Are you planning a trip and wondering whether you need a visa to enter Uganda? There are several important safety and security factors to consider and preparations to make before you travel.

In this guide, we&'ll cover everything you need to know, from the latest travel warnings to the travel documents, entry restrictions, and health requirements US citizens need to apply for a Ugandan visa.

Can US citizens travel to Uganda right now?

What travel documents do US citizens need to travel to Uganda?

Can US citizens go to Uganda without a passport?

Can US citizens get a Ugandan visa on arrival?

Who can travel to Uganda without a visa?

How do I apply for a Uganda visa?

What are Ugandas visa types and visa requirements?

How much is a Uganda visa for US citizens?

How long is my Uganda visa valid?

What happens if I overstay my visa in Uganda?

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

What are Uganda's health requirements and screenings?

What COVID-19 test is required for Uganda?

FAQs on Uganda travel requirements

Online resources for travelers to Uganda

Be prepared for a successful trip with Travisa

Can US citizens travel to Uganda right now?

The latest update from the US State Department in June 2023 cautioned US citizens to reconsider travel to the Republic of Uganda for safety and security reasons. This is the second-highest threat warning level issued by the Department of State, just below a Do Not Travel warning.

Uganda’s recent LGBTQI+ legislation, the May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act, raises the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived as LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death. Travelers should be mindful that public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal.

There is an ongoing threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Republic of Uganda, particularly in larger cities, including Kampala and Entebbe, in the Karamoja region and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. You should be vigilant and keep a low profile. Carry a copy of your passport and visa and keep the originals in the hotel safe.

Travelers to Uganda should read up on the State Department’s guidance on travel to high-risk areas, and also be sure to sign up for the SMART Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You will receive critical alerts and tools for preparing a contingency plan in emergencies and make it easier to find you in an emergency.

What travel documents do US citizens need to travel to Uganda?

American citizens must have a valid US passport and Uganda visa to travel to Uganda. US passport holders must apply online for an e-Visa and receive their e-Visa before traveling

Can US citizens go to Uganda without a passport?

No, a passport valid for at least six months is mandatory for US citizens to enter Uganda.

Can US citizens get a Ugandan visa on arrival?

US citizens are required to apply for their Uganda e-Visa online before arrival. The Uganda e-Visa, once approved, will be delivered via email and must be printed for presentation at immigration control upon entering Uganda.

Who can travel to Uganda without a visa?

Citizens of some visa-exempt countries can travel to Uganda without a valid visa, but the US is not on the visa-exempt list. 

How do I apply for a Uganda visa?

There are different types of Uganda visas, and the right one for you depends on your specific travel plans.

Applications are processed on the online immigration portal, requiring the selection of visa type, form completion, document uploading, payment of visa fee, and biometric capture at the immigration office upon approval. Additional documents may be requested during processing. All required documents should be in English.

Qualified travel agents and immigration specialists—such as Travisa—can help their clients obtain visas by simplifying the process and clearing up any doubts on their specific visa application form.

Once the application for an electronic visa is submitted and the processing fee is paid, the e-Visa should be processed and delivered within seven days of applying.

What are Uganda's visa types and visa requirements?

Single-entry visas, including the Uganda tourist visa, e-visas for business, and visas for family visits, are valid for up to three months (90 days) and have different requirements. 

Multiple-entry visas are available for frequent travelers issued for six to 24 months. They require valid police clearance from Interpol or their home country, a recommendation letter from one or two references in Uganda, and a cover letter stating the reasons for multiple entries.

• Uganda tourist e-Visa: Requirements include a passport copy, tour plan, travel itinerary, photo, yellow fever vaccination certificate, and hotel booking or address.
• Uganda business visa: Requirements include an invitation letter from the host stating the nature of your business in Uganda. This business application is intended for individuals attending meetings or conferences.
• Uganda study visa: A school invitation and admission letter are required for student visas.
• Visas for family visits: An invitation letter and details of the host's immigration status are required.
• Diplomatic and official visas: A diplomatic note or support document for the visit are required. These visas are issued to diplomatic and official passport holders and those exempted from immigration fees.
• Transit visas: For travelers passing through Uganda for a week or less.
• East African tourist visa: These visas allow travel to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for tourism only. They are country-specific for entry, so you must arrive through the country that issued the visa.  

How much is a Uganda visa for US citizens?

Securing a visa to Uganda for US citizens requires a fee paid to the Ugandan government, in addition to Travisa' handling fee.

These are the government costs per applicant:

• Single-entry visa for tourism, business, study or family visits: $50
• Diplomatic and official visa: free
• Transit visa: $50
• Multiple-entry visa: $100 for six to 12 months; $200 for 24 months.
• East African tourist visa: $100

Visa fees are nonrefundable, and all payments may be subject to a bank charge. In addition to mandatory government fees, Travisa charges amongst the industry’s lowest service rates.

