The Rwandan digital ID will be issued to citizens, refugees, and foreign residents

 Rwanda Launches Biometric Digital ID for Citizens, Refugees, and Foreigners

Kigali, Rwanda – August 7, 2025 – Rwanda has officially launched its groundbreaking biometric digital ID program, set to benefit Rwandan citizens, refugees, and foreigners alike. The initiative, spearheaded by the National Identification Agency (NIDA), was unveiled by NIDA’s Director General, Mukesha Josephine, during the official rollout of biometric data collection.

This innovative identification system marks a significant shift towards secure, accurate, and convenient digital identity management in Rwanda.

What Makes the New Digital ID Unique?

Speaking at the launch, Mukesha Josephine explained that the new digital ID is designed to hold accurate and up-to-date information about its holder. Unlike the traditional physical ID cards, the digital ID cannot be lost, damaged, or misplaced.

“It doesn’t get lost, and you don’t even have to carry it physically,” she stated. “The owner has the power to decide what information to share, when to share it, and can even stop sharing it when necessary.”

This privacy-focused design ensures that every Rwandan, refugee, or foreign resident can have full control over their personal data, which is a major leap forward in protecting individual rights.

Inclusive Identification for All

One of the most notable features of the new system is its inclusivity. The digital ID will not be exclusive to citizens—it will also be available to:

• Refugees living in Rwanda
• Foreign residents
• Short-term migrants, depending on the services they require

Previously, digital IDs were only given to foreigners staying in the country for at least six months. Now, NIDA will issue IDs to any foreign national or migrant who needs one, regardless of their length of stay, as long as it aligns with the service they require.

Mukesha assured that the registration drive will cover every corner of the country so that no one is left behind. “From a talking child to an adult, everyone will be registered,” she emphasized.

Boosting Service Delivery Across Rwanda

The rollout of the biometric digital ID comes at a strategic time—Civil Registration Month—when government institutions are already focused on improving citizen services.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Bob Gakire, said the timing is perfect.

“This comes during Civil Registration Month, and it will help us improve how we serve citizens,” he noted.

By centralizing and digitizing identification, the government aims to make public services faster, more accessible, and more reliable for everyone in Rwanda.

Citizens Already Seeing the Benefits

Some Rwandans have already signed up for the new system and are excited about the benefits.

Zaninka Tufurahi, a citizen who registered early, told Imvaho Nshya that she was impressed by the concept.

“Based on what they explained, we liked it. No one will be penalized again for not carrying their ID. We’re happy about it.”

She shared a personal story about how the old system was often inconvenient.

“I once lost my ID; it was difficult and took me two months to replace. I had to go to NIDA several times and pay over 6,500 RWF. They finally gave me one because we were about to vote for the President.”

With the new digital ID, such frustrations will be a thing of the past.

Registration and Next Steps

According to NIDA, biometric data registration has already begun, with over 1,200 people registered so far. The next phase will involve photographing citizens, starting in September 2025.

The program is being implemented with strong international backing, supported by the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

Why the Digital ID Matters for Rwanda’s Future

The introduction of a biometric digital identity system is more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a transformational step towards:

• Reducing ID fraud
• Improving access to public services
• Enhancing national security
• Streamlining border and immigration processes
• Protecting personal data through controlled sharing

For refugees and migrants, the ID will serve as a crucial document for accessing healthcare, education, banking services, and employment opportunities. For citizens, it means faster, safer, and more convenient transactions in both public and private sectors.

How to Get Registered

Step 1: Visit the nearest NIDA registration center during Civil Registration Month.
Step 2: Provide the required personal and biometric information.
Step 3: Confirm and approve the data that will be stored in your digital ID profile.

Once registration is complete, your digital ID will be active and ready to use without the need for a physical card.

The Future of Identification in Rwanda

The digital ID aligns with Rwanda’s vision of becoming a fully digital, data-driven economy. By adopting this advanced identification technology, Rwanda is setting a strong example for other African nations aiming to modernize their identity systems.

As more people register, the system will integrate with government portals, banks, telecom companies, and health institutions, making everyday tasks easier and more secure.

For now, Rwandans, refugees, and foreigners in the country are encouraged to register as early as possible to enjoy the benefits of this revolutionary ID system.

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