The United States has announced significant changes to its visa policies for Ugandan citizens, emphasizing both diplomatic partnership and strict enforcement.

U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp, speaking at the American Centre in Kampala, stressed the enduring ties between the two nations but noted that U.S. immigration laws would be rigorously enforced, prioritizing lawful travel and national security.

Since July 2025, business and tourist (B-1/B-2) visas for Ugandans are limited to a single entry with a three-month validity.

Effective January 21, 2026, Uganda was included in the Visa Bond pilot program, requiring some B-1/B-2 applicants to post a refundable bond of up to US$15,000 (~Shs 54 million) before visa issuance.

The exact bond amount is communicated only after qualification, and payment should never be made in advance to third parties.

The bond is refunded within 30 days if the traveller departs on time.

The U.S. has also temporarily paused immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, including Uganda, though existing immigrant visas remain valid, and non-immigrant visas such as B-1/B-2 and student visas are unaffected.

Entry into the U.S. does not guarantee a specific length of stay, as this is determined by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry, and misrepresentation can lead to permanent ineligibility or legal consequences.

U.S. officials explained that these policies are data-driven and aimed at addressing overstays and status violations.

For Uganda, the FY2024 overstay rate was 6.56% (601 out of 9,164 expected departures), lower than some regional neighbors but still a concern for U.S. authorities.

Student and exchange visitor overstays were higher at 12.3%. (DHS Entry/Exit Data)

The focus is on compliance, with Ambassador Popp stating that honest applicants who follow visa rules will continue to travel legitimately.

Officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged citizens to read embassy guidelines carefully, complete applications themselves, and avoid third-party intermediaries. They emphasized that violations by a few can affect opportunities for many.

The Ugandan embassy in Washington has increased outreach to students and diaspora communities, focusing on education and lawful travel.

• Only pay the visa bond when instructed by the consular officer.

• Ensure timely departure from the U.S. to secure bond refunds.

• Provide honest and accurate information in all visa applications.