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Get Your Uganda Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for gorilla trekking, safaris, and breathtaking wildlife adventures
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Uganda Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 24-72 hours
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and intended activities. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Uganda's immigration requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists review every document against Uganda Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Uganda Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted directly to Uganda's official eVisa portal. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa by email
Your approved Uganda eVisa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Ugandan immigration along with your passport. Karibu Uganda — welcome to the Pearl of Africa!
Visa types needed for Uganda
Uganda Tourist eVisa - 180 days, Single entry
The Uganda Tourist eVisa provides access to gorilla trekking in Bwindi, tree-climbing lions, and the Nile source. Valid for 6 Months with single entry, this visa allows stays up to 90 days. Perfect for tourism and leisure.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
Uganda Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Single entry for gorilla trekking and safari tourism
East Africa Visa
Up to 90 days
Multi-country access to Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda
Transit Visa
Up to 7 days
For travelers passing through Uganda
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel or safari lodge booking confirmation
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Transit Visas
Uganda operates a comprehensive electronic visa system that welcomes visitors from around the world to experience Africa's premier wildlife destination. The Uganda eVisa program has streamlined entry for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers seeking to explore the Pearl of Africa.
Tourist Visa — Single Entry
The standard Uganda tourist visa allows a single entry with stays up to 90 days — perfect for gorilla trekking expeditions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring the source of the Nile in Jinja, and discovering Kampala's vibrant culture. This visa type suits most leisure travelers visiting Uganda. You can engage in tourism activities, visit friends and family, and attend non-commercial events.
Transit Visa
For travelers connecting through Entebbe International Airport en route to other destinations, Uganda offers a transit visa allowing stays up to 7 days. This is ideal for passengers who want to exit the airport during layovers to explore Kampala, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, or rest at a hotel before continuing their journey.
East Africa & Business Visas
East Africa Tourist Visa
One of the most valuable visa options for regional travelers, the East Africa Tourist Visa allows multiple entries across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with a single visa application. Valid for 90 days, this visa is perfect for travelers planning an extended East African adventure — track mountain gorillas in Uganda's Bwindi and Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, witness the Great Migration in Kenya's Masai Mara, and explore all three countries without additional visa applications. The visa costs the same as individual country visas but provides far greater flexibility.
Business Visa
The Uganda business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the country. This includes attending business meetings, trade fairs, and conferences; exploring investment opportunities; establishing trade contacts; conducting market research; and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and can be issued for single or multiple entries. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from a Ugandan company, your company's registration documents, and a detailed business itinerary.
Entry Requirements
Essential Requirements
All Uganda visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Required for all travelers entering Uganda, regardless of country of origin. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival and you must present your International Certificate of Vaccination at immigration.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, safari lodge reservations, or invitation letter if staying with friends/family
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Uganda
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay (bank statements recommended)
Gorilla Permit Requirements
If planning to trek mountain gorillas, you need a gorilla permit ($700 USD for foreign non-residents) booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Permits are limited daily, so booking 2-4 months ahead is recommended during peak season.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Uganda eVisas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) — the main gateway, modern and efficient, located 40km from Kampala
• Land borders: Busia and Malaba (Kenya), Katuna and Cyanika (Rwanda), Mutukula (Tanzania), and multiple crossings with DRC and South Sudan
• Lake crossings: Ferry services on Lake Victoria between Uganda and Tanzania/Kenya
Processing Times & Application Timing
Uganda eVisa processing typically takes 2-5 business days, with many applications approved within 48-72 hours. During peak gorilla trekking season (June-September, December-February) and around major conferences in Kampala, processing may take slightly longer. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests. Having your visa pre-approved ensures the smoothest entry experience at Entebbe Airport.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.5Customer rating
98%Approval rate
"Got my Uganda visa in just 2 days! The process was incredibly smooth and the support team answered all my questions about gorilla permits. Highly recommend!"
"First time visiting Africa and was nervous about the visa process. DoVisa made it completely stress-free. Now planning my Bwindi gorilla trekking adventure!"
"Applied on Monday, approved by Wednesday. The document checklist was super helpful and immigration at Entebbe was smooth with my printed visa."
"Great service overall. Processing took 3 days and customer support kept me updated throughout. The gorillas were absolutely incredible!"
"Safari trip of a lifetime! The visa application was the easiest part of planning. DoVisa handled everything perfectly and I had my approval quickly."
"Family of 4 all needed visas for our Uganda safari. DoVisa processed all applications together and everyone was approved on the same day. Brilliant service!"
"Applied for the East Africa Tourist Visa for Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. One application for three countries — so convenient! Saw gorillas in both countries."
