Uganda eVisa Application Process: Your Complete Guide
Applying for a Uganda eVisa is a straightforward online process that allows travelers to obtain their visa before arriving in the country. The Uganda eVisa system was introduced on July 1, 2016, to streamline visa applications and make travel to Uganda more accessible for international visitors.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the Uganda eVisa application process, from preparing your documents to receiving your approved visa. Whether you're traveling for tourism, business, or transit, following these instructions will help you complete your application successfully and avoid common mistakes.
Before You Start Your Application
Before beginning your Uganda eVisa application, it's essential to ensure you have all the necessary documents and information ready. Proper preparation will make the application process smooth and help avoid delays or rejections.
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Passport bio-data page scan (under 250KB)
- Recent passport photo with white background
- Flight itinerary or booking confirmation
- Yellow fever certificate (mandatory)
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Valid email address for correspondence
- Credit or debit card for payment
- Stable internet connection
- 10-15 minutes to complete the form
- Scanner or smartphone for documents
- Travel details and accommodation info
Ensure all documents are clear and legible before uploading.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these detailed steps to complete your Uganda eVisa application successfully:
Step 1: Access the Official eVisa Portal
Visit the official Uganda eVisa website at visas.immigration.go.ug. Make sure you're using the official government portal to avoid scams or additional fees from third-party websites.
On the homepage, click on "Apply for a Visa" or "Start New Application" to begin the process. You'll be presented with a disclaimer and terms of service that you must read and accept before proceeding.
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Choose the appropriate visa type for your travel purpose:
- Tourist eVisa (Single Entry) - For leisure travel, visiting friends/family, or sightseeing
- Tourist eVisa (Multiple Entry) - For multiple visits within the validity period
- Business eVisa - For business meetings, conferences, or work-related activities
- Transit eVisa - For travelers passing through Uganda (up to 72 hours)
- East Africa Tourist Visa - For visiting Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with one visa
Select the category that matches your travel plans. Most tourists will choose the Ordinary/Tourist Visa option.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the online application form carefully with accurate information. The form will request:
- Personal Information: Full name (as it appears on your passport), date of birth, nationality, gender
- Passport Details: Passport number, issue date, expiry date, place of issue
- Contact Information: Email address, phone number, residential address
- Travel Details: Purpose of visit, intended arrival date, duration of stay
- Accommodation: Hotel name and address or host details in Uganda
- Employment Information: Current occupation and employer details
Important: All information must match your passport details exactly. Any discrepancies can lead to application rejection.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload digital copies of your required documents. Each file must be:
- Format: JPEG, JPG, or PNG
- Size: Under 250KB per file
- Quality: Clear, legible, and in color
Documents to upload:
- Passport Bio-Data Page: A clear scan of the page with your photo and personal details
- Passport Photo: Recent color photo with white background
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Proof of yellow fever vaccination (mandatory for all travelers)
- Flight Itinerary: Confirmation of your round-trip or onward travel
Tip: Use online tools like ReduceImages or iLovePDF to compress files if they exceed the size limit.
Step 5: Review Your Application
Before submitting, carefully review all the information you've entered. Check for:
- Spelling errors in your name or passport number
- Correct dates (birth date, passport expiry, travel dates)
- Accurate contact information (email and phone number)
- All required documents uploaded successfully
Once you're satisfied that all information is correct, click "Submit Application". You'll receive an Application ID number - save this for tracking your application status.
Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee
After submitting your application, you'll be directed to the payment page. The Uganda eVisa fees are:
- Tourist eVisa (Single Entry): $50 USD
- Tourist eVisa (Multiple Entry): $100 USD
- Business eVisa: $50 USD
- Transit eVisa: $50 USD
- East Africa Tourist Visa: $100 USD
Payment can be made using:
- Credit card (Visa, Mastercard)
- Debit card
- Other accepted online payment methods
A processing fee of approximately $1.50 will be added to the visa fee. After successful payment, you'll receive a payment confirmation email.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
The Uganda eVisa processing time typically takes:
- Standard Processing: 2-3 business days
- Average Processing: 3-5 business days
- During Peak Season: Up to 7-10 business days
It's recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to allow sufficient processing time and account for any potential delays or requests for additional documentation.
You can check your application status online using your Application ID and email address.
Step 8: Receive Your eVisa Approval
Once your application is approved, you'll receive an email with your eVisa approval letter attached as a PDF document. This email will contain:
- Your eVisa approval letter with a barcode
- Your application details and visa validity dates
- Instructions for entry into Uganda
Important: Print at least two copies of your eVisa approval letter. You must present this document to immigration officers upon arrival in Uganda.
Learn more about downloading and printing your eVisa.
Step 9: Arrive in Uganda
When you arrive at your port of entry in Uganda (Entebbe International Airport or land border), present the following documents to immigration officers:
- Your valid passport
- Your printed eVisa approval letter
- Your yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Your return flight ticket
The immigration officer will scan the barcode on your approval letter, verify your documents, and stamp the actual visa into your passport. This process usually takes just a few minutes.
Important Tips for a Successful Application
Apply Early
Submit your application at least 2 weeks before your travel date to avoid last-minute stress and allow time for any issues to be resolved.
Double-Check Information
Ensure all details match your passport exactly. Even minor spelling errors can lead to rejection or entry problems.
Use Clear Documents
Upload high-quality, clear scans of your documents. Blurry or unclear images are a common reason for application delays.
Keep Copies
Save digital and printed copies of your eVisa approval letter, application ID, and all supporting documents.
