Uganda Visa: Complete Application Guide 2025 (Online Requirements & Process)

Last Updated: October 2025. Processing Time: 3-8 Business Days. Cost: $50 (Uganda Tourist Visa) OR $100 (East Africa Tourist Visa)

Do You Need a Uganda Visa? Requirements by Country

Visa Exempt Countries

Citizens from East African Community countries (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan) do NOT need a visa for Uganda.

To confirm whether you live in a country that doesn’t require a visa to travel to Uganda, Check Full List of Visa-Exempt Countries

Do US Citizens require a Visa to enter Uganda?

Yes, US citizens require a visa to enter Uganda. You must apply for the Uganda Tourist Visa online before travel:

• Type: Uganda Tourist eVisa (single entry)
• Cost: $50 USD + 3% processing fee
• Validity: 90 days from approval date
• Stay Duration: Up to 3 months (determined by immigration officer)
• Processing: 3-8 business days
• Yellow Fever Certificate: Mandatory

Alternative: If you plan to visit Kenya and Rwanda in addition to Uganda, consider applying for the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) for multiple entries across all the three countries.

Other Nationalities

Most international travelers to Uganda are required to apply for an online eVisa prior to entering Uganda. The application process is identical regardless of the traveller’s nationality. To avoid any issues when applying, ensure to:

• Apply from the Official Uganda Immigration Website to avoid being scammed
• Have a passport valid for minimum 6 months
• Provide proof of yellow fever vaccination
• Provide up-to-date and factual information when filling your application
• Fill the visa application yourself and not rely on a third party

IMPORTANT: Visa on arrival is NOT available as of October 2025. You must obtain approval before traveling.

Uganda Visa Types Comparison: Which Visa should you apply for?

Uganda Ordinary/Tourist Visa (Single Entry)

Choose this if:

• You’re visiting Uganda only
• You don’t plan to exit and re-enter Uganda
• You want the most affordable option

Key Features:

• Valid for tourism activities like gorilla trekking, safaris and visiting friends/family
• Single entry means you cannot leave and return on same visa
• If you exit to Kenya/Rwanda, you’ll need a new visa to return to Uganda
• Can be extended at Uganda Immigration Headquaters in Kampala along Jinja Road

East Africa Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)

Choose this if:

• You’re visiting multiple East African countries (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda)
• You want flexibility to cross borders multiple times
• You’re doing regional tours (e.g., gorillas in Uganda, safari in Kenya, culture in Rwanda)

Critical Requirements:

• First entry MUST be through the issuing country. For example if you applied via the Uganda Immigration Portal , you’re supposed to enter Uganda first and NOT Kenya or Rwanda.
• The East Africa Tourist Visa cannot be extended or renewed
• Visa is only for tourism (no business activities or Employment purposes)
• Expires after 90 days OR upon final exit from the three-country block (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda)

Cost Comparison Example between the Individual Country Tourist Visas and the East Africa Tourist Visa:

• Individual Country Tourist Visas: Uganda ($50) + Kenya ($51) + Rwanda ($50) = $151
• East Africa Tourist Visa: $100 (saves $51)

For tourists doing regional tours in Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda, the East Africa Tourist Visa is a better choice as it allows multiple entry into the 3 countries at a discount of 31$.

Learn more about the East Africa Tourist Visa and how to apply by checking out our guide: How to apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa in 2025

How to Apply for Uganda Visa Online: Step-by-Step Process

Before You Start

• Processing Time: 3-8 business days (apply at least 2 weeks before travel)
• Official Website: Uganda Immigration Website
• Payment Method: Online (credit/debit card) - non-refundable
• Fees/Costs: Tourist Visa ($50) AND East Africa Visa ($100 + 3% surcharge)

Scam Warning: Only use the official Uganda Government Immigration website when applying for your Visa. Beware of fake visa websites.

