Planning a safari to Uganda? Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda offers extraordinary wildlife encounters, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Before travelling, it is important to understand Uganda’s visa and entry requirements. Most international travellers who require a visa must obtain their visa approval online before travelling to Uganda, while nationals of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements.
At Onyx Nature Safaris, we help travellers plan seamless Uganda safari experiences, from airport transfers and accommodation to gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris and tailor-made journeys across the country.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Uganda?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and passport type.
Travellers from countries that are not on Uganda’s official visa-exempt list generally need to apply for a Uganda visa online before travelling.
Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control advises travellers to use only the official Uganda Electronic Visa and Permit System when applying for a visa.
Apply for your Uganda visa through the official government portal:
https://visas.immigration.go.ug
Avoid unofficial websites or agents claiming to issue Ugandan visas, as these may charge additional fees or may not be legitimate.
Uganda Tourist Visa Requirements
The ordinary Uganda tourist visa is intended for visitors travelling to Uganda for tourism, including wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, holidays and other short-term visits.
For a standard tourist visa application, you may be required to provide:
- A passport with at least 6 months validity
- A clear copy of your passport biodata page
- A recent passport-size photograph
- A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
- Your safari itinerary or travel plan
- Accommodation or hotel booking details
- Travel or flight itinerary
- Any additional documents requested by Uganda Immigration
- A valid email address
- Payment of the applicable visa fee
Uganda Immigration may request additional documentation depending on your nationality, travel purpose or individual circumstances.
All documents uploaded during the application should generally be in English
How to Apply for a Uganda Visa Online
Uganda’s visa application process is completed online through the official immigration portal.
Step 1: Visit the official Uganda e-Visa portal
Go to:
https://visas.immigration.go.ug
Select “Start a New Application.”
Step 2: Select your visa category
Choose the appropriate visa type and category for your journey. For most safari travellers, this will be the ordinary tourist visa.
Step 3: Complete the application form
Enter your personal information, passport details, travel information and other requested details carefully.
Make sure that your name and passport information exactly match the information on your passport.
Step 4: Upload your documents
Upload the required supporting documents, including your passport biodata page, photograph, Yellow Fever certificate and relevant travel or accommodation information.
Step 5: Submit your application
Review your information carefully before submitting the application.
Once submitted, you will receive an application reference number. Keep this number safe so that you can track your application.
Step 6: Pay the visa fee
Pay the applicable visa fee through the official immigration system.
Step 7: Wait for approval
Once your application has been processed and approved, you will receive an approval letter electronically.
Download and print your approval letter and carry it with you when travelling to Uganda.
How Much Does a Uganda Tourist Visa Cost?
The standard Uganda ordinary/tourist visa costs USD 50.
Visa fees are generally non-refundable, and additional bank or payment charges may apply.
Because immigration fees and requirements can change, travellers should always confirm the amount displayed on the official Uganda Immigration portal before making payment.
