Uganda Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport and visa (if applicable). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents or legal guardians must carry a notarized parental consent letter signed by the absent parent(s), including contact details and copies of their ID/passport. If traveling with only one parent, carry the child's birth certificate and consent letter from the other parent. In cases of sole custody, carry legal documentation. Divorced parents should carry custody papers. These requirements are strictly enforced to prevent child trafficking. Unaccompanied minors require special documentation and airline arrangements.

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 confirming the animal is healthy and free from infectious diseases; (3) Import permit from the Ugandan Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (apply at least 4 weeks before travel); (4) Microchip identification recommended. Some airlines have specific requirements for pet travel. Pets may be quarantined upon arrival if documentation is incomplete. Contact the Ministry of Agriculture well in advance: +256 414 286 001.

Tourist visas typically allow stays up to 90 days. To extend your stay, apply at the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control in Kampala before your current visa expires. Required documents include: completed application form, valid passport, passport photos, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation details, and extension fee (varies by visa type). Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. For stays longer than 6 months, consider applying for a special pass or residence permit. Working in Uganda requires a work permit obtained before arrival through your employer. Overstaying your visa results in fines (approximately USD $100 per day) and potential deportation or entry bans.

Business visitors should apply for a business visa (same cost as tourist visa) and carry: letter of invitation from Ugandan company/organization, letter from your employer explaining the purpose of visit, proof of business registration (for self-employed), and meeting/conference details. Business visas allow business meetings, conferences, and negotiations but do not permit paid employment. For actual work or employment, a work permit must be obtained in advance through the sponsoring organization. Multiple entry visas are recommended for frequent business travelers.

Volunteers and NGO workers require special permits. Tourist visas do not authorize volunteer work or NGO activities. Organizations hosting volunteers must apply for work permits or volunteer permits on behalf of the volunteer. This process can take several weeks or months. Carry documentation from the hosting organization, including registration certificates, project details, and invitation letters. Unauthorized volunteer work can result in deportation and affect future visa applications.

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require media accreditation from the Uganda Media Centre before arrival. Apply well in advance (4-6 weeks minimum) with detailed information about your assignment, crew members, and equipment. Professional camera equipment may require temporary import permits. Filming permits are required for commercial productions. Contact the Uganda Media Centre: +256 414 353 099 or info@mediacentre.go.ug. Unauthorized journalism or filming can result in equipment confiscation and deportation.