STEP 1: Choose Your Application Type

• Visit Uganda Electronic Immigration System
• Click “Start a New Application”
• Read and accept the disclaimer

Select Your Visa Type:

• VISA/Permit Type: Select “Visa”

• Category: Choose either:

  • “Uganda Ordinary/Tourist Visa” (for Uganda only)
  • “East Africa Tourist Visa” (for Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda)

Sub-Category:

• Uganda Tourist: Select “Single Entry”
• East Africa: Select “East African Tourist Visa”

STEP 2: Complete Personal Information Form

Fill in all required fields marked with an asterisk (*):

Personal/Bio Data:

• Full name (as indicated in your passport)
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Marital status
• Current nationality
• Dual citizenship status (if applicable)
• Place of birth
• Contact information (phone, email)

Passport Data:

• Passport type (ordinary/diplomatic)
• Passport number
• Issuing country
• Date and place of issue
• Expiry date (must be 6+ months valid)

Travel Information:

• Purpose of visit (tourism/business/family visit)
• Expected duration of stay
• Accommodation in Uganda (hotel name/address)
• Expected arrival date
• Intended entry point (usually Entebbe International Airport)

Accuracy Critical: All information must match your passport exactly. Errors when filling your application can result in visa denial or revocation after arriving in the country.

STEP 3: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload these documents in JPEG, PNG, BMP, or PDF format:

Required Documents for Uganda Tourist Visa:

1. Passport Bio-Data Page
   • Must be valid for minimum 6 months
   • Clear, readable scan or photo
   • File size: 5KB - 250KB
2. Recent Passport Photo
   • Color photo on white background
   • Taken within last 6 months
   • File size: 5KB - 250KB
3. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
   • MANDATORY for all travelers
   • Must be valid (given at least 10 days before travel)
   • International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)
   • File size: 5KB - 250KB
4. Return/Onward Ticket
   • Flight confirmation showing exit from Uganda
   • Must show dates within visa validity
   • File size: 5KB - 250KB
5. Travel Itinerary
   • Detailed tour plan
   • Include: dates, locations, activities
   • Hotel/accommodation bookings (if available)
   • File size: 5KB - 250KB

Optional But Recommended:

1. Cholera vaccination certificate
2. Travel insurance
3. Hotel confirmation letters
4. Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)

File Requirements when applying for the Uganda Tourist Visa:

Its important that you take note of the supported file formats and size limits when applying to prevent issues with your application.

• Supported formats: JPEG, PNG, BMP, PDF only
• Size limits: Minimum 5KB, Maximum 250KB

Files outside these limits will be rejected by the system automatically!

STEP 4: Submit Application & Make Payment

• Review all information carefully
• Submit your application
• Save your Application ID (6-digit number, e.g., 234790). You’ll need this when checking for the status of your application, therefore store it safely.
• Complete payment online:
• Uganda Tourist Visa Cost: $50 + 3% fee = $51.50
• East Africa Tourist Visa Cost: $100 + 3% fee = $103

Acceptable Payment Methods: Credit card, debit card (Visa, Mastercard)

IMPORTANT: Visa Fees are NON-REFUNDABLE even if your visa application is denied

STEP 5: Track Your Application

Your application will be reviewed by Uganda Immigration officers within 3-8 business days.

How to check for your Visa Application Status:

• Visit: Uganda Immigration Website Application Status Check Page
• Enter: Application ID + Date of Birth + Passport Number

Possible Outcomes:

1. Approved: Visa approval letter sent to your email
2. Pending: Additional documents requested
3. Denied: Application rejected (fees not refunded)

If Additional Documents are Requested: Submit electronically through the status check page within the given timeframe.

If you don’t receive a rejection communication, do check your spam folder as some people have reported to have had their visas approved but the approval letters had ended up in their email Spam folder

STEP 6: Receive Visa Approval Letter

Once Approved:

• Approval letter sent to your email (PDF attachment)
• Download and print the approval letter
• Letter is valid for 90 days from issue date

Critical: The approval letter is NOT the visa itself. It’s an authorization to travel to Uganda.

