Navigating Uganda VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Uganda maintains a clear and traveler-friendly visa policy designed to support tourism, business, and regional mobility while ensuring national security. Most foreign nationals are required to obtain a visa before entering Uganda, with the application process primarily conducted through an official online e-Visa system. Uganda offers various visa categories, including tourist, business, transit, student, and work-related visas, each aligned with the purpose and duration of stay.
The country also participates in the East Africa Tourist Visa program, allowing eligible travelers to visit Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda under a single visa. Visa applicants must meet basic entry requirements such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and compliance with health and immigration regulations. Uganda’s visa framework emphasizes efficiency, transparency, and regional cooperation, making it accessible for international visitors while safeguarding immigration control.
Why Uganda Is Calling
Unlock a world of vibrant wildlife, rugged wilderness, and warm hospitality in the heart of East Africa. But before you board that flight, mastering Uganda’s visa process is your first smart move.
Know If You Need a Visa or Not
- Visa Exemptions: Nationals from specific COMESA and EAC countries (e.g., Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan) enjoy visa-free entry—typically up to 3 months.Check yours
- Non‑ordinary passport holders (e.g., diplomatic/service) from select nations may also be exempt.
Types of Visas Offered
Ordinary Visa
For tourism, family visits, and short-term business activities. Valid for single or multiple entries with varying durations.
- Single Entry (up to 3 months)
- Multiple Entry (6 months or 1 year)
- Extensions possible with justification
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Uganda to another destination. Requires proof of onward travel.
- Valid for 7 days
- Cannot be converted to other visa types
- Must show confirmed ticket to final destination
East African Tourist Visa
Joint visa allowing travel between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. Issued for tourism purposes only.
- Valid for 90 days
- Multiple entries between the three countries
- Must be used within 3 months of issue
Diplomatic & Official Visas
For foreign government officials, diplomats, and representatives of international organizations.
- Issued gratis (free of charge)
- Requires official note from sending government
- Special processing procedures apply
Student Visa
For foreign nationals pursuing academic studies at recognized Ugandan institutions.
- Requires admission letter from institution
- Valid for duration of study program
- Allows limited part-time work with permission
Work Permit
For foreign nationals employed in Uganda. Different classes based on skills and contract duration.
- Class A: Specialized professional roles
- Class B: Technical and skilled positions
- Class C: Specific project-based employment
Application Portal
- Visit the official Uganda e‑Visa Portal: [visas.immigration.go.ug]—avoid unofficial sites charging inflated fees.
- Select visa type and duration (Ordinary, East African, Multiple Entry).
- Complete the form and upload:
- Passport bio‑data page (valid for at least 6 months),
- A recent passport photo,
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate,
- Additional documents as per visa type (police clearance, invitation letters, etc.).
- Submit and note your application ID.
- Pay the visa fee online—payments incur an approximate 3% surcharge.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a travel authorization letter via email—print and carry it with your passport to present at entry.
- Processing typically takes 2–3 working days, but it’s wise to apply at least 5 working days before travel.