How long is my Uganda visa valid?

The validity of your Uganda visa depends on the type of visa issued.

• Single-entry visa: This visa is valid for up to three months (90 days). It may be extended for another 60 days in two intervals. Applications for an extension can be made online or in person at the headquarters and regional immigration offices.
• Diplomatic and official visa: The validity is usually determined based on the purpose and duration of the diplomatic or official duties.
• Transit visa: This visa is valid for a maximum of seven days and is not extendable.
• Multiple-entry visa: This visa is valid for the duration granted at the time of application, which can be six months, 12 months, or 24 months.
• East African tourist visa: This visa is valid for 90 days and is not extendable upon expiration or exit from any countries in the block (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda).

Always refer to the visa-validity details given when your visa is issued, and do not overstay your visa without prior approval in the form of an extension.

What happens if I overstay my visa in Uganda?

Overstaying a visa in any country, including Uganda, can lead to fines, deportation, or even a future ban from entering the country. Foreign visitors who overstay a visa in Uganda may be fined $30 for each day they overstay their Uganda visa and potentially be subject to detention. It is advisable to respect the terms of your Ugandan visa or formally apply for an extension.

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

The Uganda e-Visa and passport serve as your entry and exit forms. You will receive the visa via email after completing your application. You must print this form and present it to the immigration officer upon arrival in Uganda. You should also bring a Yellow Fever Card proving vaccination and booking confirmation for your flight leaving Uganda.

What are Uganda's health requirements and screenings?

Considering health requirements when preparing for a trip to Uganda is crucial, and guidance is subject to change. For the latest information, always check government sites directly

Vaccinations

One of the mandatory health requirements is proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travelers older than one year. You must upload a digital copy of your yellow fever vaccination certificate when applying for your e-Visa. A yellow fever vaccine can take up to 10 days to become effective after it is administered, so you may be refused entry if your vaccination date is too close to your arrival in Uganda.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa. Uganda is currently considered a high risk to travelers for polio. The CDC recommends that anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio-vaccine series before traveling to any high-risk destination. Adults who have previously had the complete routine polio-vaccine series should get a single lifetime booster dose of the polio vaccine.

The CDC recommends all travelers have completed COVID-19 vaccinations before traveling internationally, as well as certain precautions to ensure you remain healthy as you travel in Uganda specifically. Consult the organization's traveler packing list and Travisa' international travel checklist to get prepared.

Prescriptions and medical records

If you have specific medical conditions and are on prescribed medication for medical treatment, bringing them with you is advisable to ensure they are readily accessible. To avoid potential trouble at border control, check to confirm that Uganda entry rules allow you to bring in your specific prescription meds before you travel.

FAQs on Uganda travel requirements

Can I travel to Uganda without quarantine?

Foreign nationals can visit Uganda free of COVID-19 restrictions, including quarantine requirements and COVID-19 testing.

However, a COVID-19 vaccination certificate with evidence of an up-to-date booster vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 24 hours is required to enter formal meetings and public places, all Ugandan government buildings, and public and private offices. Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms should not go to closed or crowded places. Handshaking and hugging are prohibited.

The COVID-19 situation and current rules and regulations may change quickly, so checking the latest guidelines before your trip is best.

Do I need to wear a mask in Uganda?

Masks are recommended in enclosed spaces and at public gatherings.

Are restaurants and bars open in Uganda?

Restaurants and bars are open, but some restrictions remain in place. Those wishing to go to a bar or restaurant must wear a mask and may be asked to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. It's advisable to check the latest updates for more details before you travel.

Will my phone work in Uganda?

Major US mobile service providers have coverage in Uganda, and global roaming is available. It's advisable to contact your provider before the trip to confirm roaming charges for voice, data, and text.

What kind of plugs do I need in Uganda?

Uganda uses Type G power outlets—a three-wide prong outlet, the type of plug used in the UK. The country operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz. US travelers will need an adapter and a power converter for devices that cannot operate on 240V.

Online resources for travelers to Uganda

• Information for US citizens traveling to Uganda: US State Department
• Uganda travel advisories: US State Department
• Uganda health alerts: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Visas to Uganda for US citizens: US Embassy in Uganda
• Visa and travel information: Uganda Ministry of Internal Affairs
• Uganda travel facts: CIA World Factbook
• Guidance on international travel for US citizens: US State Department

Be prepared for a successful trip with Travisa

It is essential to plan and prepare thoroughly before your trip to Uganda. Ensuring you have the necessary vaccines and travel documents, including a valid US passport and Uganda e-Visa, will allow for a smooth and enjoyable trip. An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border-crossing requirements. Contact Travisa for a quote today. 

Tuuka bulungi! — Safe travels!