How to Apply for a Hotel License in Uganda

If you plan to operate a hotel in Uganda, obtaining a Hotel License from the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is mandatory. Below is a detailed guide on how to apply for a hotel license, the necessary documents, fees, and eligibility requirements.

In-Person Application Procedure

1. Visit the Uganda Tourism Board
   • To begin, visit the Uganda Tourism Board located at Lugogo House, Plot 42 Lugogo Bypass, Kampala, Uganda.
2. Attend a Recognized Training Course
   • Before applying, the applicant must attend a training course approved by the Uganda Restaurant and Eatery Industry (UREI) for the specific type of hotel license.
3. Collect the Application Form
   • At the Uganda Tourism Board, request the Hotel License application form from the concerned officer.
4. Complete the Application Form
   • Accurately fill in the application form. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
5. Attach Required Documents
   • Ensure you attach all required documents, including:
     • Proof of business registration
     • Building plans and hotel specifications
     • Environmental impact assessment report
     • Fire safety certificate
     • Health and safety standards compliance
     • Tax Identification Number (TIN) certificate
     • Certificate of compliance from the local government
     • Police clearance for hotel management
     • Passport-sized photographs of the hotel proprietor(s)
     • Financial projections for the hotel
6. Pay the Application Fee
   • Pay the prescribed fee of UGX 540,583 and submit the receipt as proof of payment.
7. Site Inspection and Approval
   • The relevant authorities may conduct a site inspection to ensure that the hotel premises meet required standards and regulations.
8. Final Approval and License Issuance
   • Once the inspection is successful, the Uganda Tourism Board will approve the application and issue the Hotel License, which will specify the terms and conditions under which you can operate the hotel.
9. Processing Time
   • The entire process typically takes 25 days, or as advised by the respective authority.

Required Documents

• Application form (completed)
• Proof of business registration
• Building plans and specifications
• Environmental impact assessment report
• Fire safety certificate
• Health and safety compliance
• Tax Identification Number (TIN)
• Certificate of compliance from local government
• Police clearance for management
• Passport-sized photographs of the proprietor(s)
• Financial projections

Eligibility

To be eligible for a hotel license in Uganda, you must:

• Be a legal entity registered in Uganda.
• Have a minimum paid-up capital of UGX 200 million (USD 50,000) for a hotel with 50 rooms or more, or UGX 100 million (USD 25,000) for a hotel with less than 50 rooms.
• Submit a feasibility study and environmental impact assessment for the proposed hotel.
• Have the technical and financial capacity to carry out the hotel project.
• Be able to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Have a valid Hotel Manager’s License.

Fees

• The license application fee is UGX 540,583.

License Validity

• The Hotel License is valid for 5 years and can be renewed for another 5-year term.

Office Locations & Contacts

• Uganda Tourism Board
  Physical Address: Plot 42, Lugogo Bypass, Kampala, Uganda
  Postal Address: P.O. Box 7211, Kampala, Uganda
  Contact Email: [email protected]
  Website: UGANDA TOURISM BOARD
  Phone: +256 414 320004

Need for the Document

The Hotel License is required to legally operate a hotel in Uganda. It ensures that the hotel meets the required health, safety, and regulatory standards and is compliant with the country’s tourism regulations.

Other Uses of the Document

In addition to allowing you to operate a hotel, the license helps to:

• Gain credibility and trust with guests and business partners.
• Access government services and incentives.
• Protect your investment from legal claims.
• Ensure compliance with Uganda’s hospitality industry standards.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for and obtain a Hotel License to operate a hotel legally in Uganda.