What Is the Uganda Transit Visa?
Uganda's Transit eVisa allows a single entry stay of up to 7 days while you connect to a third country. It's perfect for long layovers in Entebbe, overland trips between Kenya and Rwanda, or short stopovers before continuing your journey.
Who Needs It?
- Travelers whose layover exceeds the airport's sterile transit time (usually 8–12 hours) and who plan to exit the terminal.
- Overland passengers driving or busing through Uganda en route to another nation.
- Regional travelers who want to spend a night or two in Kampala or Entebbe before continuing elsewhere.
If you remain airside at Entebbe International Airport for a same-day connection, you generally do not need a visa—but confirm with your airline.
Eligibility & Typical Use Cases
| Situation | Need a Transit Visa? |
|---|---|
| Overnight stop in Entebbe between two international flights | ✅ Yes |
| Driving from Kenya to Rwanda via Uganda | ✅ Yes |
| Landing in Entebbe, same-plane continuation within a few hours, staying airside | ❌ Usually no |
| Border hop from DR Congo for a meeting, returning within 7 days | ✅ Yes |
| Short stopover in Kampala before continuing to another country | ✅ Yes |
Documents You'll Need
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond arrival.
- Recent passport photo.
- Proof of onward travel to a third country (flight/bus ticket, vehicle logbook, or invitation letter).
- Brief itinerary or accommodation booking (hotel, lodge, host letter).
- Yellow fever certificate if you're arriving from or transiting a risk country.
How to Apply
- Visit uganda-immigration.com and select Transit eVisa (Single entry for 7 days).
- Complete the application form with your details.
- Submit your payment (government fee + service fee).
- Upload the required documents (passport, photo, onward ticket, proof of stay).
- Receive the approval email (typically within 3–5 business days) and print it for border control.
Note: You can apply for up to 15 passengers in one application, but each traveler will receive their own visa approval letter.
Where You Can Enter
The Transit Visa is valid at all official checkpoints, including:
- Airports: Entebbe International (EBB).
- Kenya Borders: Malaba, Busia.
- Rwanda Borders: Gatuna/Katuna, Kagitumba/Mirama Hills.
- Tanzania Border: Mutukula.
- DR Congo Borders: Bunagana, Mpondwe.
- South Sudan Borders: Elegu, Nimule.
Tips for Easy Transit Through Uganda
- Apply at least 2 weeks before travel so you have the approval before departure.
- Book accommodation even if you plan a quick overnight stay—immigration may ask for proof.
- Keep copies of your onward ticket handy for both arrival and departure.
- Respect the 7-day limit. Overstays incur fines and may affect future visas.
- If your plans change and you need more time, visit Immigration HQ in Kampala before your visa expires to request an extension or upgrade to a Tourist eVisa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Transit Visa for tourism?
You can explore Kampala, Entebbe, or nearby attractions during your 7-day window, but if you want more time, apply for a Tourist eVisa (Single entry for 90 days).
Do I need a Transit Visa for a 10-hour layover if I stay inside the airport?
No, as long as you remain airside and your airline allows it. Leaving the terminal requires a visa.
What if my flight is delayed and I exceed 7 days?
Contact immigration immediately (at the airport or by phone) with proof of delay to avoid overstay penalties.
Does the Transit Visa count toward the East Africa Tourist Visa?
No. They are separate products. If you'll be visiting Kenya or Rwanda as well, the East Africa Tourist Visa (valid 90 days, multiple entries) may be better value.
Can I apply for my family together?
Yes, you can submit a group application for up to 15 passengers through uganda-immigration.com. Each traveler, including children, will receive their own visa approval letter.
What's the difference between Transit Visa and Tourist Visa?
The Transit Visa is valid for 7 days and intended for brief stopovers. The Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days and better suited for longer stays and tourism activities.
Uganda's Transit Visa is a quick, affordable way to turn a layover into a mini-adventure—just apply early, keep your documents ready, and enjoy the stopover.
