What is the Uganda Transit eVisa?
The Uganda Transit eVisa is a specialized electronic visa designed for travelers who are passing through Uganda on their way to another destination. This visa type is perfect for passengers with short layovers or stopovers at Entebbe International Airport or those transiting through Uganda by land to reach neighboring countries.
Unlike the standard tourist eVisa, the Transit eVisa is specifically tailored for brief stays and allows travelers to remain in Uganda for up to 72 hours (3 days). This makes it an ideal solution for travelers who need to change flights, wait for connecting transportation, or briefly explore the capital city of Kampala during a layover.
The Transit eVisa application process is conducted entirely online through the official Uganda eVisa portal, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate. Once approved, the visa is sent electronically to your email, which you can print and present upon arrival in Uganda.
Who Needs a Uganda Transit eVisa?
Transit Visa Requirements
You will need a Uganda Transit eVisa if you fall into any of these categories:
- Flight Connections - Travelers with connecting flights through Entebbe International Airport who plan to leave the airport transit area
- Overnight Layovers - Passengers with long layovers who wish to stay in a hotel or explore Kampala during their wait
- Land Transit - Travelers passing through Uganda by road to reach Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, or other neighboring countries
- Short Stopovers - Visitors who want to briefly experience Uganda's attractions during a stopover of up to 72 hours
- Airport Exit - Anyone who needs to exit the airport transit zone for any reason during their layover
Important Note: If you plan to stay in Uganda for longer than 72 hours or engage in tourism activities, you should apply for a standard tourist eVisa instead.
Transit eVisa Validity and Duration
Maximum Stay
Up to 72 hours (3 days) from the time of entry into Uganda. This is strictly enforced and cannot be extended.
Visa Validity
Valid for 7 days from the date of issue, giving you flexibility in your travel dates within that window.
Entry Type
Single entry only - Once you exit Uganda, the Transit eVisa becomes invalid and cannot be reused.
Uganda Transit eVisa Requirements
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of entry into Uganda and have at least one blank page for stamps.
Passport Details →Passport Photo
A recent passport-sized photograph with a white background, meeting Uganda's specific photo requirements for eVisa applications.
Photo Specs →Travel Documents
Proof of onward travel such as flight tickets or booking confirmations showing your departure from Uganda within 72 hours.
Document List →Yellow Fever Certificate
Mandatory proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for all travelers entering Uganda, including those in transit.
Vaccination Info →How to Apply for Uganda Transit eVisa
Simple Online Application Process
- Visit the eVisa Portal - Access the official Uganda eVisa application website and select "Transit Visa" as your visa type
- Complete the Application Form - Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary accurately
- Upload Required Documents - Submit scanned copies of your passport bio-data page, passport photo, onward travel tickets, and Yellow Fever certificate
- Pay the Visa Fee - Make a secure online payment of $50 USD using a credit card or other accepted payment methods
- Receive Your eVisa - Your approved Transit eVisa will be sent to your email within 3-5 business days
- Print and Travel - Print your eVisa approval letter and present it along with your passport at Uganda immigration
Transit eVisa vs Tourist eVisa: Which Do You Need?
| Feature | Transit eVisa | Tourist eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Stay | Up to 72 hours (3 days) | Up to 90 days |
| Validity Period | 7 days from issue | 90 days from issue |
| Entry Type | Single entry only | Single or multiple entry |
| Visa Fee | $50 USD | $50 USD (single entry) |
| Processing Time | 3-5 business days | 3-5 business days |
| Purpose | Transit/layover only | Tourism, leisure, sightseeing |
| Extension Possible | No | Yes, can be extended |
Recommendation: If you're unsure about your travel plans or might want to stay longer, it's better to apply for a tourist eVisa which offers more flexibility. The cost is the same, but you'll have the option to stay up to 90 days and can extend your visa if needed.
Important Information for Transit Travelers
Transit Without Visa (TWOV)
Some travelers may be eligible for Transit Without Visa (TWOV) if they meet specific conditions:
- You remain in the airport transit area and do not pass through immigration
- Your connecting flight departs within 24 hours
- You hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country
- You possess valid travel documents for your final destination
However, if you plan to leave the airport transit area, collect checked luggage, stay overnight in a hotel, or explore Kampala, you must obtain a Transit eVisa regardless of your layover duration.