"Business visa for a conference in Kampala sorted quickly. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Professional service throughout."
"Used DoVisa for my solo trip to track chimps in Kibale Forest. Visa arrived in 48 hours and the whole experience exceeded expectations. Thank you!"
"Good experience with the visa application. Yellow fever certificate requirements were clearly explained. Would definitely use again for future trips."
Uganda Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Uganda?
Uganda offers several visa categories through its electronic visa system. Single-entry tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for safaris, gorilla trekking, visiting family, and general tourism. Transit visa permits stays up to 7 days for travelers passing through Uganda to another destination. East Africa Tourist Visa is a regional visa allowing travel across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with one application — ideal for combined safari experiences. Business visa caters to commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and trade exploration. Multiple-entry visas are available for frequent travelers requiring regular access to Uganda. The right visa depends on your travel purpose and whether you plan to visit neighboring countries.
What is the East Africa Tourist Visa and how does it work?
The East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) is a joint visa allowing tourism across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with a single application. Valid for 90 days with multiple entries between the three countries, it costs approximately $100 USD — the same as individual Uganda and Kenya tourist visas combined. Benefits: Visit all three countries without separate applications; cross borders freely during your trip; perfect for combined experiences like gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda followed by the Masai Mara in Kenya. Ideal for: Travelers planning multi-country East African adventures and safari enthusiasts wanting to see different wildlife regions. Application: Apply through Uganda's eVisa portal specifying EATV; it must be your first entry point into the region.
How long does Uganda visa processing take?
Uganda eVisa processing typically takes 2-5 business days, with most applications receiving decisions within 48-72 hours. Processing times can vary based on several factors: Peak seasons (June-September for gorilla trekking, December-February for dry season, and around major holidays) may experience slightly longer processing. Application completeness significantly impacts speed — applications with clear documents, correct photos, and accurate information process faster. Business visas may take longer due to additional verification of invitation letters and business documentation. Recommendations: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any additional information requests.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Uganda?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Uganda, regardless of which country you are arriving from. This is one of the strictest yellow fever requirements in Africa. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) at immigration. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Important: Without a valid yellow fever certificate, you may be denied entry or vaccinated at the airport at additional cost and inconvenience. The vaccine provides lifetime protection and is essential not just for Uganda entry but also because yellow fever is present in the country. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure to get vaccinated.
What documents do I need for a Uganda visa application?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum two blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months); completed application form with accurate travel details. Additional requirements: Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, safari lodge confirmations, or invitation letter); round-trip flight itinerary showing entry and exit dates; travel insurance recommended. Business visa extras: Invitation letter from a Ugandan company on official letterhead, employer support letter, company registration documents. All applicants: Yellow fever vaccination certificate; may be asked for proof of sufficient funds (bank statements). Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
Can I extend my Uganda visa once I arrive?
Yes, Uganda tourist visas can be extended for an additional period beyond your initial stay. Where to apply: Immigration Headquarters in Kampala or regional immigration offices. Requirements: Valid passport with remaining pages, completed application form, passport photographs, proof of sufficient funds for extended stay, accommodation confirmation, and the extension fee. Process: Applications are typically processed within a few days; you may receive a letter permit while waiting. Important: Apply before your current visa expires — overstaying is a serious offense with fines and potential future entry restrictions. Extensions are discretionary and may be denied. If you know you need more than 90 days, consider applying for a longer-term visa category from the outset.
What is the best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking?
Uganda offers gorilla trekking year-round, but conditions vary by season. Best times (dry seasons): June-September and December-February offer the most pleasant trekking conditions with minimal rain, drier forest trails, and clearer visibility. These are peak seasons with highest permit demand — book 2-4 months in advance. Shoulder seasons: March-May and October-November see more rain, making trails muddy and slippery, but also fewer tourists and potentially easier permit availability. Gorillas can be trekked in any weather. Important: Gorilla permits cost $700 USD per person for foreign non-residents; only a limited number issued daily. Beyond gorillas: Chimp trekking in Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth safaris, and Murchison Falls are enjoyable year-round with dry seasons being optimal.
Is Uganda safe for tourists?
Uganda is generally safe for tourists in established tourism areas, with the government placing high priority on visitor security. Safe areas: Kampala (tourist areas), Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Jinja, and Lake Bunyonyi. These areas have good security and dedicated tourism police. Areas of concern: Border regions with DRC and South Sudan have elevated security advisories. Most governments recommend avoiding non-essential travel to these areas. Practical advice: Use reputable tour operators and guides; register with your embassy; avoid demonstrations; keep valuables secure; follow local news and guidance. Wildlife safety: National parks are well-managed with professional rangers. Gorilla trekking follows strict safety protocols. Health: Malaria prophylaxis essential; drink bottled water; ensure routine vaccinations are current.
