Overview
Uganda’s National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has announced that the registration of foreign nationals commenced on 10 June 2026 under the Registration of Persons Act.
The requirement applies to all foreign nationals lawfully residing in Uganda, except visitors staying in the country for 90 days or less.
What Has Changed?
Eligible foreign nationals must now register with NIRA and obtain an Alien Identification Card.
Upon successful registration, applicants will be assigned a Unique Identification Number (UIN) and issued with an Alien Identification Card. The card’s validity will correspond to the validity of the holder’s immigration permission.
Applicants are required to:
- Pay the prescribed registration fee of USD 100
- Attend a NIRA registration centre for document verification and biometric enrolment
Applicants must provide a valid passport, visa, immigration permission and proof of payment.
Who Is Affected?
The registration requirement affects foreign nationals residing in Uganda under:
- Other valid immigration permissions
Employers with foreign workers in Uganda should also be aware of the new requirement and ensure affected employees complete the registration process.
Key Implications for Employers and Foreign Nationals
The introduction of a formal foreign national registration system strengthens Uganda’s immigration compliance framework and creates an additional administrative requirement for long-term foreign residents.
Foreign nationals should ensure they register promptly to avoid potential complications when renewing immigration permissions or interacting with government.
Employers may wish to review their expatriate populations and provide support to employees through registration planning and ongoing compliance monitoring.
This development aligns with a broader trend among governments to improve identity management and maintain more accurate records of foreign nationals residing within their borders.
While the immediate impact is primarily administrative, the introduction of Unique Identification Numbers and Alien Identification Cards may lead to closer integration between immigration processes and identity management systems over time.
Conclusion
Foreign nationals residing in Uganda for more than 90 days should review their status and take steps to complete registration with NIRA. Employers should likewise ensure affected employees understand and comply with the new requirements.
Written by Andreas Krensel, Senior Director, Africa and Europe
