Uganda is one of Africa’s leading host countries for refugees, offering safety and protection to individuals fleeing persecution, political instability, or armed conflict. Asylum seekers can apply either at a refugee settlement or through the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in Kampala.
The process is overseen by the Refugee Department of the OPM in partnership with UNHCR Uganda and follows the guidelines of the Refugee Act, 2006 and Refugee Regulations, 2010.
Routes for Applying for Asylum in Uganda
A) Applying in a Refugee Settlement
If you arrive directly at a refugee settlement, the process is as follows:
- Report to the Settlement Commandant for registration.
- Undergo a refugee status determination (RSD) interview, conducted by a Sub-Committee of the Refugee Eligibility Committee (REC).
- Once granted refugee status, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) will allocate land for your household and provide:
- Food ration cards
- Non-food items (e.g., blankets, soap, kitchen sets)
- Basic shelter and assistance
- For any protection or safety concerns, report immediately to UNHCR staff stationed within the settlement.
Common settlements include Nakivale, Bidi Bidi, Kiryandongo, Rwamwanja, and Palorinya.
B) Applying in Kampala
If you arrive in Kampala, follow these steps:
- Report to the Crime Intelligence Office at Old Kampala Police Station for initial registration. You will be issued a registration card and given a date for further processing.
- On your appointment date, go to the Office of the Prime Minister – Refugee Department, with all dependents and relevant identification documents (passports, ID cards, school diplomas, or letters of support).
- Each adult (above 18 years) must register separately. Children are registered under their parents or guardians.
- You will be issued a Temporary Asylum Seeker Attestation, valid for 3 months, and renewable monthly while your case is under review.
- Attend your refugee status determination interview at the Crime Intelligence Office.
- Your case will be reviewed by the Refugee Eligibility Committee (REC), and the OPM will communicate the decision.
If approved, you will receive an official refugee identification card. If rejected, you have the right to appeal within 30 days.
Third-Country Resettlement
In rare cases, asylum seekers—especially journalists, politicians, or activists in danger—may be referred for third-country resettlement by UNHCR.
However, this process is not guaranteed and is available only for the most vulnerable individuals. It may take months or years to complete.
Required Documents
- Valid ID or Passport from your home country
- Educational certificates (if available)
- Letter of support or reference
- Any proof of persecution (media reports, threats, police reports, etc.)
- Dependents’ details (birth certificates or identification)
Office Locations & Contacts
1. Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) – Refugee Department
Plot 9–11 Apollo Kaggwa Road, Kampala
P.O. Box 341, Kampala, Uganda
+256 41 4231231
Office of the Prime Minister – Refugees
2. UNHCR Uganda
Plot 18, Prince Charles Drive, Kololo, Kampala
+256 41 4231231
[email protected]
UNHCR Uganda
3. Refugee Law Project (RLP)
P.O. Box 33903, Kampala, Uganda
+256 41 343556
[email protected]
Refugee Law Project
Eligibility
You may apply for asylum in Uganda if you are fleeing persecution, violence, or war in your home country due to:
- Political opinion or activism
- Ethnic or religious identity
- Membership in a social group
- Personal characteristics (e.g., gender, orientation, or beliefs)
Fees
The asylum application process in Uganda is completely free of charge.
Beware of individuals or organizations asking for payment in exchange for assistance.
Validity
- The Temporary Asylum Seeker Attestation is valid for 3 months.
- Once granted refugee status, the refugee ID card is renewable periodically and provides access to rights and services.
Processing Time
The asylum process typically takes one week or more to complete, depending on the volume of applications and case complexity.
Need for the Document
An asylum visa or refugee card protects individuals from deportation and grants legal status in Uganda.
It allows access to:
- Basic assistance (shelter, food, healthcare)
- Education for children
- Employment and movement within Uganda
- Support from international agencies like UNHCR and NGOs
Information Which Might Help
- Refugees must obey Ugandan laws and public order regulations.
- They must not engage in political activity or acts against other countries.
- Refugees with employment must pay taxes according to Ugandan law.
- Dependents over 18 years must apply for asylum independently.
- Uganda guarantees non-refoulement—refugees cannot be forcibly returned to danger.
Other Uses of the Document
- Ensures legal recognition and protection under Ugandan law.
- Facilitates access to social services, education, and humanitarian aid.
- Helps government and partners plan for refugee assistance.
