Uganda

The Pearl of Africa

Flag of Uganda
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-East African Community (EAC) citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Uganda.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Uganda.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens of certain nations (e.g., some EAC and COMESA countries) can enter Uganda with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Uganda.
  • e-Visa: Available for most nationalities via the online portal—apply in advance.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) may still require a Ugandan visa—verify with the Ugandan embassy.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) must typically obtain a Ugandan visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry—check embassy requirements.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Uganda using only a valid national ID card:
    • East African Community (EAC) member states (e.g., Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan).

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays—contact the Ugandan Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions via the Ministry of Health website.
Toll

Driving in Uganda

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, the main toll road in Uganda is:
    • Kampala–Entebbe Expressway: Connecting Kampala to Entebbe International Airport.
    • Additional toll roads may be under consideration—check official sources for updates.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) website: https://www.unra.go.ug/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Ugandan Shilling (UGX) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at select toll booths, particularly on the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being implemented—check https://www.unra.go.ug/ for updates.

Driving in Uganda

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; major roads like Kampala to Jinja are paved, but rural roads can be rough or unpaved—exercise caution.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Recommended alongside your national driver’s license for non-EAC citizens.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Uganda is considering implementing a vignette system for road use—check https://www.unra.go.ug/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Uganda has been improving road safety, but remain vigilant, especially at night or in rural areas due to wildlife and pedestrians.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable in cities, keep an updated physical map as a backup for rural regions.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Uganda Currency

Official Currency

  • The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 UGX
  • Coins: 50, 100, 200, 500 UGX
  • Symbol: USh

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas like Kampala and Entebbe for direct UGX withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash: Preferred, especially in rural areas and for small transactions.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments—Visa and Mastercard are most common.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Uganda website: https://www.bou.or.ug/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Uganda

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Uganda, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines or arrest.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing political unrest or tribal conflicts—respect local customs and traditions.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with severe penalties including life imprisonment. Public displays of affection may attract legal consequences.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent in UGX).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Uganda Tourism Board or Consumer Protection Agency—details at https://www.utb.go.ug/.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., along Lake Victoria) must allow free access within a reasonable distance of the shoreline—private properties may restrict further inland areas.

Key Resources

Uganda Travel Safety

Uganda is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Uganda.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or Kampala’s downtown. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Uganda is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers, potholes, and poor rural road conditions.
  • Avoid night driving in mountainous or rural areas due to limited visibility and wildlife risks.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety: Avoid tap water; drink bottled water. Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays or rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required for all travelers over 1 year old—certificate checked at entry.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against malaria (widespread) and dengue (urban risk).
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Rwenzori Mountains). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like International Hospital Kampala offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications for rural travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 999 | Fire: 112 | Police: 999.
  • Tourist Police (Kampala): +256 414 342 222 (verify locally).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas—check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Rwenzori or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing political issues or regional conflicts.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Kampala—monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Uganda