The East African Passport allows citizens of Uganda and other EAC member states to travel freely within the region. Introduced to simplify border crossings, it is valid for six months with multiple entries, and it can only be used for travel within the East African Community (EAC) region. Here’s how to apply for East African Passport in Uganda both in person and online.
Eligibility
An East African Passport may be issued to citizens of Uganda who intend to travel within EAC member states, which include Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and Uganda.
Application Procedure
Option 1: Apply in Person
- Visit the Immigration Department Office in your region to obtain the passport application form.
- Fill in the application form accurately with all required details.
- Pay the application fee at the designated bank.
- Proceed to the nearest Passport Centre for biometric enrolment.
- Submit the completed form along with the required documents.
- The immigration officer will verify your documents and forward your application for processing.
- You will receive a collection slip with the date to pick up your passport.
- Once ready, you’ll be notified to collect your passport from the centre where you applied.
Option 2: Apply Online
- Go to the official passport application portal.
- Accept the terms and conditions in the disclaimer.
- Answer the security questions provided.
- Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
- Print the Passport Application Payment Advice Form.
- Pay the application fees at your selected bank using the Payment Registration Number (PRN).
- Schedule an appointment for biometric enrolment at your preferred Passport Centre (Kampala, Mbale, Mbarara, Gulu, or Ugandan missions abroad).
- Print the Appointment Form and bring it to your appointment.
- Report to the centre with your printed appointment form and required documents for enrolment.
- After the interview, the passport will be processed and printed if you qualify.
Applicants who do not qualify will be notified immediately.
Required Documents
- Duly filled application form
- Copy of National ID of the applicant
- Copy of National ID of the recommender
- Academic certificates (for proof of profession, where applicable)
- Proof of payment of prescribed fees
- Birth certificate, adoption order, or parental consent letter (for minors)
- Any other relevant supporting documents
FeesThe East African Passport costs US$10 or the equivalent in local currency.
For international passports, the following fees apply:
- Ordinary Passport (48 Pages): UGX 250,000
- Service Passport (64 Pages): UGX 400,000
- Diplomatic Passport (64 Pages): UGX 500,000
- Express Processing Service: UGX 150,000
- Courier Service (for applicants abroad): UGX 10,000
- Certification of Passport: UGX 30,000
- Replacement for Lost/Damaged Passport: UGX 100,000
Validity
The East African Passport is valid for up to five years from the date of issue and can be renewed for another five years. However, the total validity period cannot exceed ten years in aggregate.
It also includes a six-month multiple-entry validity within the EAC region.
Processing Time
Applications are typically processed within 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the completeness of your documents and biometric enrolment.
Office Location & Contacts
Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control – Head Office
Ministry of Internal Affairs
Plot 75, Jinja Road, P.O. Box 7165 / 7191, Kampala, Uganda
Telephone: +256 414 595 945
Fax: +256 414 348 707
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.immigration.go.ug
Need for the Document
You need an East African Passport to travel freely between EAC countries without applying for separate visas.
Additional Information
The East African Community (EAC) is an intergovernmental organization made up of six countries in the African Great Lakes region: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The East African Passport not only promotes regional integration and mobility but also serves as an official travel document recognized by member states.
By following these steps to apply for East African Passport in Uganda, citizens can enjoy easier cross-border travel, faster immigration clearance, and greater access to opportunities within the East African Community.
