Kampala Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, welcomes international travelers through Entebbe International Airport, located approximately 40 kilometers from the city center. Uganda has modernized its immigration system in recent years, introducing an electronic visa system that has streamlined the entry process for most visitors. The country operates a relatively open visa policy, with options for visa-free entry for certain East African Community members, e-visa applications for most nationalities, and visa-on-arrival services available at major entry points. The immigration process at Entebbe International Airport is generally straightforward, though travelers should expect standard security checks and document verification. Processing times can vary depending on arrival times and flight volumes, but most visitors clear immigration within 30-60 minutes. It's essential to have all required documentation readily available, including proof of yellow fever vaccination, which is mandatory for all travelers entering Uganda. Before traveling to Kampala, visitors should ensure their passport has at least six months validity from the date of entry and contains blank pages for entry stamps. It's highly recommended to apply for an e-visa before departure rather than relying on visa-on-arrival services, as this can significantly reduce waiting times at immigration. Travelers should also be prepared to show proof of accommodation, return or onward tickets, and sufficient funds for their stay.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Uganda's visa policy varies based on nationality and purpose of visit. The country has implemented an electronic visa system that allows most travelers to obtain authorization before arrival, though some nationalities enjoy visa-free access and others can obtain visas on arrival.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 6 months

Citizens of East African Community member states can enter Uganda without a visa

Includes

Must possess a valid national ID or passport. This applies to citizens of EAC member states only. All other nationalities require a visa.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Single entry: up to 90 days; Multiple entry: up to 90 days per visit within 6 months; East Africa Tourist Visa: 90 days across Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda

Most international travelers can apply for an electronic visa online before traveling to Uganda

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Most EU countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, etc.) Ireland Switzerland Norway Japan South Korea China India Brazil South Africa and most other nationalities

How to Apply: Apply online at https://visas.immigration.go.ug at least 3-5 business days before travel. Upload required documents including passport bio page, passport photo, and yellow fever certificate. Processing typically takes 2-3 business days but can take up to 10 days.
Cost: Single entry tourist visa: USD $50; Multiple entry visa: USD $100; East Africa Tourist Visa: USD $100; Transit visa (7 days): USD $50

Print the e-visa approval and present it at immigration upon arrival. Payment is made online via credit card. The e-visa must be obtained before travel, though visa-on-arrival is technically available, e-visa is strongly recommended to avoid delays.

Visa on Arrival

Up to 90 days

Available for most nationalities at Entebbe International Airport and major land borders, though e-visa is strongly recommended

How to Apply: Complete application form at immigration desk, provide passport photos, yellow fever certificate, and supporting documents. Payment accepted in USD cash (exact amount preferred).

While available, this option can result in long waiting times, especially during peak travel periods. E-visa application before travel is highly recommended. Some nationalities are not eligible for visa on arrival and must obtain visa in advance from Ugandan embassy.

Embassy Visa Required

Varies by visa type

A small number of nationalities must obtain visa from Ugandan embassy or high commission before travel

How to Apply: Contact nearest Ugandan embassy or high commission. Submit application with required documents including passport, photos, invitation letter or travel itinerary, and proof of funds.

This typically applies to nationals of countries with specific diplomatic considerations. Check with the Ugandan embassy in your country for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, travelers proceed through immigration control, collect baggage, pass through customs, and exit to the arrivals area. The process is generally efficient, though waiting times can vary based on flight volumes.

Disembarkation and Health Screening

Exit the aircraft and proceed to the terminal. You may encounter health screening stations where yellow fever certificates are checked. Temperature checks may be conducted depending on current health protocols.

Immigration Queue

Join the appropriate queue - separate lines typically exist for East African Community citizens, Ugandan residents, and foreign nationals. E-visa holders should look for designated counters if available.

Document Verification

Present your passport, visa (e-visa printout or visa-on-arrival application), yellow fever certificate, and any other requested documents to the immigration officer. They will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and take your photograph and fingerprints.

Entry Stamp

Once approved, your passport will be stamped with your entry date and permitted duration of stay. Verify the dates are correct before leaving the counter.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Porters are available if needed (tipping expected, usually UGX 5,000-10,000).

Customs Declaration

Pass through customs control. If you have items to declare, use the red channel; otherwise, proceed through the green channel. Customs officers may conduct random baggage inspections.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Exit to the public arrivals area where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet contacts.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay and contain at least two blank pages for stamps.

