How to Apply for a Uganda Medical Visa Online or at Embassy

A Uganda Medical Visa is issued to foreign nationals who require medical treatment from recognized hospitals or specialized treatment centers within Uganda. It allows travelers to enter Uganda for medical purposes for a stay of up to six months. Applicants can apply online or in person at a Ugandan embassy or mission abroad.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in Uganda.
• A valid passport or travel document is required.
• Applicants must present proof of medical referral or an invitation from a recognized Ugandan hospital.
• Children below 16 years are exempted from paying visa fees.
• Applicants with contagious diseases (such as Ebola) are not eligible for this visa.

Application Methods

1. Online Application

1. Visit the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control portal (under the Ministry of Internal Affairs).
2. Click “Start a New Application.”
3. Accept the terms and conditions to proceed.
4. Under visa or permit type, select “Medical Visa.”
5. Choose your duration of stay (the subcategory will update automatically).
6. Fill out the application form accurately and verify all information.
7. Upload all required scanned documents (see list below).
8. Review and submit your application.
9. Pay the USD $50 visa fee through the online payment portal.
10. Wait for confirmation via email or SMS. Processing typically takes 2 working days.

2. In-Person Application

1. Write a detailed, signed cover letter addressed to the Director of Immigration Services explaining your reason for travel.
2. Visit the nearest Ugandan Embassy or Mission Abroad.
3. Obtain and fill out the Application for a Visa form, selecting “Medical” as your purpose of travel.
4. Pay the USD $50 medical visa fee and retain the payment receipt.
5. Attach all required documents to your application form.
6. Submit your complete file to the visa officer.
7. Wait approximately 5 working days for review.
8. Collect your visa with proof of identification when notified.

Required Documents

• Valid passport (minimum six months validity, at least one blank page)
• Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
• Cover letter requesting a medical visa
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Recommendation letter from your doctor or hospital abroad specifying treatment details
• Invitation letter from a recognized Ugandan hospital
• Copy of latest bank statement proving financial capacity to cover medical costs
• Onward or return ticket
• Proof of visa payment receipt

Fees

• Medical Visa fee: USD $50
• Children under 16 years: Exempted from visa fees
• All visa fees are non-refundable

Validity and Duration of Stay

• The medical visa is valid for 3 months before travel once issued.
• Upon arrival, you may be granted a stay period of up to 90 days, renewable once for another 90 days at immigration headquarters.
• Maximum total stay: 6 months.

Processing Time

• Online: 2 working days
• In-person: 5 working days
  Applicants are advised to apply at least 3 weeks before travel but can apply up to 6 months in advance.

Office Contacts

Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC)
Ministry of Internal Affairs
Plot 75 Jinja Road, Kampala, Uganda
P.O. Box 7165 / 7191
Tel: +256 414 595 945
Fax: +256 414 348 707
Email: [email protected]

Important Notes

• Visa approval does not guarantee entry; immigration officers at the point of entry have final discretion.
• Engaging in employment or business on a medical visa is illegal.
• Travelers with travel documents (not national passports) must apply through the nearest Ugandan Mission, not online.
• Incomplete applications will be rejected.
• Always carry proof of identification when collecting or presenting your visa.