Planning a trip to Uganda — whether for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, or a classic safari in Murchison Falls — begins with one essential step: sorting out your visa. Uganda has one of Africa’s most streamlined visa systems, with an entirely online application process that most travellers can complete in minutes. But 2026 brought significant changes, including a new visa-free entry policy for dozens of countries and updated fee structures. This guide covers everything you need to know before you fly.
The Big Change in 2026: Visa-Free Entry for 40 Countries
The most significant development in Uganda’s immigration policy this year is the introduction of visa-free entry for nationals of 40 countries, allowing stays of up to three months for tourism or business purposes. The policy is part of Uganda’s broader effort to promote regional integration, tourism growth, and cross-border trade.
Who Qualifies for Visa-Free Entry?
Nationals of the following African countries may now enter Uganda visa-free: Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Seychelles, Mauritius, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Comoros, Eritrea, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Eswatini.
Several non-African countries and territories have also been granted visa-free access, including Ireland, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Cyprus, Fiji, Grenada, Malaysia, Malta, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, and Hong Kong SAR.
Who Still Needs a Visa?
United States, European Union, and United Kingdom nationals remain subject to visa requirements. The policy shift follows recent changes in US immigration measures affecting Ugandan travellers, which took effect January 21, 2026.
Travellers from all other countries not listed must continue to apply for a visa and obtain approval before entering Uganda.
Types of Uganda Visas and Fees in 2026
Uganda offers several visa categories to suit different travel purposes. Here is the complete breakdown of fees for 2026.
Single-Entry Tourist Visa (Ordinary Visa)
The standard single-entry visa is the most common option for tourists, business travellers, and family visitors. It costs USD $50 and is valid for 90 days from the date of approval or issuance. Once the 90-day window closes, travellers must begin the application process again from scratch.
This visa covers tourism, business engagements, family visits, and other personal trips. It permits a single entry into Uganda.
Multiple-Entry Visa
For travellers who need to enter Uganda more than once, the multiple-entry visa is available in two durations:
-
6-month multiple-entry visa: USD $100
-
24-month multiple-entry visa: USD $200
A multiple-entry visa requires documented justification and police clearance certificates.
East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV)
The East Africa Tourist Visa is a regional visa that allows travel across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda under a single permit. It is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and allows multiple entries among the three participating states for tourism purposes.
The flat fee is USD $100. A critical rule to remember: you must first enter the East African region through the country that issued the visa. If you apply through Uganda’s immigration portal, Uganda must be your first port of entry.
The EATV does not cover travel to Tanzania, Burundi, or South Sudan.
Transit Visa
Travellers passing through Uganda on their way to another destination can apply for a transit visa, which costs USD $50 and is valid for 7 days. The transit visa does not permit tourism or extended visits.
Note: Passengers who remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 48 hours may not need a transit visa.
Visa Fee Summary Table
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Validity | Entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Entry Tourist Visa | $50 | 90 days | Single |
| Multiple-Entry Visa (6 months) | $100 | 6 months | Multiple |
| Multiple-Entry Visa (24 months) | $200 | 24 months | Multiple |
| East Africa Tourist Visa | $100 | 90 days | Multiple (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda) |
| Transit Visa | $50 | 7 days | Single |
Fees are payable by credit card, with a 3% commission applied by the processing system.
The Application Process: Step by Step
All visa applications are processed online through the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit Application System at https://visas.immigration.go.ug.
Step 1: Choose Your Application Type
Select the visa category (Ordinary, Multiple-Entry, Diplomatic and Official, Transit, or East Africa Tourist Visa) and the appropriate subcategory (single-entry, multiple-entry for 6–12 months, 12–24 months, or 24–36 months).
Step 2: Fill the Electronic Form
Complete the online application form with your personal details, passport information, travel dates, and purpose of visit.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
You will need to upload electronic copies of the following:
-
A recent passport-sized photograph
-
Copy of your passport bio-data page (valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry)
-
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
-
Proof of hotel accommodation booked within Uganda, or evidence confirming the status of whoever will be hosting you during your stay
-
Recommendation letter or police clearance (depending on visa type)
All documents must be submitted in English, regardless of your country of origin or the language of your home country’s official records.
Step 4: Submit and Pay
Submit your application and pay the applicable fee by credit card. The system applies a 3% commission on all payments.
Step 5: Receive Your Travel Authorization
Upon submission, you will receive a notification with an application number to track your application. If approved, an approval letter will be sent as an attachment to the email you provided. This letter serves as your travel authorization. Print it out and present it together with your valid passport at the port of entry.
Important: The travel authorization does not guarantee entry into Uganda. Travellers will be subjected to secondary verification where necessary before a visa can be placed in the passport.
Processing Time
All visas, permits, and passes are approved within 2 to 3 working days, except in special circumstances where more documents or verification may be required. Applicants are advised to apply at least 5 working days before travel.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory for All Travellers
Yellow fever vaccination is compulsory for all travellers entering Uganda from the age of one year. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days prior to arrival by an official yellow fever vaccination centre and must be registered in an International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis (the “yellow card”).
Note: Uganda requires a valid Yellow Fever Certificate from all travellers regardless of country of origin, not only those arriving from endemic countries.
You will need to upload a copy of your yellow fever certificate as part of your online visa application.
Other Entry Requirements and Health Considerations
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Uganda. For tourist travel, the remaining validity of the passport must be at least 1 month, while for residence purposes it must be at least 3 months.
Health Declaration
Due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak, Uganda’s Ministry of Health has introduced a mandatory health declaration for all persons entering and exiting the country.
Malaria Prevention
Malaria risk is high in the entire country. Travellers are advised to use mosquito repellent measures and take preventive malaria tablets. If you develop a fever during or after your journey, get tested for malaria as soon as possible.
Other Health Risks
Other health considerations include tick-borne diseases, rabies, schistosomiasis (from swimming in lakes and rivers), and altitude sickness in areas above 2,500 metres. Hepatitis A and polio vaccinations are recommended for all travellers.
Tips for a Smooth Visa Application
Apply at least 5 working days before travel to allow for processing.
Ensure all documents are in English. This is a strict requirement and non-compliance can delay or derail your application.
Have your yellow fever certificate ready. You cannot complete the application without it.
Book accommodation before applying. You will need proof of hotel booking or host details as part of the application.
Print your approval letter. You will need to present it at the port of entry along with your passport.
Check your eligibility for visa-free entry. If you hold a passport from one of the 40 visa-free countries, you may not need a visa at all.
Consider the East Africa Tourist Visa if you plan to visit Kenya or Rwanda in addition to Uganda. At $100 for 90 days across three countries, it offers excellent value for multi-destination trips.
The Bottom Line
Uganda’s visa system is straightforward, entirely online, and relatively affordable compared to many African destinations. The 2026 visa-free policy for 40 countries makes travel to the Pearl of Africa easier than ever for many nationalities, while the standard $50 single-entry visa remains accessible for everyone else.
The key requirements are simple: a passport valid for at least 6 months, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, proof of accommodation, and an approved e-visa (unless you qualify for visa-free entry). Apply online, pay the fee, print your approval letter, and you are ready to go.
Ready to start planning your Uganda adventure? Contact TravelGiantUganda.com for assistance with your itinerary, permits, and travel logistics. We can help you navigate the visa process and ensure your trip to the Pearl of Africa gets off to a smooth start.
