get started step-by-step.
What Is the NIRA Pre-Registration Portal?
The NIRA Pre-Registration Portal is an online platform created to help Ugandans fill in their ID application details before physically visiting a registration center. It allows you to input your data, download a confirmation slip, and reduce the time you spend at NIRA offices.
Portal URL: https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug
Who Should Use the Portal?
The platform is available to:
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Ugandan citizens applying for their first National ID
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Those renewing an expired card
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Anyone replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged ID
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Parents registering their children (for school, birth registration, or NIN allocation)
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Ugandans abroad planning to apply while still overseas
Why Is Pre-Registration Important?
This digital service isn’t just about convenience. It directly addresses the long-standing issues faced at NIRA centers, including overcrowding, slow service, and manual paperwork errors.
Key Benefits:
- Shorter queues at registration centers
- Faster processing of applications
- 24/7 access to start your application from anywhere
- Reduced human errors from manual data entry
- Makes school-based child registration more accurate
- Boosts national coverage ahead of elections and government programs
Step-by-Step: How to Use the NIRA Pre-Registration Portal
Step 1: Go to https://prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug
Step 2: Choose your preferred language
Available in English and other local options.
Step 3: Select your application type:
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New Registration
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Renewal
Step 4: Fill in your details
Include full name, date of birth, district, sub-county, citizenship info, parent/guardian info, and more.
Step 5: Submit the form
After review, click submit. The system will generate a Unique Application ID.
Step 6: Download your confirmation form
Print the form or save it as a PDF to bring to the registration center.
Step 7: Go to your nearest NIRA center for biometric capture
Bring your printed form and any required documents. This is where they’ll take your fingerprints and photo.
Why Every Ugandan Should Use the Portal
The National ID is more than just a document. It’s now a requirement for:
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SIM card registration
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Bank account opening
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Accessing government services
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Voting in national elections
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Job applications and travel documentation
By pre-registering online, you make the entire process faster and more secure both for yourself and for the country’s ID system.
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