Visa and Entry Requirements in Uganda

1. What is the current visa policy for traveling to Uganda?

The current visa policy for traveling to Uganda is that most travelers require a visa to enter the country. This can either be obtained in advance through an online application or upon arrival at the airport or land border. However, there are some exemptions and special permits for certain countries and circumstances.

2. Who needs a visa to enter Uganda?
Most travelers, regardless of nationality, will need a visa to enter Uganda. The following categories of people do not require a visa:

– Nationals of East African Community member states (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan) do not need visas for travel within the region.
– Nationals of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa) member states also do not require visas if their stay does not exceed 90 days.
– Nationals of Angola, Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Burundi, Eritrea, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada,
Lesotho, Madagascar Mali Seychelles’ Swaziland’ Tanzania’, Sierra Leone,’ Zambia’ Solomon Island’s’ St Vincent & Grenadines,’ Vanuatu.’ Iceland’, Djibouti’,’ Malawi.’ Botswana’. Mauritius’, Mauritania’,’ Tonga” Namibia’, Comoros Islands’,’ Mozambique’. Singapore’ cooperate fully with Uganda visas required will be available gratis on their arrival for twenty eight days only.
– Diplomatic passport holders from Algeria; China ; India ; Libya; North Korea;Swaziland and Unites Arab Emirates donot require visas.

3. How long is the tourist visa valid for?
The tourist visa is valid for 3 months (90 days) from the date of issue. You can use it to travel multiple times within this period as long as you do not exceed 90 days in total.

4. Can I extend my tourist visa while in Uganda?
Yes, it is possible to extend your tourist visa while in Uganda. You will need to visit the Ugandan immigration office and apply for an extension at least two weeks before your current visa expires. However, it is recommended to apply for a longer visa initially if you know you will be staying in Uganda for an extended period of time.

5. Can I enter Uganda on a tourist visa and then change my status to a work or business visa?
No, it is not possible to change your status from a tourist visa to a work or business visa while in Uganda. If you plan on working or doing business in Uganda, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa before entering the country.

6. What are the requirements for obtaining a tourist visa?
The requirements for obtaining a tourist visa may vary depending on your nationality and method of application (online or upon arrival). However, here are the general requirements:

– A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
– A completed visa application form
– Passport-sized photos
– Proof of yellow fever vaccination
– Travel itinerary or booking confirmation
– Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, credit cards)
– Visa fee payment (varies depending on nationality)

7. Is it possible to get a refund if my trip to Uganda gets cancelled?
Yes, it is possible to get a refund for your visa fee if your trip to Uganda gets cancelled. You can request a refund from the Ugandan immigration office by providing proof of cancellation.

8. Are there any specific entry regulations due to COVID-19?
Yes, due to COVID-19 there are some additional entry regulations in place for travelers entering Uganda:

– All travelers must have proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before arrival.
– Travelers are required to fill out an online health declaration form prior to travel.
– Upon arrival, all travelers will undergo temperature checks and may be subject to additional screening measures.
– Those arriving from countries with high transmission rates will be required to undergo a mandatory quarantine period.
– It is highly recommended to have travel health insurance that covers COVID-19 expenses.
– All travelers are required to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines while in Uganda.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Uganda as a tourist?


Yes, all tourists traveling to Uganda require a visa. Visas can be obtained in advance from the Ugandan embassy or consulate in your home country, or they can also be applied for online through the Uganda Electronic Visa System (eVisa). It is recommended to obtain a visa before arrival to avoid potential delays at the airport.

3. How do I apply for a visa for Uganda?
You can apply for a visa for Uganda by visiting the nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to submit an application form, along with supporting documents such as a passport valid for at least 6 months, a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of sufficient funds for your trip.

Alternatively, you can also apply for an eVisa through the Uganda Electronic Visa System. This allows you to fill out and submit an application form online, and receive your eVisa via email. The eVisa is only available for single entry visas and is valid for up to 90 days.

4. How much does a tourist visa for Uganda cost?
The cost of a tourist visa for Uganda varies depending on the nationality of the applicant. Prices range from $50 USD (for East African countries) to $100 USD (for most other nationalities). There may also be additional fees involved depending on whether you are applying in person or through the eVisa system.

5. How long does it take to get a tourist visa for Uganda?
It typically takes between 3-5 working days to process a tourist visa application through the embassy or consulate. However, processing times may vary depending on demand and your specific circumstances.

For eVisas, applications are usually processed within 2-3 working days. In urgent cases, you can request expedited processing which may take just one day.

6. Can I get a tourist visa on arrival in Uganda?
Yes, some nationalities are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival in Uganda. However, it is recommended to obtain a visa before arrival to avoid potential delays at the airport and to ensure your entry into the country.

