Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Uganda
CapitalKampala
Population45.9 million
Area241,550 km² (93,263 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish, Swahili
CurrencyUgandan shilling (Sh)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API

To enter Uganda, citizens of most countries require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival or in advance, depending on their nationality and purpose of visit.

Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Uganda before traveling.

Visa Policy Overview

Uganda has a moderate visa policy, with citizens of over 30 countries eligible for visa-free access, while others can obtain a visa on arrival or through an eVisa system. The country aims to promote tourism and business while maintaining national security. Citizens of countries that do not have visa-free access or are not eligible for a visa on arrival must apply for a visa at the Ugandan embassy or consulate in their home country.

The visa policy is designed to facilitate travel to Uganda while ensuring that visitors comply with the country's immigration regulations. The East African Community (EAC) member states, including Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, have a more relaxed visa policy, with citizens of these countries eligible for visa-free access to Uganda.

Requirements By Nationality

NationalityVisa Required?TypeMax StayNotes
US CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysCan be obtained on arrival or through eVisa
UK CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysCan be obtained on arrival or through eVisa
EU CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysCan be obtained on arrival or through eVisa
Canadian CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysCan be obtained on arrival or through eVisa
Australian CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysCan be obtained on arrival or through eVisa
Indian CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysMust apply for eVisa in advance
Chinese CitizensYesTourist Visa90 daysMust apply for eVisa in advance

By Visitor Type

Tourists: Tourists can obtain a visa on arrival or through the eVisa system, which is typically valid for 90 days. The typical stay for tourists is 30-60 days, but this can be extended for an additional 90 days. To extend their stay, tourists must apply at the Immigration Office in Kampala.

Business Travelers: Business travelers require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival or through the eVisa system. They must provide an invitation letter from a Ugandan company and proof of their business activities in the country.

Students: Students require a student visa, which can be obtained through the Ugandan embassy or consulate in their home country. They must provide proof of enrollment in a Ugandan educational institution and sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

Workers: Workers require a work permit, which can be obtained through the Ugandan embassy or consulate in their home country. They must provide a sponsorship letter from their employer and proof of their qualifications and experience.

Documents Checklist

  1. Valid passport with at least six months' validity
  2. Completed visa application form
  3. Recent passport-sized photographs
  4. Proof of payment for visa application fee
  5. Invitation letter or sponsorship letter, if applicable
  6. Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
  7. Proof of onward travel or return ticket
  8. Health certificate, if traveling from a country with a high risk of infectious diseases
  9. Yellow fever vaccination certificate, if traveling from a country with a high risk of yellow fever
  10. Travel insurance, which is highly recommended

Entry Points & Procedures

The main entry points to Uganda are Entebbe International Airport, which is located near Kampala, and several land borders with neighboring countries. Upon arrival, visitors must present their travel documents and complete an arrival form, which will be provided by the airline or at the border crossing. At immigration, visitors will be required to provide biometric data, including fingerprints, and answer questions about their purpose of visit and stay in Uganda. Visitors who require a visa on arrival must pay the visa application fee and provide the required documents.

Uganda has a relatively straightforward entry procedure, but visitors are advised to ensure that they have all the required documents and information to avoid any delays or complications. Visitors who are unsure about the entry requirements or procedures can contact the Ugandan embassy or consulate in their home country or seek assistance from a reputable travel agency.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Not having a valid passport with at least six months' validity
  • Not providing complete or accurate information on the visa application form
  • Not paying the correct visa application fee
  • Not having sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
  • Not having proof of onward travel or return ticket
  • Not having the required vaccinations or health certificates