Uganda Implements Temporary Visa on Arrival Due to e-Visa Portal Outage
Uganda has introduced a temporary visa-on-arrival policy following a technical malfunction of its electronic visa (e-Visa) portal, according to an announcement made on October 4, 2024.
Uganda has introduced a temporary visa-on-arrival policy following a technical malfunction of its electronic visa (e-Visa) portal, according to an announcement made on October 4, 2024. The measure allows travellers to obtain their visas upon arrival while the e-Visa system undergoes upgrades.The Ugandan Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a statement via its official X account (formerly Twitter), informing travellers and airlines of the situation. Due to the e-immigration system being inaccessible, travellers can now board flights to Uganda without prior e-Visa approval. Upon arrival, they will be issued visas by the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control."Due to an ongoing system upgrade, travellers are temporarily unable to access online visa services. Airlines have been advised to allow passengers to board without prior e-Visa approval, and visas will be issued upon arrival," the statement clarified.
Requirements for Visa on Arrival
Although the visa-on-arrival option provides temporary relief for travellers, Uganda Immigration has emphasised that visitors must still meet all standard visa requirements. The following documents are necessary to secure a visa at the airport:
A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure, with at least two blank pages.
A passport-sized photo.
A valid international vaccination certificate, including proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Proof of onward travel or exit from Uganda.
Accommodation details or an invitation letter.
A visa fee of US$50.
While this solution maintains the flow of travellers, it may result in longer wait times at immigration checkpoints. Tourists and regular travellers, including business professionals, should allow additional time for visa processing upon arrival.
Temporary Measure to Minimise Disruption
The e-Visa system has been offline since early October, affecting applicants’ ability to apply, pay for, or check the status of their visas. Although the Ministry of Internal Affairs did not provide a specific timeline for the restoration of the e-Visa portal, they assured the public that the visa-on-arrival measure is temporary and will remain in place until the technical issues are resolved.This policy adjustment, while imperfect, ensures that Uganda can continue to welcome travellers while safeguarding the security and regulation of its borders.
