Mandatory Registration Of Foreign Nationals In Uganda

Introduction

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has commenced the mandatory registration of all qualifying foreign nationals in Uganda. The Registration of Persons Act places an obligation on NIRA to register foreign nationals residing in Uganda. Although this legal requirement has been in force since 2015, NIRA has not previously implemented this mandate. Consequently, possession of a valid immigration document such as a visa was generally sufficient for a foreign national to reside lawfully in Uganda. 

Effective the 10^th of June 2026, all qualifying foreign nationals are required to register with NIRA. 

Who Qualifies as a Foreign National for Registration Purposes?

For purposes of registration, a foreign national refers to a non-citizen residing in Uganda and holding a certain valid immigration authorization. Foreign nationals holding any of the following immigration authorizations are required to register with NIRA;

1. Work permit;
2. Student pass;
3. Pupil pass;
4. Special pass;
5. Certificate of residence;
6. Dependent pass; or
7. Long-term visa.

Tourists and short-term visitors whose stay in Uganda does not exceed ninety (90) days are exempt from this registration requirement.     

Registration Procedure and Requirements

A foreign national who qualifies for registration with NIRA must present the following documents;

1. A duly filled Form 4 (application form);
2. A valid passport; 
3. A valid immigration authorization document; and 
4. Proof of payment of USD 100.

Applicants can initiate the registration process online through the NIRA pre-registration portal at prereg.nsis.nira.go.ug by creating a personal account and following the prompts for foreign national registration and issuance of an identification number and card. 

Registration may also be completed at designated NIRA offices within Kampala Capital City. 

Alien Identification Card

Upon successful registration, the applicant is issued with an Alien Identification Card bearing a unique National Identification Number (NIN). The registration remains valid for the duration of the stay authorized under the immigration facility by the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control. 

Conclusion 

All foreign citizens who are resident in Uganda who fall within the prescribed categories above are required to register with NIRA and obtain a National Identification Number and Alien Identification Card. 

The National Identification Number is increasingly becoming central to accessing public and private services in Uganda. Going forward, registration is likely to become a prerequisite for foreign nationals accessing a range of services in Uganda including banking services, telecommunication registration, renewal or extension of immigration facilities and access to various government services.