NIRA begins handing out national ID cards to legally resident non-Ugandans in Kampala

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has started issuing identity cards to foreigners legally resident in Uganda, with the first group collecting their cards at Lumumba Avenue in Kampala, according to NIRA spokesperson Osborn Mushabe. NIRA said registration of foreigners began on 10 June 2026 and that over 1,800 had been registered by 20 August; officials said diplomats and refugees are exempt, the card's validity follows the work permit, and holders cannot vote.