Overstaying Your Transit eVisa
Overstaying your Transit eVisa is a serious violation of Ugandan immigration law. If you remain in Uganda beyond the permitted 72 hours, you may face:
- Fines - Penalties of approximately $30 USD per day of overstay
- Detention - Possible detention by immigration authorities
- Deportation - Forced removal from Uganda at your own expense
- Future Travel Bans - Difficulty obtaining Ugandan visas in the future
If you realize you need more time in Uganda, you cannot extend a Transit eVisa. You must leave the country and apply for a proper tourist visa if you wish to return.
Transit by Land
The Transit eVisa is also valid for travelers passing through Uganda by land. Common transit routes include:
- Kenya to Rwanda - Via the Malaba or Busia border crossings
- Tanzania to Rwanda - Through southern Uganda
- Kenya to Tanzania - Via Uganda's eastern corridor
- DRC to Kenya - Through western Uganda
If you're traveling between East African countries and your route passes through Uganda, ensure you have your Transit eVisa ready before reaching the border. For multi-country trips lasting more than 72 hours, consider the East African Tourist Visa which allows travel to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for up to 90 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the Transit eVisa cannot be extended under any circumstances. It is strictly limited to 72 hours (3 days) from your entry into Uganda. If you think you might need more time, you should apply for a tourist eVisa instead, which allows stays of up to 90 days and can be extended while in Uganda.
If you remain in the international transit area of Entebbe International Airport and your connecting flight departs within 24 hours, you generally do not need a Transit eVisa. However, if you plan to exit the transit area, collect checked luggage, or stay overnight in a hotel, you must obtain a Transit eVisa before arrival.
The Uganda Transit eVisa costs $50 USD, which is the same price as a single-entry tourist visa. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid online during the application process. For detailed information about payment methods, visit our eVisa fees page.
The standard processing time for a Uganda Transit eVisa is 3-5 business days. However, we recommend applying at least 7-10 days before your travel date to account for any potential delays or requests for additional documentation. Learn more about processing times.
While the Transit eVisa allows you to leave the airport and briefly explore Kampala or nearby areas during your layover, it is not intended for extensive tourism activities. If you plan to visit national parks, go gorilla trekking, or engage in other tourist activities, you should apply for a proper tourist eVisa which provides adequate time for sightseeing.
The Transit eVisa is available to citizens of most countries worldwide. The eligibility is the same as for the tourist eVisa. Check our complete list of eligible countries to confirm whether you can apply online. Some nationalities may be exempt from visa requirements for short transit periods.
Tips for a Smooth Transit Through Uganda
Before You Travel
- Apply Early - Submit your Transit eVisa application at least 7-10 days before your travel date
- Print Your eVisa - Always carry a printed copy of your eVisa approval letter, even if you have it on your phone
- Check Vaccination Requirements - Ensure your Yellow Fever vaccination is up to date and carry your certificate
- Verify Flight Times - Confirm your connecting flight schedule to ensure you stay within the 72-hour limit
- Book Accommodation - If staying overnight, book a hotel near the airport in advance for convenience
At the Airport
- Have Documents Ready - Keep your passport, eVisa, Yellow Fever certificate, and onward tickets easily accessible
- Declare Your Transit - Inform immigration officers that you're in transit and show proof of your onward journey
- Track Your Time - Keep careful track of your 72-hour window from the moment you enter Uganda
- Stay Near the Airport - Consider hotels in Entebbe rather than Kampala to minimize travel time and ensure you don't miss your flight
- Allow Extra Time - Return to the airport at least 3 hours before your connecting flight for international departures
Ready to Apply for Your Uganda Transit eVisa?
Get your Transit eVisa approved quickly and enjoy a hassle-free layover in Uganda. Our secure online application process makes it easy to obtain your visa in just a few days.
Apply for Transit eVisa NowNeed help with your application? Check our FAQ section or learn about common application issues.