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Uganda Visa for United States Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

US citizens traveling to Uganda should apply online for an e-visa via the official portal visaas.immigration.go.ug; options include East Africa Tourist Visa or Ordinary (Tourist) e-visa, fees start at USD 50, processing typically 2–3 business days, and approval arrives by email as an e-visa to print.

Guide last updated September 4, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry; there should be at least two blank pages in the passport.
  • Specific forms: There are no separate pre-application forms (no DS-160, no VAF1A); use the Uganda e-visa online application at https://visas.immigration.go.ug/ and upload a scanned biographical page of your passport plus a recent passport photo as part of the application.
  • Financial proof: There is no published minimum funds requirement for the e-visa; border officials may request evidence of funds on arrival if asked.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Provide lodging details (hotel bookings) and a return/onward flight itinerary in the online application; border officers may ask for these on arrival.
  • Photo spec: Upload a recent color passport photo (JPEG) meeting typical specs: 35x45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm), white background, full face, no headwear unless for religious reasons, no sunglasses.
  • Biometrics: Not required as part of the online e-visa application; you will present your passport and the e-visa approval at entry; border control may collect biometrics if required.
  • Travel health insurance: Not mandatory; recommended to have travel health insurance for your trip.

Visa types

  • East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV): Official name East Africa Tourist Visa; Validity 90 days from issue; Maximum stay per visit 90 days; Entry: Multiple entries within the 90-day validity; Approx fee USD 100; Local currency (UGX) approx 380,000.
  • Ordinary Visa (Tourist) e-Visa: Official name Ordinary Visa (Tourist) e-Visa; Validity 90 days; Maximum stay per visit 90 days; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee USD 50; Local currency (UGX) approx 190,000.
  • Transit Visa: Official name Transit Visa; Validity 2–3 days; Entry: Single-entry; Approx fee USD 50; Local currency (UGX) approx 190,000.
  • Student Visa: Official name Student Visa; Not offered as an online e-visa; requires embassy/consulate application; Approx fee varies; check with Ugandan Embassy or MFA.
  • Work Visa: Official name Work Visa; Not offered as an online e-visa; requires embassy/consulate application; Approx fee varies; check with Ugandan Embassy or MFA.

How to apply online

  • How to apply online: Go to https://visas.immigration.go.ug/; create an account; complete the online application; upload required documents (passport page scan and photo); select the visa type (Ordinary/Tourist or East Africa Tourist Visa); pay the visa fee with a credit/debit card; receive the e-visa by email as an attachment or a link; print the e-visa or store on your device to present at immigration.
  • Fee and payment: e-visa fees are paid online in USD; local currency amounts are shown as approximate UGX equivalents on the portal (e.g., USD 50 ≈ UGX 190,000; USD 100 ≈ UGX 380,000).
  • Processing time: Typical processing time is 2–3 working days; allow up to 5 working days during peak periods.
  • How approval arrives: You will receive an electronic visa approval (e-visa) via email; carry a printed copy or have the e-visa accessible on your phone to present at border.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee (local currency and approximate USD): Ordinary Tourist e-Visa ≈ UGX 190,000 (about USD 50); East Africa Tourist Visa ≈ UGX 380,000 (about USD 100); Transit Visa ≈ UGX 190,000 (about USD 50).
  • VFS/BLS service fee: Not applicable for online Uganda e-visas; this guide assumes direct online submission via the official portal.
  • Total cost estimate: Base visa fee only (50–100 USD, depending on visa type); taxes or card processing fees may apply depending on payment method.
  • Standard processing time: Approximately 2–3 working days; allow up to 5 working days in busy periods.
  • Express/priority option: No documented express processing option on the official e-visa portal.

Tips for United States travelers

  • How far in advance to apply: Apply at least 5–7 business days before travel; 2–3 weeks ahead is advisable during peak travel seasons.
  • Common rejection reasons for United States applicants: Incomplete application or missing documents; passport details not matching the passport to be used; passport validity less than 6 months remaining; insufficient or unclear travel plans; failure to provide required hotel bookings or itinerary; not meeting yellow fever certificate requirements when applicable.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: Uganda e-visa is issued online via the official portal; there is no VFS/BLS submission for the standard online e-visa. If you need a sticker visa or consular services, contact the Ugandan Embassy or Consulate (e.g., in Washington, DC) for in-person processing.
  • Travel advisories and bilateral notes: Check the U.S. Department of State travel advisory for Uganda before travel; stay informed about security, health, and safety advisories; ensure you have updated immunizations, including yellow fever vaccination if coming from a country with yellow fever risk.
  • Extension options inside Uganda: Extensions of stay may be possible by applying with Uganda Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) before your visa expires; approval is not guaranteed and fee/periods vary; generally extensions are discussed with the immigration authorities in Kampala or at official border points.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.