What is the Uganda Transit eVisa?
The Uganda Transit eVisa is a specialized electronic visa designed for travelers who are passing through Uganda on their way to another destination. This visa allows you to stay in Uganda for a maximum of 72 hours (3 days) while in transit to your final destination.
If you're traveling through Uganda's Entebbe International Airport or crossing Uganda by land to reach another country, the Transit eVisa is the appropriate visa type for your journey. It's a convenient, cost-effective solution for short stopovers in Uganda.
The Transit eVisa is part of Uganda's electronic visa system, which was introduced on July 1, 2016, to streamline the visa application process and make it more accessible for international travelers.
Who Needs a Uganda Transit eVisa?
Travelers with connecting flights through Entebbe International Airport who need to leave the airport transit area or stay overnight in Uganda.
- Layovers exceeding a few hours
- Overnight stays between flights
- Exploring Kampala during transit
Travelers crossing Uganda by road to reach neighboring countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, or South Sudan.
- Road trips through East Africa
- Bus or vehicle transit
- Cross-border travel routes
Uganda Transit eVisa Requirements
To successfully apply for a Uganda Transit eVisa, you must prepare the following documents and meet these requirements:
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Uganda with at least 2 blank pages.
Passport Photo
A recent passport-sized photograph with a white background, meeting international standards.
Flight Itinerary
Proof of onward travel showing your connecting flight or travel to your final destination.
Yellow Fever Certificate
Mandatory vaccination certificate for all travelers over 1 year of age entering Uganda.
How to Apply for Uganda Transit eVisa
The application process for the Uganda Transit eVisa is simple and can be completed entirely online in just a few steps:
Step 1: Complete Online Form
Visit the official Uganda eVisa website and fill out the online application form. Select "Transit Visa" as your visa type and provide accurate personal and passport information.
Step 2: Upload Documents
Upload the required documents including your passport bio-data page, passport photo, flight itinerary, and yellow fever vaccination certificate. Ensure all files are under 250KB.
Step 3: Pay Visa Fee
Pay the Transit eVisa fee of $50 USD using a credit or debit card. The payment is processed securely through the official portal.
Step 4: Receive Approval
After 2-3 business days, you'll receive your eVisa approval letter via email. Print this letter and present it upon arrival in Uganda.
Transit eVisa Validity and Duration
Maximum Stay Period
The Uganda Transit eVisa allows you to stay in Uganda for a maximum of 72 hours (3 days). This period begins from the moment you enter Uganda and must include your departure from the country.
Validity Period
The Transit eVisa is typically valid for 7 days from the date of issue, giving you flexibility in your travel dates. However, once you enter Uganda, you must depart within 72 hours.
Single Entry Only
The Transit eVisa is a single-entry visa, meaning you can only enter Uganda once with this visa. If you need to re-enter Uganda, you would need to apply for a new visa.
Important Note
The Transit eVisa cannot be extended. If you plan to stay in Uganda for longer than 72 hours or wish to engage in tourism activities, you should apply for a Tourist eVisa instead.
Transit eVisa Fees and Processing Time
| Service | Details | Cost/Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Transit eVisa Fee | Government visa fee for transit through Uganda | $50 USD |
| Processing Fee | Online application processing charge | $1.50 USD |
| Standard Processing | Regular processing time for most applications | 2-3 business days |
| Maximum Stay | Duration allowed in Uganda with Transit eVisa | 72 hours (3 days) |
| Validity Period | Time frame to enter Uganda after approval | 7 days from issue |
Note: All fees are non-refundable. Processing times may vary during peak seasons.
Transit eVisa vs. Tourist eVisa: Which Do You Need?
Understanding the difference between these visa types will help you choose the right one for your travel needs:
Best for:
- Passing through Uganda to another country
- Short layovers at Entebbe Airport
- Stays of 72 hours or less
- No tourism activities planned
Cost: $50 USD
Duration: Up to 72 hours
Validity: 7 days
Best for:
- Tourism and sightseeing in Uganda
- Visiting friends and family
- Stays longer than 72 hours
- Exploring Uganda's attractions
Cost: $50 USD
Duration: Up to 90 days
Validity: 90 days
Important: If you're unsure about your travel plans or might want to explore Uganda, it's safer to apply for a Tourist eVisa as the Transit eVisa cannot be extended or converted.
Where Can You Enter Uganda with a Transit eVisa?
The Uganda Transit eVisa is accepted at all official ports of entry into Uganda, including:
Air Entry
- Entebbe International Airport - Uganda's main international airport, located near Kampala
Land Border Crossings
- Busia Border - Kenya-Uganda border crossing
- Malaba Border - Kenya-Uganda border crossing
- Gatuna/Katuna Border - Rwanda-Uganda border crossing
- Mutukula Border - Tanzania-Uganda border crossing
- Elegu Border - South Sudan-Uganda border crossing
- Bunagana Border - Democratic Republic of Congo-Uganda border crossing
Important: Upon arrival, you must present your printed eVisa approval letter along with your valid passport and yellow fever vaccination certificate to immigration officers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda Transit eVisa
Yes, the Uganda Transit eVisa allows you to leave the airport and stay in Uganda for up to 72 hours. This is perfect if you have a long layover and want to explore Kampala or rest at a hotel before your connecting flight.
No, the Transit eVisa cannot be extended. If you think you might need more than 72 hours in Uganda, you should apply for a Tourist eVisa instead, which allows stays of up to 90 days.
Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all travelers entering Uganda, including those with a Transit eVisa. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before travel and is valid for life according to WHO guidelines.
The standard processing time for a Uganda Transit eVisa is 2-3 business days. However, it's recommended to apply at least 5-7 days before your travel date to allow for any potential delays or additional document requests.
Overstaying your Transit eVisa can result in serious penalties, including fines of $30 per day, deportation, and potential bans on future entry to Uganda. Always ensure you depart Uganda within the 72-hour limit or apply for the appropriate visa type if you need more time.
While visa on arrival is available for some nationalities, it's highly recommended to apply online in advance. This ensures faster entry, avoids long queues at immigration, and guarantees approval before you travel.
Important Tips for Transit Travelers
Apply Early
Submit your Transit eVisa application at least 5-7 days before travel to avoid last-minute issues.
Print Your eVisa
Always carry a printed copy of your eVisa approval letter, even if you have it on your phone.
Check Passport Validity
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in Uganda.
Track Your Time
Keep track of your 72-hour limit and plan your departure accordingly to avoid overstay penalties.
Ready to Apply for Your Uganda Transit eVisa?
Get your Transit eVisa approved in 2-3 business days and travel through Uganda with confidence.
Start Your Transit eVisa Application