What currency should I bring to Uganda and can I use cards?
Uganda's official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), but US Dollars are widely accepted in tourism areas. Cash recommendations: Bring US Dollars for major expenses (gorilla permits must be paid in USD, many lodges quote in USD). Ensure bills are post-2006 series and in excellent condition — older or damaged notes may be rejected. Ugandan Shillings: Needed for local restaurants, markets, transportation, and small purchases. Exchange at banks or forex bureaus for best rates. Card acceptance: Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at upscale hotels, lodges, and some restaurants in Kampala. Safari lodges in remote areas often require cash. ATMs: Available in Kampala, Entebbe, and larger towns; international cards generally work. Tipping: Gorilla trackers and rangers appreciate tips ($10-20 USD); lodge staff tipping is customary.
Do children need their own Uganda visa?
Yes, every traveler including children and infants requires their own Uganda visa. There are no family visas or provisions for children on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; completed application with child's details. Additional documentation: If traveling with only one parent or without parents, carry consent documentation from the absent parent(s), birth certificate, and custody documents if applicable. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own. Fees: Children pay the same visa fees as adults. Gorilla trekking age limit: Children under 15 are not permitted to trek gorillas. Family-friendly activities include chimp habituation experiences with age restrictions and safari game drives.
What happens if my Uganda visa application is rejected?
Uganda visa rejections are relatively uncommon (under 3% of applications) but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete or unclear documentation; passport validity issues; photos not meeting specifications; missing yellow fever certificate; previous immigration violations; concerns about purpose of visit; insufficient financial evidence. If rejected: You'll receive notification that the application was unsuccessful — Uganda immigration typically doesn't provide detailed reasons. You can reapply immediately with improved documentation addressing potential issues. Prevention: Ensure documents are complete and clear; verify passport validity; provide comprehensive travel plans; include yellow fever certificate; show proof of funds. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
Can I work in Uganda with a tourist visa?
No, Uganda tourist and business visas do not permit employment. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities: sightseeing, safaris, gorilla trekking, visiting friends and family, and attending non-commercial events. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings, conferences, market research, and establishing trade contacts, but not paid employment or receiving salary from a Ugandan employer. Legal employment requires a Uganda Work Permit, which involves employer sponsorship, proof the position cannot be filled locally, and approval from the immigration directorate. Volunteer work: Genuine volunteer activities with registered NGOs may be permitted but require special authorization. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans. Uganda immigration conducts checks, particularly in education and hospitality sectors.
Can I use my Uganda visa to visit other African countries?
A standard Uganda visa is only valid for Uganda — you cannot use it to enter other African countries. However, several options exist for multi-country travel. East Africa Tourist Visa: Covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with one application. Apply through Uganda if it's your first entry point. Separate visas: Most African countries require their own visas — Tanzania, Ethiopia, South Africa, and others have independent visa systems. Practical planning: If visiting multiple East African countries, the EATV offers the best value and convenience. For other combinations, research each country's requirements separately. Border crossings: Uganda has land borders with Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, DRC, and South Sudan — each crossing requires appropriate visa documentation for the destination country.
What are the top places to visit in Uganda?
Uganda offers remarkable diversity as the Pearl of Africa. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Home to half the world's mountain gorillas — the ultimate wildlife experience. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Tree-climbing lions, boat safaris on Kazinga Channel, diverse ecosystems from savanna to forest. Murchison Falls National Park: Dramatic waterfall where the Nile forces through a 7-meter gap; excellent big game viewing. Kibale Forest: World's highest concentration of primates including chimpanzees — best chimp tracking in Africa. Jinja: Source of the Nile, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, adventure capital of East Africa. Lake Bunyonyi: Stunning crater lake with terraced hillsides, perfect for relaxation. Kampala: Vibrant capital with markets, nightlife, and the Uganda Museum. Rwenzori Mountains: Snow-capped peaks on the equator for serious trekkers.
Do I need to print my Uganda eVisa?
Yes, you should print your Uganda eVisa approval letter on A4 paper and carry it when traveling. At immigration: Present the printed eVisa along with your passport and yellow fever certificate to the immigration officer at Entebbe Airport or any border crossing. While Uganda has digital systems, having a physical copy ensures smooth processing. Quality: Print clearly in color or black and white; ensure any barcode or QR code is legible. Digital backup: Save a copy on your phone as additional backup, but don't rely solely on digital versions. Multiple copies: Consider printing 2-3 copies in case one is retained or damaged. The visa is verified in the immigration database, so a clear print showing your details and approval status is typically sufficient.
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