Uganda entry requirements for Switzerland passport holders

Checked daily · Updated May 17, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked

Swiss passport holders need an eVisa to enter Uganda. The application is entirely online, and you should have your approval before you travel. As of 2026, the process is straightforward, but getting the timing right is key.

Entry requirements

RequirementDetailsStatus
eVisa application
Uganda eVisa
Apply online at the Uganda eVisa portal before you fly. The system issues single-entry tourist visas valid for 90 days. Processing takes 2–3 business days, so apply at least a week ahead.Apply for eVisaRequired
Valid passport
6 months validity
Your Swiss passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Uganda. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding.Required
Return or onward ticket
Proof of departure
Immigration officers routinely ask for a confirmed onward or return flight. Have a printed or digital copy of your ticket ready. Without one, you risk being refused entry at Entebbe.Required
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation
Carry a hotel confirmation or a letter of invitation from your host in Uganda. Officers rarely ask, but having it on hand avoids delays at the counter.Recommended
Proof of funds
Sufficient cash or card
Officers may ask how you plan to fund your stay. Have at least $200 USD in cash or a credit card with available limit. ATMs are available in Kampala but not everywhere.Recommended
Apply early — processing can be slow
The eVisa system sometimes takes longer than advertised, especially around holidays. Don't wait until the last week. Apply at least 2 weeks before departure.
Keep your eVisa letter handy
Print a copy and save a PDF on your phone. You'll need it at airline check-in and again at Ugandan immigration. A screenshot of the email is not always accepted.

What happens at the border

1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to visas.immigration.go.ug, create an account, fill in the form, upload your passport scan and passport photo, and pay the fee (around $50 for a single-entry tourist visa). Processing takes 2–5 business days, sometimes longer. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip.
2
Receive your approval letter
You'll get an email with a PDF approval letter. Print it out and also save a copy on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival in Uganda.
3
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport
After landing, follow signs to 'Immigration'. Join the queue for 'Visitors with eVisa'. Hand over your passport, printed eVisa letter, and return ticket. The officer will take your fingerprints and a photo, then stamp you in. The whole process usually takes 15–30 minutes.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, pick up your bags from the carousel, then walk through customs. If you have nothing to declare, use the green channel.
Download Uganda Entry Checklist
PDF · Switzerland Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 2026
Download PDF

Staying longer & fees

Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:

Tourist eVisa (Single Entry)
Max stay90 days
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$50 USD (approx. CHF 45)

Standard tourist visa for single entry.

Tourist eVisa (Multiple Entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. CHF 90)

Allows multiple entries within validity period.

East Africa Tourist Visa
Max stay90 days
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. CHF 90)

Covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.

work visa
Work Permit
1 year, renewable
$200–$500 USD (approx. CHF 180–450) depending on category
For those with a job offer in Uganda. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
student visa
Student Pass
Duration of study, renewable annually
$50 USD (approx. CHF 45) per year
For enrolled students at recognized Ugandan institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
$500 USD (approx. CHF 450) initial fee
For those investing at least $100,000 USD in Uganda. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
ServiceCost
Tourist eVisa (Single Entry)Standard fee for a single-entry tourist visa, valid for 90 days from issue.$50 USD (approx. CHF 45)
Tourist eVisa (Multiple Entry)Allows multiple entries within 90 days, max stay 90 days per entry.$100 USD (approx. CHF 90)
East Africa Tourist VisaAllows multiple entries to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda within 90 days.$100 USD (approx. CHF 90)
Overstay FineCharged for each day overstayed beyond visa validity.$50 USD per day (approx. CHF 45)

Common reasons for entry denial

Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete visa application20%

Approval probability calculator

Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.

Transiting through Uganda

No transit visa needed

Swiss passport holders transiting through Uganda do not need a visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, if you need to enter Uganda (e.g., to change airports or overnight), a visa is required.

Airside transitAllowed
Transit hubsEntebbe International Airport (EBB)

Health & vaccines for Uganda

Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired for all travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, or if travelling from an endemic area.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk

Present throughout the country, especially in lowland areas. Prophylaxis recommended.

Dengue FeverModerate risk

Occurs in urban and rural areas, especially during rainy seasons.

SchistosomiasisModerate risk

Risk from swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers. Avoid contact with untreated water.

Malaria risk: high

Malaria is high throughout Uganda, including urban areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine) is strongly recommended. Use insect repellent and mosquito nets.

Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.

Immigration offices for extensions

Kampala
Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control
Plot 75 Jinja Road, Kampala
Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00

Main office for visa extensions and inquiries.

Entebbe
Entebbe International Airport Immigration Office
Entebbe International Airport
24/7

For visa-on-arrival and entry issues.

Practical information for CH travellers

Country basics
CapitalKampala
LanguageEnglish, Swahili
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 3 months; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyUgandan shilling (UGX)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 3,729.72 UGX
updated May 19
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h
vs Los Angeles+11h
Electricity
Voltage240V / 50Hz
Plug types
GType G (three rectangular prongs)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Police112
Medical112
US EmbassyFind contact

Frequently asked questions

Typically 2–5 business days, but it can take up to 10 days during peak season. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to be safe.
No. The eVisa is mandatory for Swiss passport holders. You will not be allowed to board your flight without an approved eVisa.
A single-entry tourist eVisa costs around $50 USD. You pay online by credit card during the application. There are also multiple-entry and transit options.
You will be denied entry. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. The 6 months are counted from your date of arrival in Uganda.
Yes. Uganda requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. Swiss travellers are not arriving from a risk country, but it's still strongly recommended to get the vaccine and carry the certificate — immigration may ask for it.
Yes, you can apply for an extension at the Immigration Headquarters in Kampala. Extensions are granted in 1-month increments and cost around $50 per month. Apply before your current visa expires.
Your passport, printed eVisa approval letter, return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation. Have them ready in your hand before you reach the desk.

Official sources

Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.