7. What do I need to present upon arrival in Uganda with a tourist visa?
You will need to present a valid passport, with at least 6 months validity remaining, and your printed eVisa or stamped visa along with any other required documents (such as proof of yellow fever vaccination). It is also recommended to have proof of sufficient funds for your trip and documentation of your return or onward travel plans.

8. Can I extend my tourist visa while in Uganda?
Yes, it is possible to extend your tourist visa while in Uganda. You can apply for an extension at the Immigration Office in Kampala or at any other immigration office throughout the country. The extension fee is $50 USD for a single entry visa and $100 USD for multiple entry visas. However, it is recommended to contact the Immigration Office or an immigration lawyer for specific instructions and requirements.

9. Are there any restricted or prohibited items I should know about when entering Uganda?
Yes, there are restrictions on certain items when entering Uganda. These include illegal drugs, firearms and ammunition, certain forms of wildlife products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.), pornographic materials, and more. It is important to check with the Ugandan embassy or consulate in your home country for a comprehensive list of restricted items before traveling.

10. Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Uganda?
Yes, it is recommended to get vaccinated against yellow fever before traveling to Uganda. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, and others depending on your length of stay and planned activities in the country. It is best to consult with your doctor or a travel health specialist for advice on necessary vaccinations before traveling.

3. Are there any exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Uganda?

Yes, there are certain nationalities that are exempt from visa requirements in Uganda. These include citizens of Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and the COMESA member states (Burundi, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe). These citizens can enter Uganda with a valid passport and will be granted a 6-month stay upon arrival. Nationals of other countries will need to obtain a visa prior to arrival or at the port of entry.

4. How long does it typically take to obtain a visa for Uganda?


The processing time for a visa to Uganda varies depending on the type of visa and your country of origin. In general, it can take anywhere from 3-10 business days. However, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. It is best to consult with the Ugandan embassy or consulate in your country for specific processing times.

5. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Uganda?

Currently, the Uganda Embassy does not offer expedited processing for visa applications. It is recommended to submit your application well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for normal processing time.

6. Are vaccinations required for entry into Uganda?


Yes, some vaccinations are required for entry into Uganda. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza. In addition to these routine vaccinations, the following vaccines are also recommended for travel to Uganda:

– Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for all travelers over the age of 1 year, unless they are coming from a country with no risk of yellow fever transmission.
– Hepatitis A and B
– Typhoid
– Meningococcal disease
– Cholera: This vaccine may be recommended depending on your travel plans and activities.
– Rabies: Recommended if you will be in close contact with animals or participating in outdoor activities such as camping or hiking.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be requested upon arrival at the airport in Uganda. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or visit a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to ensure that you are up to date on all necessary vaccines and have enough time for any recommended vaccines to take effect. The specific vaccinations required may vary depending on your individual health status and planned activities while in Uganda.

7. Is there a limit on how long I am allowed to stay in Uganda on a tourist visa?


Yes, the maximum length of stay on a tourist visa in Uganda is 90 days. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for an extension from the Ugandan embassy or immigration office.

8. Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Uganda?


It is not recommended to work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Uganda. Tourist visas are intended for temporary visits and do not allow for employment or volunteer work. Engaging in unauthorized work or activities on a tourist visa can result in deportation and may affect future visa applications. If you wish to work or volunteer in Uganda, you should obtain the appropriate visa or permit before arriving in the country.

9. Is it possible to extend my tourist visa once I am already in Uganda?

Yes, it is possible to extend your tourist visa once you are already in Uganda. However, the process and requirements may vary depending on the type of visa and your country of origin. It is recommended to contact the Ugandan immigration department for more information and to initiate the extension process as soon as possible.

10. Are there any medical requirements or vaccinations needed to visit Uganda?

Yes, there are some medical requirements and recommended vaccinations for visiting Uganda. The yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Uganda, and you may be asked to present a valid certificate upon arrival. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, meningococcal meningitis, hepatitis B, rabies, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis), chickenpox, polio, and influenza. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic before your trip to ensure you have all necessary vaccinations for your specific needs.

10. What are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Uganda?


The following are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Uganda:

1. Completed visa application form (available online or at the embassy/consulate)
2. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
3. Recent passport-sized photographs (2-4)
4. Copy of flight itinerary/travel plans
5. Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay (bank statement or letter from employer)
6. Yellow fever vaccination certificate
7. Invitation letter (if applicable)
8. Copy of hotel reservations or proof of accommodation
9. Visa application fee (varies depending on type and duration of visa, see below for more information)

Fees:
– Single entry tourist visa: US $50
– Multiple entry tourist visa: US $100
– East Africa tourist visa (also valid for Kenya and Rwanda): US $100
– Single entry business visa: US $100
– Multiple entry business visa: US $250

Note that fees may vary depending on country of origin and method of application (online or in person). It is advisable to check with the nearest Ugandan embassy/consulate for up-to-date information on fees.