Essential Pre‑Travel Checklist
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Passport valid for ≥ 6 months | Mandatory for approval and entry |
| At least one blank passport page | Needed for entry stamp |
| Yellow fever vaccination card | Required for all visitors |
| Full documentation (photo, itinerary, proof of funds) | Speeds up application and avoids delays |
Documentation Checklist
All visa applicants must provide the following documents:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- Two recent passport-sized photographs with white background
- Proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay
- Return ticket or proof of onward travel
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
| Visa Type | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|
| Business Visa | Invitation letter from Ugandan company, business registration documents |
| Student Visa | Admission letter from recognized institution, academic transcripts |
| Work Permit | Employment contract, educational certificates, clearance from relevant professional body |
| Conference Visa | Conference invitation, event registration confirmation |
| Journalist Visa | Letter from media organization, detailed itinerary, equipment list |
Visa Fee Structure (USD)
All fees are payable in US Dollars or equivalent local currency at the prevailing exchange rate. Fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Tourist & Business Visas
| Visa Type | Duration | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | Up to 3 months | $50 | 3-5 business days |
| Multiple Entry | 6 months | $100 | 5-7 business days |
| Multiple Entry | 12 months | $150 | 7-10 business days |
| Multiple Entry | 24 months | $250 | 10-14 business days |
| East African Tourist Visa | 90 days | $100 | 5-7 business days |
Other Visa Categories
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Transit Visa | $40 | 1-2 business days |
| Student Visa | $100 | 10-14 business days |
| Gratis Visa (Diplomatic) | Free | 5-7 business days |
Work Permit Fees
| Permit Class | Duration | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Class A1 | 12 months | $2,500 |
| Class A2 | 12 months | $1,500 |
| Class B1 | 12 months | $1,000 |
| Class B2 | 12 months | $750 |
| Class C | Project duration | $500 |
| Class D (Domestic Staff) | 12 months | $250 |
Additional Services
| Service | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Express Processing (48 hours) | $50 |
| Visa Extension (per month) | $50 |
| Replacement of Lost Visa | $100 |
| Change of Visa Category | $100 |
Payment Information
Visa fees can be paid online through the official e-visa portal using credit/debit cards or at designated bank branches. Cash payments are accepted at Ugandan diplomatic missions. All fees are non-refundable regardless of application outcome.
Optional: Work or Special Permits
- Work Permits (Class G1/G2): Employers must apply via the immigration portal; fees range between USD 1,500–2,500 per year.
- Special Pass: Enables temporary stay (e.g., consultancy or while waiting for full permit) for visits less than three months..
Travel Policies & Entry Requirements
In addition to visa requirements, travelers to Uganda should be aware of various travel policies that affect entry and stay in the country.
COVID-19 Regulations (Current as of 2023)
Uganda has lifted most COVID-19 related travel restrictions. However, travelers should check for updates before departure as policies may change based on global health situations.
Customs Regulations
Travelers must declare the following items upon entry:
- Currency exceeding USD 10,000
- Commercial goods or samples
- Firearms, ammunition, and weapons (require special permits)
- Protected wildlife products and cultural artifacts
Prohibited and Restricted Items
The following items are strictly prohibited or restricted:
- Narcotics and illegal drugs
- Counterfeit goods and currency
- Pornographic materials
- Uncertified pharmaceuticals
- Plastic bags (Uganda has banned single-use plastic bags)
Health Requirements
In addition to Yellow Fever vaccination, recommended vaccinations for Uganda include:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Cholera (for travel to high-risk areas)
- Meningitis
- Rabies (for extended stays or rural travel)
- Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended for all travelers
Driving in Uganda
International visitors can drive in Uganda with a valid international driving permit for up to 90 days. After this period, a Ugandan driving license is required. Traffic moves on the left side of the road in Uganda.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Quick Overview
Uganda Visa FAQs
- Tourist Visa: Leisure, sightseeing, visiting family
- Business Visa: Meetings, conferences, trade activities
- Transit Visa: Passing through Uganda
- East Africa Tourist Visa: Uganda, Kenya & Rwanda
Yes. Uganda offers an online e-Visa system. Applicants must apply online, upload documents, and receive approval before travel.
- Complete the online visa application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay the visa fee online
- Receive approval letter via email
- Present approval on arrival
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Travel itinerary or return ticket
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Tourist / Business Visa: USD 50
- East Africa Tourist Visa: USD 100
- Transit Visa: USD 50
Processing usually takes 2–5 working days, but delays may occur during peak travel periods.
Most Uganda visas allow a stay of up to 90 days, depending on visa type and approval.
Yes. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda.
Most foreign nationals require a visa. Only citizens of select visa-exempt countries are allowed entry without a visa.
- Incomplete or incorrect application
- Invalid passport or documents
- Lack of travel purpose clarity
- Missing yellow fever certificate