How to get a birth certificate in Uganda (NIRA)

Birth certificates in Uganda are issued by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA). A birth certificate is needed for school registration (including UNEB), a child's passport and a National ID later in life.

Documents you need

• Birth notification from the hospital or health facility (if the child was born in one)
• Completed Birth Declaration Form (Form 3), signed by a parent
• National IDs of both parents (or one parent plus explanation)
• For late registration: supporting documents such as a baptism card or immunisation card

Steps to get a birth certificate

1. Get the birth notification from the hospital, or from the sub-county/LC if the child was born at home.
2. Fill in the declaration form at a NIRA office or hospital registration desk.
3. Generate a PRN for the certificate fee and pay.
4. Submit the documents at a NIRA office and collect the certificate.

Fees

Registration of a birth is free. The printed certificate has been reported at about UGX 5,000 for Ugandans (USD 40 for foreigners), but this figure comes from older sources – confirm the current fee on nira.go.ug.

Frequently asked questions

Can an adult get a birth certificate in Uganda?

Yes. Adults can do a late birth registration at NIRA using supporting documents such as school records, a baptism card or an LC letter.

Do I need a birth certificate for a passport?

Children need one. Adults use their National ID.