Additional documents may be required on a case-by-case basis, so it is best to consult with the embassy/consulate before applying for a visa.

11. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for business travelers entering Uganda?


Yes, business travelers entering Uganda will need a valid passport and a letter of invitation from the company or organization they are visiting. They may also need to apply for a business visa, depending on their nationality. Additionally, travelers may be required to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival. There may also be restrictions on certain types of businesses that require special licensing or permits. It is recommended to research and follow all necessary procedures and regulations before traveling for business purposes.

12. Do minors require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Uganda?


Minors (children under the age of 18) do not require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Uganda. They can be included in their parent’s or guardian’s visa application. However, they must have a valid passport and other necessary documentation, such as a birth certificate, to enter the country.

13. What is the duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Uganda?


The duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Uganda can vary from 3 months to 6 months, depending on the type of visa and an individual’s nationality. Typically, a single-entry tourist visa is valid for a stay of up to 3 months, while a multiple-entry tourist visa is valid for up to 6 months. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate of Uganda in your country for specific information regarding the validity of tourist visas.

14. Can I enter and exit multiple times with one single-entry tourist visa for travels within Uganda?

No, you can only enter and exit once with a single-entry tourist visa. If you plan to enter and exit multiple times, you will need to apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa.

15. Can I apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Uganda?

No, tourists are not able to apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Uganda. All visitors must obtain a visa before traveling to the country. This can be done through an online e-visa application or through an embassy or consulate of Uganda in their home country.

16. Does my passport need to have a minimum number of months remaining before expiration in order to apply for a visa to enter Uganda?


Yes, your passport must have at least six months remaining before expiration from the anticipated date of entry into Uganda to be eligible for a visa.

17. Will my criminal record affect my eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Uganda?


Yes, your criminal record could affect your eligibility to obtain a visa to enter Uganda. The immigration officers reviewing your application may take into consideration any past criminal activity and determine if it poses a threat to the safety and security of Uganda. It is important to declare any past criminal offenses on your visa application and provide an explanation if necessary. Ultimately, the decision lies with the immigration officer reviewing your application.

18. What are the consequences if I overstay my tourist visa period in Uganda?

Overstaying your tourist visa period in Uganda can result in fines, deportation, and possible detention. You may also be banned from entering the country in the future. It is important to adhere to the terms of your visa and leave the country before it expires to avoid these consequences.

19.Is it possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit (such as student, work, or family) to another while remaining within country limits in Uganda?

Yes, it is possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit to another while remaining within the country limits in Uganda. However, the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for conversion may vary depending on the type of permit being applied for. In general, applicants must meet the necessary qualifications for the new permit and submit a formal application along with all required documents to the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control. The decision to approve or deny the conversion request will be at the discretion of immigration authorities. It is recommended that individuals consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control directly for more information on how to proceed with a residency permit conversion in Uganda.

20.What are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Uganda?


1. Size: The passport photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches (50mm x 50mm).

2. Background color: The background of the photo must be white or off-white.

3. Head size and position: The head size in the photo should be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm to 35 mm) or 60% to 80% of the photo’s height. The head should face directly towards the camera with a neutral expression and both ears visible.

4. Quality: The photo should be clear with no ink marks, tears, creases, or smudges, and must have high resolution.

5. Color: The photo should be in color with natural skin tones.

6. Clothing: Avoid wearing glasses, hats or any other headwear that covers your hairline or hides your face. Religious head coverings are allowed as long as they do not obscure your facial features.

7. Eyes: Your eyes should be open and clearly visible in the photo. Prescription glasses may be worn but there should not be any glare on the lenses.

8. Facial expression: You should have a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed.

9. Lighting: Make sure there are no shadows on your face and that the lighting is even throughout the photo.

10. Resolution and print quality: The photo must have a high resolution and printed on high-quality paper with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch).

11. Photo age: The passport photo must have been taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.

12.Hair: Make sure your hair does not obscure your face or create shadows on it.

13.Jewelry & accessories: Avoid wearing large earrings, necklaces or other accessories that may obstruct the view of your face.

14.Age requirements for minors: For children under six years old, the photo should show a clear image of their facial features, with no other person visible in the photo.

15.Photo format: The photo must be in JPEG format.

16.Digital vs printed photos: Most embassies prefer digitally taken and printed photos, but others may accept conventional prints. Check with the consulate or embassy for specific requirements.

17.Multiple photos: Some embassies require multiple copies of the same photo, so make sure to check specific requirements before submitting your application.

18.Facial expression for infants: If you are taking a photo of an infant under one year old, it is acceptable for them to have their mouth open or slightly open.

19.Photo for online application: For online visa applications, make sure that the photo meets all the above requirements and file formats before uploading it.

20.Visa type: The required size and number of photos may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Make sure to check with the embassy or consulate for specific requirements.