STEP 7: Arrive in Uganda

At Entebbe International Airport (or other entry point): Present the following documents to the Immigration Officers:

1. Valid passport (6+ months validity)
2. Printed visa approval letter
3. Yellow fever vaccination certificate (original)
4. Return ticket (may be requested)

The Immigration officer will proceed to:

• Review your documents
• Issue your official visa sticker/stamp
• Determine your authorized stay duration (typically 3 months for tourists)

Important Notes:

• Approval letter doesn’t guarantee entry (officer discretion)
• You may undergo secondary screening
• Lost/stolen passports will result in entry denial
• Immigration policies can change without notice

Required Documents Checklist

Uganda Tourist Visa Documents

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Passport bio-data page copy
• Recent passport-size photo
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)
• Return/onward flight ticket
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Hotel bookings or accommodation address
• Proof of sufficient funds (recommended)
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Cholera vaccination (recommended)

East Africa Tourist Visa Additional Requirements

All above documents PLUS:

• Confirmed travel plans for Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda
• First entry must be through visa-issuing country

Uganda Visa Costs & Fees Breakdown

Notes on Acceptable Payment Methods:

• All fees in US Dollars (USD)
• Payment online via credit/debit card
• Non-refundable even if visa denied or revoked
• Subject to additional banking/processing charges

How to Track the Status of your Uganda Visa Application

You can check the status of your application either physically by visiting the Uganda Immigration Headquarters if you’re already in Uganda or via the online Uganda Immigration Portal

Method 1: Online Status Check

1. Visit the Check Status Page on Uganda’s Immigration Portal
2. Enter the following:
   • Application ID (6-digit number)
   • Date of Birth
   • Passport Number
3. Click “Check Status”

Method 2: Email Notification

• Check the email address provided in application
• Approval letters sent as PDF attachments
• Check spam/junk folders

Forgot Your Application ID?

Retrieve Application ID:

1. Visit: Application ID Recovery Page
2. Enter the email address you used during application
3. Application ID will be sent to your email

How to Extend or Renew Your Uganda Visa

Visa Extension (Uganda Tourist Visa Only)

In Person Renewal: Where to Apply:

• Uganda Immigration Headquarters
• Location: Jinja Road, Kampala, Uganda
• Phone Contact: +256 414 595 945

Requirements:

1. Original passport
2. Current visa
3. Completed extension form
4. Extension fee (varies)
5. Justification letter

Note: East Africa Tourist Visa CANNOT be extended or renewed.

Online Extension Application: Visit Uganda Visa Extension Portal

Uganda Visa Replacement

Need to Replace Your Visa?

Situations Requiring Replacement:

1. Lost passport
2. Damaged visa
3. Passport renewal while visa valid

How to Apply for Replacement:

1. Visit: Visa Replacement Portal
2. Provide the following:
   • Previous Application ID
   • Previous passport number
   • Date of birth
   • New passport details (if applicable)
3. Pay replacement fee

Uganda Embassy & Consulate Locations

Uganda Embassy in United States

• Embassy of the Republic of Uganda - Washington DC Address: 5911 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 Phone: +1 (202) 726-7100 Email: info@ugandaembassyus.org Website: Ugandan Embassy Official Website

The following services are available at the Ugandan Embassy in Washington, DC:

• Visa information and support
• Consular services
• Emergency assistance for Ugandan nationals

Note: All visa applications must be submitted online. The embassy does NOT issue visas directly but can provide guidance.

Other Uganda Diplomatic Missions

1. Uganda Embassy - New York (Consulate)
2. Uganda Embassy - Kampala (for visa extensions)
   • Loation: Ministry of Internal Affairs, Jinja Road
   • Contact: +256 414 595 945

For visa applications, always use the official Uganda Immigration online portal

Important Uganda Visa Rules & Restrictions

Critical Things to Know

Employment Restrictions:

• Tourist visas do NOT permit employment
• Working with tourist visa is illegal
• Foreign nationals must obtain work permits separately
• Volunteer work also requires proper authorization

Entry/Exit Requirements:

• Enter/exit only through official gazetted ports
• Main entry point: Entebbe International Airport
• Land borders: Busia, Malaba (Kenya), Katuna (Rwanda)
• Notify immigration if staying beyond authorized period

Visa Validity:

• Approval letter valid 90 days from issue
• Must travel within 90-day window
• After 90 days, must re-apply (no refunds)
• Single entry visa becomes invalid once you exit Uganda

Document Requirements:

• Always carry your passport and visa documents
• Present yellow fever certificate at entry
• Immigration may request proof of accomodation and travel itinerary
• Keep copies of all travel documents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a Uganda visa on arrival?

No. As of October 2025, Uganda does NOT offer visa on arrival. You must apply online and receive approval before traveling. Anyone arriving without an approval letter will be denied entry.

How long does Uganda visa processing take?

