Uganda Visa for Australian Citizens 2026

Do Australian Citizens Need a Visa for Uganda?

Yes. Australian passport holders require a visa to enter Uganda. Australia is not on Uganda's visa-exempt countries list, so all Australian travellers must obtain an eVisa online before boarding an aircraft to Uganda—visas are not issued on arrival.

The most straightforward option is to apply for a single-entry ordinary tourist eVisa through Uganda's official Electronic Visa/Permit Application System. The commonly reported fee is USD 50 for the government component, plus any service fees if using a third-party processor, and processing typically takes 3–7 working days.

Visa Types for Australian Travellers

Uganda offers several eVisa categories. First-time visitors to Uganda must apply for one of these:

• Single-Entry Ordinary Visa (Tourist): For holiday, tourism, family visits, or medical treatment. Valid for a single entry; you cannot re-enter Uganda on the same visa.
• East Africa Tourist Visa (EAC): Allows multiple entries to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for 90 days total. This is an alternative for those planning to visit the wider East Africa region.
• Multiple-Entry Visa: Not available to first-time visitors; available only from your second visit onwards for stays of 6–36 months depending on the duration selected.

For a safari or holiday, the single-entry tourist visa is the standard choice. If your plans include travel to Kenya or Rwanda, the EAC Tourist Visa may offer better value and flexibility.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Important: Uganda's government explicitly warns travellers to use only the official portal at visas.immigration.go.ug (ending in .go.ug). Any other website offering visa services is fraudulent, and the Government of Uganda will not be responsible for funds lost to unofficial sites.

Step 1: Log In and Select Visa Type

Visit the official Uganda eVisa portal and create an account. Choose your application type (Visa or Permit), then select the category—for tourists, this is "Ordinary" and the subcategory "Single-Entry."

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Fill in your personal details, passport information, travel dates, and intended port of entry. You will need to declare the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, medical, study, visit).

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload the following documents as digital files:

• Passport biodata page: A clear, readable colour or black-and-white scan of the page showing your name, passport number, date of birth, and expiry date. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival.
• Passport-size photograph: A recent colour photograph (typically 35 mm × 45 mm or 4 cm × 6 cm) of your face, taken against a plain background. Ensure the image is clear and meets the portal's specifications.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate: A copy of your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (the yellow card) showing you have received a yellow fever vaccine. This is mandatory for entry to Uganda.
• Cover letter or letter of intent: A brief letter (one page) on your personal or business letterhead stating the purpose of your visit, your itinerary, and your employment or business details. Sign and date it.
• Flight reservation or itinerary: A copy of your outbound and return flight bookings (not a ticket, but a confirmed reservation showing dates and flight numbers).
• Accommodation details: Confirmation of your hotel, lodge, or other accommodation in Uganda (booking confirmation or reservation letter).

Some applications may also request a police clearance certificate or recommendation letter, depending on the visa type or individual circumstances.

Step 4: Review and Submit

Review all information and documents for accuracy. Once satisfied, submit your application through the portal.

Step 5: Payment

Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card. The portal will display the total amount due (government fee plus any service fee) before you complete payment.

Step 6: Wait for Approval

You will receive status updates and your approval via email. Once approved, download and print your eVisa approval letter and carry it with you when you travel.

Visa Fees & Payment

Uganda's visa fees consist of two components: a government fee and, if applicable, a service fee charged by a third-party processor.

Visa Type	Government Fee (USD)	Processing Option	Total Cost (USD)
Single-Entry Tourist Visa	50	Standard (3–7 days)	50
Single-Entry Tourist Visa	50	Rush (4–7 days)	50 + service fee*
Single-Entry Tourist Visa	50	Super-Rush (3–5 days)	50 + service fee*
EAC Tourist Visa (90 days, multiple entries, Kenya/Rwanda/Uganda)	Varies	Standard	Confirm on official portal

*Service fees vary by processor; apply directly through the official government portal to pay only the government fee. Third-party visa assistance services add their own fees for expedited processing.

The commonly cited fee for a single-entry ordinary tourist visa is USD 50, but confirm the current amount on the official portal before paying, as fees can change. Payment is made online via credit or debit card; cash and bank transfers are not accepted through the portal.

Processing Times & Visa Validity

Standard Processing

Standard processing typically takes 3–7 working days from submission, though Uganda's official sources do not publish a guaranteed processing time. To minimise the risk of delays, apply at least 2–4 weeks before your intended travel date. Do not apply immediately before departure.

Rush & Super-Rush Processing

If you need faster approval, third-party visa processors offer expedited options:

• Rush Processing: 4–7 working days (additional fee charged).
• Super-Rush Processing: 3–5 working days (additional fee charged).

These services use the same official portal but prioritise your application; however, the final decision rests with Uganda's immigration authority.