Visa Documentation

E-visa approval letter (printed copy), visa-on-arrival application, or visa sticker in passport, depending on your application method.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Mandatory for all travelers over 1 year of age. Must be valid (administered at least 10 days before arrival). This is strictly enforced and you may be denied entry or required to be vaccinated at the airport without it.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Uganda within your authorized stay period. Immigration officers may request to see this.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you will be staying in Uganda.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay. While not always requested, have this available.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Apply for your e-visa at least one week before travel to avoid last-minute complications. Keep both digital and printed copies of your approval.

Ensure your yellow fever certificate is easily accessible - you may need to show it multiple times. Laminating it can help preserve it for future trips.

Have small denomination USD bills for visa-on-arrival payment if needed, as change may not always be available. Newer bills (2013 or later) are preferred.

Be polite and patient with immigration officers. Answer questions clearly and honestly. Avoid jokes or comments about security, as these are taken seriously.

Take a photo of your passport information page and visa approval and email it to yourself as backup documentation.

Arrive at immigration with all documents organized and ready to present. This speeds up the process significantly.

If traveling for business, have invitation letters and supporting documentation readily available, even if not explicitly required.

Check your entry stamp before leaving the immigration counter to ensure the dates are correct and you've been granted the appropriate duration of stay.

Customs & Duty-Free

Uganda Customs operates at all ports of entry including Entebbe International Airport. Travelers must declare certain items and are subject to duty-free allowances. The customs process involves passing through either the green channel (nothing to declare) or red channel (goods to declare). Random inspections may be conducted regardless of which channel you use.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol above this limit is subject to duty.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. Quantities above this limit will incur duty charges.

Perfume

Half a liter of perfume and toilet water (combined)

For personal use only. Commercial quantities require declaration and duty payment.

Currency

Amounts exceeding USD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Both foreign and local currency must be declared if total exceeds threshold. Declaration is mandatory upon entry and exit. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated.

Gifts and Personal Effects

Personal effects and used items for personal use are duty-free. New goods valued up to USD $500 may be allowed duty-free at customs discretion

Items must be for personal use, not for sale or commercial purposes. Excessive quantities may be questioned and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances - strictly illegal with severe penalties including imprisonment
Counterfeit currency and goods - subject to confiscation and legal prosecution
Pornographic materials - prohibited under Ugandan law
Explosives, ammunition, and firearms without proper authorization - requires special permits from relevant authorities
Certain plants, seeds, and soil - may carry pests or diseases; agricultural restrictions apply
Endangered species products - items made from protected wildlife (ivory, certain animal skins, etc.) prohibited under CITES
Plastic carrier bags - Uganda has banned plastic bags below 30 microns thickness; avoid bringing plastic shopping bags

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring in original containers with prescriptions; quantities should be reasonable for personal use during stay; controlled substances require special documentation
Professional camera and video equipment - may require temporary import permit and deposit; clearly for professional use may need journalist accreditation
Drones and radio communication equipment - require permits from Uganda Communications Commission; cannot be used without authorization
Firearms and ammunition - require import permits from Ministry of Internal Affairs and police clearance; must be declared immediately upon arrival
Live animals and animal products - require veterinary health certificates and import permits; pets need specific documentation
Fresh food items - fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products may be restricted; check with Uganda Ministry of Agriculture
Cultural artifacts and antiques - export restrictions apply; purchase receipts required to prove items were legally acquired

Health Requirements

Uganda has specific health requirements for entry, with yellow fever vaccination being mandatory. Travelers should also take precautions against other diseases prevalent in the region and ensure they have adequate health coverage.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for all travelers over 1 year of age. Certificate must show vaccination was administered at least 10 days before arrival. This is strictly enforced; travelers without valid certificates may be vaccinated at the airport or denied entry.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food and water
Typhoid - Recommended, especially for travelers eating outside major hotels and restaurants
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Rabies - Recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or those who may come into contact with animals
Meningococcal meningitis - Recommended during outbreaks or for travelers to affected areas
Polio - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccination is current
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis - Ensure routine vaccination is current
Malaria prophylaxis - Uganda is a malaria-endemic country; antimalarial medication is strongly recommended for all travelers

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Medical facilities in Kampala are limited compared to Western standards, and serious conditions may require evacuation to Kenya or beyond. Ensure your insurance covers Uganda and includes emergency medical evacuation, which can cost USD $50,000 or more. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers readily accessible.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change based on global health situations. As of late 2024, COVID-19 vaccination is not required for entry to Uganda, and testing requirements have been lifted. However, travelers should check the latest requirements on the Uganda Ministry of Health website and with their airline before departure, as policies can be reinstated if circumstances change. Health screening may be conducted at ports of entry. Travelers showing symptoms of infectious diseases may be subject to additional screening or quarantine measures.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Uganda Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control

Official immigration authority website: https://visas.immigration.go.ug

For e-visa applications, visa inquiries, and official immigration information. Email: info@immigration.go.ug

Emergency Services

Police: 999 or 112 | Ambulance: 911 or 112 | Fire: 112

112 is the universal emergency number in Uganda. Response times may vary, especially outside Kampala city center.

