Any person wishing to transit live animals or animal products through Uganda must obtain authorization from the Department of Animal Resources under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). This process ensures that all transiting animals and related products comply with international health and safety standards, reducing the risk of disease transmission.
The transit permit serves as official clearance for moving animals or animal-derived goods through Uganda to another destination country.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Submit a Written Application
Applicants must make a written application to the Department of Animal Resources at least three (3) days before the planned transit date. The request should specify details such as the type of animals or products, route of transit, and destination country.
Step 2: Attach Required Documents
Attach the following documents to your application:
- Import permit from the destination country, confirming authorization to receive the goods.
- Veterinary health certificate confirming the health status of the animals or safety of the animal products.
- Invoice and packing list for the shipment.
- Air waybill or Bill of Lading (depending on mode of transport).
- Proof of ownership for pets or personal animals.
Incomplete submissions or missing health certificates will delay processing.
Step 3: Inspection and Verification
Upon receipt of the application, the Directorate for Animal Resources will review the documents and verify their authenticity.
At the port of entry or exit, a veterinary inspector will:
- Conduct a physical inspection of the live animals or products.
- Perform disinfection where necessary, in compliance with World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) standards.
- Direct animals to quarantine facilities if there are any health concerns.
The applicant bears the cost of inspection or quarantine.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
If all documents and health checks are satisfactory, the Directorate for Animal Resources will issue a Live Animal Transit Permit.
This document authorizes the applicant to move animals or animal products through Uganda under strict supervision by veterinary officers.
Step 5: Exit and Compliance
At the exit point, the veterinary officer will confirm that all transiting animals or products match the details on the permit. Any discrepancies may lead to detention or cancellation of the permit.
Required Documents
Applicants must provide the following:
- Duly filled application form
- Import permit from the destination country
- Veterinary health certificate
- Invoice and packing list
- Air waybill / Seaport landing bill / Bill of Lading
- Report of veterinary inspection on the animals’ health
Office Contact Information
Department of Animal Health – Head Office
Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF)
Plot 16–18 Lugard Avenue, Entebbe, Uganda
P.O. Box 102, Entebbe
Tel: +256 414 320004
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.agriculture.go.ug
Eligibility
- All residents and foreigners transporting live animals or animal products through Uganda.
- Foreign tourists with a valid visa and animal transfer licence.
- Commercial and non-commercial animal transporters holding valid documentation from their country of origin and destination.
Fees
Transit permit issuance fees are determined by the licensing authority and vary depending on:
- The type and number of animals or products.
- The mode of transport (air, sea, or road).
- The destination country’s requirements.
Applicants must pay the prescribed fees before the permit is issued.
Validity
The transit permit is valid for one year and expires on December 31st of the year of issue, unless revoked earlier due to non-compliance.
Processing Time
Processing typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of documentation and inspection schedules.
Important Instructions
- All animals and animal products must be declared at the port of entry and exit.
- The permit holder must comply with veterinary inspection procedures.
- In case of contamination or infection, disinfection or quarantine will be enforced.
- False information or forged documents will lead to cancellation of the permit and possible prosecution.
Required Information
Applicants must provide:
- Full name, nationality, and contact details
- Purpose of transit (commercial, breeding, or personal)
- Description and quantity of animals or animal products
- Vehicle or carrier details (registration, type, and capacity)
- Business or company name (if applicable)
- Identification documents (passport or national ID)
- Declaration form and vehicle inspection certificate
Need for the Document
The Live Animal Transit Permit ensures that all animals and products moving through Uganda meet international biosecurity, animal health, and safety standards.
It prevents the spread of infectious diseases and supports compliance with OIE and East African Community (EAC) animal health regulations.
Additional Information
- The Directorate for Animal Resources reserves the right to detain or quarantine animals in case of suspicion of disease.
- Owners are responsible for all associated transport, feeding, and veterinary costs during inspection or quarantine.
- Permits are non-transferable and must be renewed annually if operations continue.