Visa Validity & Allowed Stay

Once approved, your eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of approval. You must enter Uganda within this 90-day window; if you do not travel within that period, your visa expires and you must reapply. Upon entry, you are typically granted a single stay of up to 90 days, depending on the immigration officer's discretion and the visa type issued.

Health Requirements: Yellow Fever Vaccination

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry to Uganda, regardless of where you are travelling from. This is a requirement of Uganda's immigration authority and the World Health Organization. You must have received the vaccine at least 10 days before travel and carry the original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (the yellow card).

Ensure your vaccination is current and valid; some vaccines are valid for life, while others require a booster. Consult your travel clinic or doctor at least 4–6 weeks before departure to arrange vaccination if you have not already received it. For comprehensive guidance on all vaccinations recommended for Uganda, review Uganda's health requirements for travellers.

On Arrival: Immigration Checks & Entry

When you arrive at a Ugandan airport or land border, present your printed eVisa approval letter, your passport, and your yellow fever vaccination certificate to the immigration officer. The officer will verify your documents against Uganda's law enforcement and security databases (the eVisa system performs these checks automatically).

You may also be asked to provide:

• Proof of onward travel (return flight booking or onward ticket).
• Proof of accommodation (hotel confirmation).
• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay.

Immigration officers have discretion to grant entry or deny it if documents are incomplete, inconsistent, or if security checks raise concerns. Have all documents ready and accessible.

Extending Your Stay or Returning

Extension Within Uganda

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the 90 days granted on entry, you must apply to Uganda's Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) in person in Kampala before your current permission expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and are handled on a case-by-case basis. Plan ahead if you think you may need to stay longer.

Returning to Uganda

If you leave Uganda and wish to return on the same trip, your single-entry visa is no longer valid—you cannot re-enter. You would need to apply for a new visa or apply for a multiple-entry visa on your next visit (which is available only to returning visitors). If you plan to visit multiple times, consider the EAC Tourist Visa for multiple entries across Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda within 90 days.

Overstays & Penalties

Overstaying your authorised period in Uganda is a serious immigration violation. Penalties include fines, detention, deportation, and bans on future entry. If your visa or entry permission is about to expire, exit Uganda before the expiry date or apply for an extension well in advance. Do not rely on immigration officers to grant extensions at the airport.

Transit Visas

If you are transiting through Uganda to another country and your layover is 24 hours or less, you may be eligible for a transit visa, which is cheaper and faster than a tourist visa. However, this applies only if you do not leave the airport or designated transit area. Confirm transit eligibility with your airline and Uganda's immigration authority before booking.

Passport Requirements

Your Australian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Uganda. If your passport expires within 6 months of your planned travel, renew it before applying for a visa. Additionally, if your passport contains an 'X' gender marker, verify with the Ugandan embassy that this will be accepted, as Uganda may not recognise all international passport standards.

Common Mistakes & Reasons for Visa Rejection

Avoid these common pitfalls to prevent delays or rejection:

• Using an unofficial website: Only apply through visas.immigration.go.ug. Fraudulent sites will steal your money and documents.
• Uploading unclear or incomplete documents: Ensure your passport scan, photograph, and yellow fever certificate are clear, readable, and meet the portal's file specifications. Blurry or cropped images cause rejections.
• Passport validity too short: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying.
• Missing yellow fever vaccination: A valid yellow fever certificate is non-negotiable for entry. Do not apply if you have not been vaccinated.
• Inconsistent or false information: Ensure all details in your application (name, dates, passport number) match your passport and travel documents exactly.
• Applying too close to travel date: Standard processing takes 3–7 days minimum. If you apply the day before departure, your visa may not be approved in time.
• Wrong visa type: Ensure you select "Ordinary" and "Single-Entry" if you are a first-time visitor on holiday. Selecting "Business" or "Multiple-Entry" when ineligible will cause rejection.
• Incomplete cover letter or missing accommodation proof: Your letter of intent and hotel booking confirmation must be present and legible.

Dual Nationality & Special Circumstances

Uganda recognises dual nationality. If you hold both an Australian passport and another passport, you may enter Uganda using either one, but you must be consistent—do not switch passports mid-trip. If you hold a passport with an 'X' gender marker or have other special circumstances, contact the Ugandan embassy or immigration authority in advance to confirm entry requirements.

Comparing Your Options: EAC Tourist Visa vs. Single-Entry Uganda Visa

If you are planning a multi-country East Africa trip, the EAC Tourist Visa may be more convenient and economical than applying for separate visas for Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This visa allows multiple entries to all three countries for 90 days. However, if you are visiting only Uganda, the single-entry tourist visa is the straightforward choice.

When comparing safari packages in Uganda, factor in visa costs and processing time as part of your overall trip budget and timeline.

