Uganda

When traveling to Uganda, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you require a work permit. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Uganda, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Buy goods for sale outside the country
• » Tour a company facility
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Uganda?

Most foreign nationals, including nationals of the United States and the European Union member states, are required to obtain an Entry Visa from a Ugandan Consulate or Embassy prior to travel. Only nationals from select countries, including member states of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) are eligible for visa waiver status, which allows visitors to enter and conduct business activities in Uganda. Please obtain an individual assessment prior to travel to determine your eligibility for a visa waiver.

What types of activities require a work permit?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Ugandan law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Uganda, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Project implementation
• » Hands-on technical work
• » Consulting

If I am traveling to Uganda for work, what type of work permit do I need?

The requirements for a work permit depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Uganda. The most common Ugandan work permits are:

• » Special Pass (short-term work authorization for work up to five months per year)
• » Six-Month Work Permit (short-term work permit for assignments lasting up to six months at a time)
• » Class G2 Work Permit (long-term work permit for direct hires)

Is it possible to be exempted from work permit requirements?

Uganda does not offer work authorization exemptions.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.