Kampala Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Travelers visiting Kampala, Uganda must navigate specific entry requirements set by the Uganda Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC). Most visitors require a visa, which can often be obtained online prior to travel. Upon arrival, all travelers must present a valid passport, visa (if required), and may be asked to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay. The immigration process at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is generally straightforward, but travelers should be prepared for potential questions regarding the purpose of their visit and accommodation details. It is important to ensure all documents are in order before arrival, as entry is at the discretion of the immigration officer. Uganda offers several visa options, including the popular East African Tourist Visa, which allows travel within Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and with at least two blank pages. Yellow fever vaccination certification is a mandatory health requirement for all travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, and it is frequently checked upon entry. Travelers should be aware that immigration and customs regulations are strictly enforced. Before traveling, it is essential to verify the latest requirements, as policies can change. Registering with your home country's embassy or consulate in Kampala is recommended for safety updates. While English is widely spoken, having your documents organized and easily accessible will streamline the entry process. Be prepared for potential delays during peak travel seasons.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Uganda's visa policy requires most foreign nationals to obtain authorization prior to or upon arrival. The primary method is the electronic visa (eVisa). Some nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visas on arrival.

Visa-Free Entry

Typically 90 days

Citizens of specific East African Community (EAC) member states do not require a visa for tourism.

Includes

Kenya Rwanda South Sudan Tanzania Burundi

Must travel on a national passport. Entry is for tourism purposes only; other activities require appropriate permits.

Electronic Travel Authorization (e-Visa)

Single or multiple entry, typically valid for 90 days from date of issue.

The primary method for most tourists. An application must be submitted online before travel.

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia Germany France China India South Africa

How to Apply: Apply via the official Uganda e-Visa portal. Requires a digital passport photo, passport bio page scan, and travel itinerary. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days.
Cost: Approximately $50 for single entry, $100 for multiple entry (East African Tourist Visa).

The approved e-Visa must be printed and presented upon arrival. The East African Tourist Visa allows multiple entries between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type

Nationalities not eligible for e-Visa or visa-free entry must apply for a traditional visa at a Ugandan diplomatic mission.

How to Apply: Apply in person at the nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate. Requires application form, passport, photos, invitation letter or itinerary, and fee.

This category includes a smaller number of nationalities. Processing times at embassies can be longer.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), travelers will proceed through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. The process is generally efficient but can be busy.

Primary Inspection

Present your passport, printed e-Visa (or receive a visa on arrival if eligible), completed disembarkation card, and yellow fever certificate. The officer will ask about your visit purpose, duration, and accommodation.

Biometrics

Fingerprints and a digital photograph will be taken at the immigration counter.

Baggage Claim & Customs

Collect luggage and proceed through the green (nothing to declare) or red (goods to declare) customs channel. Your baggage may be scanned or inspected.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date and have 2 blank pages.

Visa

Printed e-Visa approval letter or valid visa in passport.

Yellow Fever Certificate

Required for all travelers arriving from yellow fever endemic countries. Often checked rigorously.

Proof of Onward Travel

Return or onward ticket may be requested.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

May be asked to show evidence of funds for your stay (cash, credit cards).

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents (passport, visa, yellow fever card) ready in your hand before reaching the immigration officer.

Answer questions clearly, politely, and consistently with your visa application.

Fill out the disembarkation card on the plane to save time.

Keep your visa and entry stamp receipt safe, as you may need them for hotel check-ins or when departing.

Customs & Duty-Free

Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforces customs regulations. Declare all items above your duty-free allowance and any restricted goods.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or wine

Traveler must be 18 years or older.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 225g of tobacco

Traveler must be 18 years or older.

Currency

USD 10,000 or equivalent

Amounts exceeding USD 10,000 must be declared upon arrival and departure.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to a reasonable value for personal use.

Commercial goods or high-value items may be subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs - illegal
Counterfeit goods - illegal
Pornographic materials - illegal
Firearms and ammunition without prior permit - security risk

Restricted Items

Medications - Must be in original containers, with a prescription for controlled substances.
Plants, seeds, and soil - Require a phytosanitary certificate from country of origin.
Animal products - Require veterinary health certificate.
Drones - Require prior approval from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA).

Health Requirements

Health requirements are strictly enforced to protect public health.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever (certificate required for travelers from endemic regions)

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Meningitis
Rabies
Polio (booster)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis
Cholera (for high-risk areas)
COVID-19 (check latest status)

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended. Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation. Hospitals in Kampala often require upfront payment.

Current Health Requirements: Check the latest COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements from the Uganda Ministry of Health. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all travelers.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Kampala.

Check your government's travel advisory website for registration details and emergency contact information.

Immigration Authority

Uganda Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC)

For official visa and immigration information: http://www.immigration.go.ug

Emergency

Emergency services number

Police: 999/112, Ambulance: 911/112, Fire: 999/112

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors may need additional documentation. A recommendation is to carry the child's birth certificate and, if traveling with one parent or without parents, a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s). This is not always requested but can prevent delays.

Traveling with Pets

Requires an import permit from the Ugandan Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). Pets need a valid veterinary health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination within the last year. Advance planning is essential.

Extended Stays

For stays longer than a tourist visa allows, you must apply for an extension at the DCIC headquarters in Kampala before your current visa expires. Overstaying results in daily fines and potential difficulties exiting the country. Long-term stays require appropriate permits (e.g., work permit, student pass).

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