How to Apply for the Uganda eVisa
To apply for the Uganda eVisa, all travelers must visit the official Uganda immigration website: https://visas.immigration.go.ug. Once on the portal, applicants must create an account and select the type of visa they are applying for, be it single-entry, transit, East African, or multiple-entry.
After choosing the visa category, travelers must fill out the online application form with their personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit. Supporting documents are required to complete the process. These include a scanned copy of the passport’s bio-data page, a recent passport style photograph, proof of accommodation in Uganda (hotel bookings or an invitation letter), and a detailed travel itinerary. For some visa types, such as long-term or work visas, additional documentation may be required. Travelers from Yellow Fever risk areas must also upload a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
Once submitted, an acknowledgment email is sent, followed by a decision notification. If approved, applicants will receive an official Visa Approval Letter, which must be printed and presented to immigration authorities upon arrival in Uganda. The actual visa will be endorsed in the passport at the entry point. The processing time for an eVisa typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days.
It is important to ensure all information submitted is accurate and complete, as discrepancies can lead to delays or rejections.
How Much is the Uganda Visa
Visa fees for Uganda depend on the type and duration of the visa requested. A single-entry tourist visa, which is the most commonly used by safari travelers, costs USD 50 and permits a stay of up to 90 days. For travelers passing through Uganda for a short period, the transit visa costs USD 50 and is valid for up to 7 days.
For travelers planning to explore more of East Africa, the East African Tourist Visa is a highly convenient option. It costs USD 100 and allows multiple entries into Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for up to 90 days, provided the travel begins in the country that issued the visa.
Uganda also offers multiple-entry visas for longer-term stays, such as for business or frequent travelers. These come in three durations:
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6 months: USD 100
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12 months: USD 150
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24 months: USD 200
Please note that all visa application fees are non-refundable, regardless of approval outcome or travel plan changes. Penalties for overstaying a visa apply and can include fines or future travel restrictions.
What is the Uganda Electronic Visa (eVisa)
The Uganda Electronic Visa (commonly referred to as the eVisa) is a digital authorization issued by the Government of Uganda that allows foreign nationals to enter the country for tourism, business, medical visits, or transit. It simplifies the traditional visa process by moving it entirely online, thereby saving travelers time at ports of entry. The eVisa system also allows visitors to apply and get approval before arrival, making travel more convenient and predictable. Uganda no longer issues visas upon arrival, so it is mandatory for most travelers to secure their eVisa in advance.
Requirements for a Ugandan Visa
Travelers applying for a Ugandan visa must meet the following basic requirements. A valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry is mandatory, and the passport must have at least one blank page. A recent passport-style photo is required, preferably taken within the last 6 months against a white background.
Other requirements include a confirmed accommodation booking, such as hotel reservations or a host invitation letter, and a clear travel itinerary, including round-trip tickets or inter-country travel plans. A valid email address and contact number must be provided to facilitate communication and updates during the processing period.
For travelers from Yellow Fever, endemic countries, a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required. Payments for the visa must be made online using Visa, Mastercard, or other recognized payment systems supported by the portal.
It is important to note that infants and minors also need a visa, and their application must include a passport, photo, and other relevant documents.
Types of Visas for Uganda
Uganda offers several visa types tailored to different traveler needs. The Single-Entry Visa is intended for travelers coming into the country once for tourism, family visits, or short business engagements. This visa allows a 90-day stay and is non-renewable.
The Transit Visa is suitable for those passing through Uganda en route to another country and wish to spend a short time in Uganda, up to 7 days.
The East African Tourist Visa, jointly issued by Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, is a regional visa that allows for seamless travel across the three countries for up to 90 days on multiple entries. It is perfect for travelers planning cross-border safaris or regional tours and must be obtained from the country of initial entry.
For travelers who visit Uganda regularly, the Multiple-Entry Visa is available in 6, 12, and 24-month versions. These are ideal for business professionals, long-term tourists, or individuals with family and property in Uganda. These visas require additional documentation and stronger justification.
There are also specific Work Visas, Student Visas, and Resident Permits, which cater to longer stays, employment, and study. These require separate applications, supporting letters, and, often, background checks.
Persons Exempted from Obtaining a Ugandan Visa
Citizens of certain countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter Uganda. Nationals of East African Community (EAC) member states including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, do not require a visa and can travel freely using national passports or EAC e-passports.
Additionally, diplomatic and official passport holders from countries with bilateral agreements with Uganda may enter without a visa. Children under the age of 5 traveling with parents may also be exempt from Yellow Fever certification, depending on the entry point.
Travelers are advised to check their eligibility for exemption on the official Uganda immigration website or consult with their nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate before travel.
In Case You Want to Stay Longer
If your travel plans change and you wish to remain in Uganda beyond your visa’s validity, you must apply for an extension or a different visa category before your current visa expires. Overstaying a visa is a serious offense and may result in penalties, deportation, or restrictions on future travel to Uganda.
To apply for a visa extension or change of status, visit the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control offices in Kampala or designated immigration offices across the country. Be prepared to present your passport, current visa, reason for extension, and supporting documents such as accommodation bookings and proof of ongoing travel.
For travelers planning frequent or extended visits to Uganda, such as for business, volunteering, or long stay tourism, a Multiple-Entry Visa or Special Pass Permit may be more suitable and should be applied for through the immigration portal or in-country offices.
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