Important: Official vs. Third-Party Services

You have two options for applying:

1. Direct application through the official government portal (visas.immigration.go.ug): You pay only the government fee (USD 50 for a single-entry tourist visa) and handle the application yourself. This is the most economical option and is straightforward for most travellers.
2. Through a third-party visa service: Companies like TravelNER, Peninsula Visa, and others offer assistance and expedited processing for an additional service fee. These are useful if you need urgent processing (3–5 days) or prefer professional support, but they are not affiliated with the Ugandan government and will charge extra.

Uganda's immigration authority recommends using the official portal directly. If you choose a third-party service, verify it is legitimate, read reviews, and understand the total cost upfront.

Planning Your Safari Trip

Once your visa is approved, you can book your safari. Uganda is home to mountain gorillas, tree-climbing lions, and diverse wildlife across national parks like Bwindi Impenetrable, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls. Compare verified safari operators and tour packages to find the experience and budget that suit you. Ensure your operator is registered with Uganda's tourism authority and has positive reviews from past travellers.

Final Checklist Before You Travel

• ☐ Apply for your eVisa 2–4 weeks before departure through the official portal.
• ☐ Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from arrival.
• ☐ Receive and print your eVisa approval letter.
• ☐ Get a yellow fever vaccination and carry your certificate.
• ☐ Book your flights and accommodation in advance.
• ☐ Check Uganda's current travel advice on Smartraveller for any security or health updates.
• ☐ Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid card blocks.
• ☐ Consider travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and trip cancellation.

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Visa requirements, fees, and processing times can change without notice. Verify the latest information on the official Uganda eVisa portal (visas.immigration.go.ug) and with your travel provider before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Australian citizens need a visa for Uganda?

Yes, Australian passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Uganda. Australia is not on Uganda's visa-exempt countries list. All Australian travellers must apply for an eVisa online through the official Uganda eVisa portal (visas.immigration.go.ug) before departure; visas are not issued on arrival.

How much is a Uganda visa for Australian citizens?

The government fee for a single-entry tourist eVisa is typically USD 50. However, confirm the current amount on the official portal before paying, as fees can change. If you use a third-party visa processor for expedited handling, additional service fees will apply.

How long does a Uganda eVisa take to process?

Standard processing takes 3–7 working days. Rush processing (4–7 days) and super-rush processing (3–5 days) are available through third-party providers for an additional fee. Apply at least 2–4 weeks before your intended travel date to avoid delays.

What documents do I need to apply for a Uganda visa as an Australian?

You will need a copy of your passport biodata page (valid for at least 6 months), a recent passport-size photograph, your yellow fever vaccination certificate, a cover letter stating your purpose of visit, a flight reservation (outbound and return), and accommodation details in Uganda. Some applications may also request a police clearance or recommendation letter.

Is yellow fever vaccination required to enter Uganda?

Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry to Uganda, regardless of where you are travelling from. You must have received the vaccine at least 10 days before travel and carry your original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (yellow card).

Can I get a Uganda visa on arrival?

No. Uganda does not issue visas on arrival. All visa-prone travellers, including Australians, must obtain an eVisa online and have approval before boarding their flight to Uganda.

How long is a Uganda eVisa valid for?

Once approved, your eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of approval. You must enter Uganda within this 90-day window. Upon arrival, you are typically granted a single stay of up to 90 days, depending on the immigration officer's discretion.

Can I re-enter Uganda on the same single-entry visa?

No. A single-entry visa permits only one entry to Uganda. If you leave and want to return, you must apply for a new visa. Multiple-entry visas are available only to visitors returning to Uganda for a second or subsequent visit.

Should I use a third-party visa service or apply directly?

You can apply directly through the official government portal (visas.immigration.go.ug) and pay only the government fee (USD 50). Third-party services offer expedited processing and assistance but charge additional fees. The official portal is recommended for most travellers and is the most economical option.

What should I avoid when applying for a Uganda eVisa?

Avoid using unofficial websites (Uganda explicitly warns against fraudulent visa sites), uploading blurry or incomplete documents, applying with a passport valid for less than 6 months, omitting your yellow fever certificate, and applying too close to your travel date. Ensure all personal information matches your passport exactly.

Can I extend my stay in Uganda beyond 90 days?

Extensions are possible but not guaranteed. You must apply in person to Uganda's Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) in Kampala before your current permission expires. Plan ahead and apply well in advance if you think you may need to stay longer.

What is the EAC Tourist Visa, and should I consider it instead?

The EAC Tourist Visa allows multiple entries to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda for 90 days total. If you are planning a multi-country East Africa trip, this visa may be more convenient and economical than applying for separate single-entry visas. For Uganda-only travel, the single-entry tourist visa is the standard choice.