Official processing time is 3-8 business days. However, most applications are processed within 3-5 days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date to allow room in case of any complications.

What if my Uganda visa application is denied?

Visa fees are non-refundable. If denied, you’ll receive an explanation via email. You can re-apply with corrected information or additional documents. You are required to pay visa fees again.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Uganda?

Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Uganda. You must provide the International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow fever card) at entry. No exceptions.

Can I extend my Uganda tourist visa?

Yes, Uganda single-entry tourist visas can be extended at the Immigration Headquarters in Kampala (Jinja Road). East Africa Tourist Visas cannot be extended.

What’s the difference between Uganda visa and East Africa Tourist visa?

Uganda Tourist Visa is single entry while the East Africa Tourist Visa is multiple entry allowing access to Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. Choose East Africa Tourist Visa if visiting multiple countries in the region.

Can US citizens visit Uganda without a visa?

No. US citizens require a visa to enter Uganda. You must apply online through the Official immigration website before travel.

What happens if I overstay my Uganda visa?

Overstaying is illegal and results in fines, penalties, detention, deportation, and potential ban from future entry. Always extend your visa before it expires or exit Uganda on time.

Can I work in Uganda on a tourist visa?

No. Tourist visas prohibit any form of employment (paid or voluntary). You need a work permit and proper documentation for employment in Uganda.

Is travel insurance required for Uganda visa?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is advisable for all travelers.

What if I make a mistake on my Uganda visa application?

Contact Uganda Immigration immediately through the online portal or call +256 414 595 945. Minor errors may be corrected; major errors might require a new application.

Uganda Visa Application Tips & Best Practices

Do’s:

• Apply early: Submit application 2-3 weeks before travel
• Double-check information: Ensure all details match passport exactly
• Use official website: Only apply through Uganda’s Official Immigration Website
• Save Application ID: Write down your 6-digit reference number
• Print approval letter: Bring multiple printed copies to airport
• Check email regularly: Immigration may request additional documents
• Compress files properly: Ensure documents are 5KB-250KB
• Get yellow fever vaccination: At least 10 days before travel
• Keep receipts: Save payment confirmation and all correspondence

Don’ts:

• Don’t use third-party websites: Avoid scam sites charging extra fees
• Don’t provide false information: Can result in permanent visa ban
• Don’t wait until last minute: Processing takes 3-8 days minimum
• Don’t ignore email requests: Missing deadlines causes rejections
• Don’t travel without approval: You’ll be denied boarding/entry
• Don’t assume that visa approval guarantees entry: Immigration ALWAYS has the final say
• Don’t overstay: Penalties include fines, detention, deportation and bans from future entries
• Don’t work on tourist visa: Illegal and results in deportation

Conclusion: Getting Your Uganda Visa

Applying for a Uganda visa is straightforward when you follow the official process. Key takeaways:

1. Apply online at the Uganda Immigration Website
2. Choose the right visa: Uganda Tourist ($50) if you only plan to visit Uganda or East Africa Tourist Visa if you plan to visit Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda ($100)
3. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory
4. Processing takes 3-8 days
5. Print approval letter before traveling

For US citizens and most nationalities, the Uganda eVisa system makes getting your visa simple. Just ensure you apply early, provide accurate information, and have all required documents ready.

Planning to visit Kenya and Rwanda too? The East Africa Tourist Visa offers excellent value at $100 for 90 days of multiple entries across the three countries(Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda).

Need Help?

• Visit the Official Uganda Immigration Website
• Phone: +256 414 595 945
• Embassy (US): +1 (202) 726-7100

Ready to explore Uganda’s gorillas, safaris, and culture? Start your visa application today! and book your safari with us

Inquisitive about what else Uganda has to offer, check out the rest of our travel guides:

• Everything You Need to Know When Applying for the East Africa Tourist Visa
• Where is Uganda Located in Africa
• What Currency is used in Uganda
• What Language do they speak in Uganda
• History, Design and Meaning behind the Uganda Flag
• History, Design and Symbolism behind the Uganda Coat of Arms
• A Guide to the Composition and Structure of the Uganda Nationa Anthem
• Complete Guide to Ugandan Time, Timezone and comparison with major cities around the world

Last Updated: October 2025. Information subject to change by Uganda Immigration Authority