NIRA begins issuing upgraded national IDs

Uganda's new National IDs incorporate cutting-edge features including QR codes and 2D barcodes to strengthen verification processes and protect your identity.

KAMPALA, Uganda — The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has announced that a significant batch of upgraded national identity cards are now ready for collection by Ugandans who applied for renewals. This development marks a crucial phase in the ongoing mass enrollment and renewal exercise, which commenced nationwide on May 27, 2025.

Speaking on Monday, NIRA Registrar Claire Ollama confirmed that approximately 100,000 new national ID cards have already been printed and dispatched to various district offices across the country. Ollama urged patience among applicants, stating, “We, however, ask Ugandans to be patient as more people will receive notifications on where to pick their national ID cards.” She clarified that individuals should collect their new IDs from the same stations where their biometric data was originally captured during the application process.

The rollout is part of a broader government initiative to enhance Uganda’s digital identity system, improve service delivery, and combat fraud. The current mass enrollment campaign aims to renew approximately 15.8 million expiring ID cards and register 17.2 million new applicants, including those who are unregistered or turning 16.

Uganda’s new National IDs boast Multiple Laser Images (MLI), Machine-Readable Zones (MRZ), QR codes, and 2D barcodes for robust identity verification

Enhanced Security Features for a Robust System

The new generation of national IDs incorporates several advanced security features designed to make counterfeiting significantly more difficult. These include:

• Multiple Laser Images (MLI): This feature uses laser engraving to embed multiple images within the card, visible at different angles, making the card much harder to forge.
• Machine Readable Zone (MRZ): Similar to international passports, this standardized section on the ID contains encoded data that can be quickly and reliably read by machines, streamlining verification processes.
• Two-Dimensional Barcode (QR Code): This barcode stores various data points, readable by smartphones or specialized scanners, and can be used for quick data retrieval, verification, or even online authentication with user consent and biometric confirmation.
• Iris Biometrics: NIRA is also incorporating iris scanning as an additional biometric feature, complementing existing fingerprint and facial scans, particularly beneficial for individuals whose fingerprints may be less discernible.
• Polycarbonate Material: The cards are made from a durable polycarbonate material, designed to resist wear and tear and ensure a 10-year validity period.
• Ultraviolet Ink and Watermarks: Additional hidden security features are visible only under specialized lighting, further deterring fraudulent attempts.

While the renewal and initial registration for national IDs remain free of charge, NIRA has clarified that fees will apply for services such as changing particulars (UGX 200,000) or replacing lost IDs (UGX 50,000).

NIRA’s Executive Director Rosemary Kisembo has previously highlighted that the new system allows for online pre-registration, enabling applicants to submit biographic information online before visiting a physical office for biometric capture.

This aims to reduce wait times and streamline the application process.

The national rollout at the parish level involves deploying 10 rotating registration kits per district, with schedules determined by local authorities.

This ensures accessibility for citizens across the country. The authority urges all eligible Ugandans to participate in the exercise to ensure they possess a valid national ID, a critical document for various services and national development