Check Eligibility
Verify that your nationality is eligible for an eVisa before starting your application.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Learn about common application mistakes and how to avoid them for a smooth process.
What Happens After You Submit Your Application?
After submitting your Uganda eVisa application and payment, the following process takes place:
1. Application Confirmation
You'll immediately receive an email confirming that your application has been submitted successfully. This email will include your Application ID number, which you'll use to track your application status.
2. Payment Confirmation
A separate email will confirm that your payment has been received. Keep this email for your records.
3. Immigration Review
An immigration officer will review your application and documents. They may:
- Approve your application immediately
- Request additional documents or information
- Defer your application for further verification
4. Application Status Updates
Your application status may show as:
- Pending: Under review by immigration officers
- Deferred: Additional documentation required
- Approved: Your eVisa has been granted
- Rejected: Application denied (with reasons provided)
5. Approval Letter
Once approved, you'll receive your eVisa approval letter via email. This typically happens within 2-5 business days, though it can take longer during peak travel seasons.
Special Visa Types and Considerations
If you plan to visit Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, consider applying for the East Africa Tourist Visa. This single visa allows multiple entries to all three countries for 90 days.
Benefits:
- Visit three countries with one visa
- Cost-effective at $100 USD
- Valid for 90 days
- Multiple entries allowed
Note: You must enter through the country that issued your visa first.
If you're only passing through Uganda to reach another destination, you may need a Transit eVisa. This visa allows you to stay in Uganda for up to 72 hours.
Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Proof of onward travel
- Visa for final destination (if required)
- Yellow fever certificate
Fee: $50 USD
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Application Deferred or Pending
If your application status shows as "Deferred," it usually means additional documentation is required. Check your email for instructions from the immigration office and submit the requested documents promptly.
Payment Issues
If your payment fails or you don't receive a confirmation email:
- Check your spam/junk folder for emails
- Verify that your card has international transaction capabilities
- Try using a different payment method
- Contact your bank to ensure the transaction wasn't blocked
Document Upload Problems
If you're having trouble uploading documents:
- Ensure files are under 250KB in size
- Use JPEG, JPG, or PNG format only
- Check that images are clear and not blurry
- Try compressing files using online tools
- Use a different browser if issues persist
Application Rejected
If your application is rejected, you'll receive an email explaining the reasons. Common reasons include:
- Incomplete or incorrect information
- Invalid or expired passport
- Poor quality document scans
- Missing required documents
You can address the issues and submit a new application. Visa fees are non-refundable, so you'll need to pay again.
eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival
While Uganda offers both eVisa and visa on arrival options for eligible nationalities, applying for an eVisa in advance is highly recommended. Here's why:
| Feature | eVisa (Online) | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Application Time | 10-15 minutes online | 30-60 minutes at airport |
| Processing | 2-5 business days before travel | Immediate but with long queues |
| Convenience | Apply from anywhere | Must apply at port of entry |
| Approval Certainty | Know before you travel | Risk of rejection at border |
| Entry Speed | Fast - just verification | Slow - long immigration queues |
| Cost | $50-$100 USD | $50-$100 USD |
Learn more about the differences in our eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival comparison.
After Arriving in Uganda
Entry Process
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or any land border crossing:
- Proceed to the immigration counter
- Present your passport, printed eVisa approval letter, and yellow fever certificate
- The officer will scan your eVisa barcode
- Your visa will be stamped into your passport
- You'll be granted entry for the duration specified on your visa
Visa Validity and Stay Duration
Your Uganda eVisa validity and permitted stay depend on the type of visa:
- Single Entry Tourist eVisa: Valid for 90 days from issue date, allows stay up to 90 days
- Multiple Entry Tourist eVisa: Valid for 1 year, allows 90 days per visit
- Transit eVisa: Valid for 7 days, allows stay up to 72 hours
- East Africa Tourist Visa: Valid for 90 days, allows multiple entries to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda
Extending Your Stay
If you need to stay longer than your visa allows, you can apply for a visa extension at the Uganda Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control in Kampala. You must apply before your current visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.
Overstay Penalties
Important: Overstaying your visa in Uganda can result in:
- Fines of $30 USD per day of overstay
- Deportation from Uganda
- Ban on future entry to Uganda
- Difficulties obtaining visas for other countries
Always ensure you leave Uganda before your visa expires or apply for an extension in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The standard processing time for a Uganda eVisa is 2-5 business days. However, during peak travel seasons, it may take up to 7-10 days. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your planned travel date to allow sufficient time for processing and any potential delays.
No, the eVisa must be applied for and approved before you travel to Uganda. If you're already in Uganda and need to extend your stay, you must visit the immigration office in Kampala to apply for a visa extension.
If you notice an error after submitting your application, contact the Uganda immigration office immediately through the eVisa portal. Minor errors may be correctable, but significant mistakes may require you to submit a new application. Always double-check your information before submitting to avoid this issue.
Yes, children under 18 who have their own passports must have their own eVisas. However, if a child is included on a parent's or guardian's passport, they can be included on that person's visa. Each child traveling with their own passport requires a separate application and visa fee.
No, you cannot enter Uganda before the entry date specified on your approved eVisa. Make sure to enter the correct intended arrival date when completing your application. If your travel plans change, you may need to apply for a new eVisa.
Need Help With Your Application?
If you encounter any difficulties during the application process or have questions about your Uganda eVisa, support is available.
Application Support
Get assistance with completing your eVisa application form and uploading documents.
Get SupportCommon Mistakes
Learn about frequent errors and how to avoid them in your application.
Avoid MistakesReady to Apply for Your Uganda eVisa?
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