Your Embassy or Consulate

Contact your country's diplomatic mission in Kampala for consular assistance

Register with your embassy upon arrival for extended stays. Most embassies are located in the Nakasero and Kololo areas of Kampala.

Entebbe International Airport

Main international airport serving Kampala. Phone: +256 414 353 000

Located approximately 40km from Kampala city center. Allow 1-2 hours for travel depending on traffic.

Uganda Ministry of Health

For current health requirements and advisories: www.health.go.ug

Check for disease outbreaks and health alerts before and during your visit.

Uganda Tourism Board

Tourism information and assistance. Phone: +256 414 342 196/7

Can provide general travel information and address tourism-related concerns.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport and visa (if applicable). Children under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) authorizing the child to travel. The letter should include contact information for the absent parent(s) and details of the trip. If one parent has sole custody, carry legal documentation proving this. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship. Yellow fever vaccination is required for children over 1 year of age. Unaccompanied minors require special documentation and airline arrangements.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Uganda require: (1) Valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival); (2) Veterinary health certificate issued within 7 days of travel by licensed veterinarian; (3) Import permit from the Commissioner of Animal Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries - apply at least 2 weeks before travel; (4) Microchip identification is recommended. Dogs and cats from rabies-endemic countries may require additional documentation or quarantine. Airlines have specific requirements for pet transport. Contact the Uganda Ministry of Agriculture for current requirements: www.agriculture.go.ug. Some breeds may be restricted.

Extended Stays and Visa Extensions

Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 90 days. To extend your stay, apply at the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control headquarters in Kampala (located on Jinja Road) at least 2 weeks before your visa expires. Requirements include: completed application form, passport, passport photos, proof of sufficient funds, letter explaining reason for extension, and extension fee (approximately USD $100-200 depending on duration). Extensions are granted at discretion of immigration authorities. For stays longer than 6 months, consider applying for a different visa category (student, work, business) which may require additional documentation. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should apply for a business visa (available as e-visa) rather than tourist visa. Required documents include: invitation letter from Ugandan company or organization on official letterhead stating purpose and duration of visit, letter from employer confirming employment and purpose of travel, and business registration documents if conducting business on behalf of company. Business visa holders cannot engage in paid employment in Uganda. For employment, a work permit is required, which must be obtained through your employer in Uganda before arrival. Business visa fees are similar to tourist visas.

Journalists and Media Personnel

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require media accreditation from the Uganda Media Centre in addition to their visa. Apply for accreditation before arrival with: letter from media organization on official letterhead, detailed itinerary and purpose of coverage, copies of previous work, passport copy, and passport photos. Filming permits may be required for certain locations. Professional camera equipment should be declared at customs. Working as a journalist on a tourist visa is prohibited and can result in deportation and equipment confiscation.

Volunteer Workers

Volunteers should apply for an appropriate visa category depending on duration and nature of work. Short-term volunteers (under 30 days) may use tourist visa with supporting letter from organization. Long-term volunteers require special pass or work permit. Required documents include: invitation letter from registered NGO or organization, proof of volunteer status (unpaid position), details of volunteer activities, and accommodation arrangements. Some volunteer activities may require additional clearances from relevant ministries. Ensure your visa category matches your intended activities.

Students

Students accepted to Ugandan educational institutions require a student pass, not a tourist visa. Apply through the institution, which will facilitate the application process. Required documents include: admission letter from recognized institution, proof of payment of tuition fees, academic transcripts, proof of accommodation, proof of financial support for duration of studies, and police clearance certificate from home country. Student passes are typically issued for the duration of the academic program. Students cannot engage in paid employment without separate work authorization.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Entebbe International Airport without leaving the airport do not require a visa if they remain in the international transit area and their connecting flight departs within 24 hours. If you wish to leave the airport or have a longer layover and want to visit Kampala, you must obtain a transit visa (7 days, USD $50) or regular tourist visa. Ensure you have confirmed onward tickets and valid visa for your final destination. Some nationalities may require transit visa even if not leaving airport - check with your airline.