Key Facts
- —What happened Uganda’s immigration directorate confirmed on 2 October 2026 that travellers no longer need a yellow fever vaccination certificate; it does not appear in the electronic visa portal.
- —Who it hits Tourists, business travellers and expats entering Uganda no longer need to present the certificate at the border.
- —The catch Some official and foreign-government pages still list the old requirement, creating confusion for travellers and airlines.
- —The numbers International passenger traffic reached 2.48 million in 2025, up from about 118,000 in 1991 when the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority began; the government targets 6 million passengers.
- —What comes next Uganda’s immigration authority advised travellers to seek clarification from its public-relations office while guidance is synchronised.
Uganda has confirmed that travellers no longer need a yellow fever card to enter, easing paperwork for expats, investors and regional travellers.
Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control confirmed on 2 October 2026 that travellers no longer need a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter the country. The certificate does not appear in Uganda’s electronic visa portal.
What changed for travellers
The yellow fever card had been a standard entry document for years. Its removal means tourists, business visitors and returning residents can complete visa formalities without proving vaccination against the mosquito-borne disease.
The change applies to the electronic visa system, which most foreign nationals use before flying to Entebbe. Uganda’s immigration authority confirmed the certificate is no longer part of the online application process.
For expats and frequent regional travellers, the shift cuts one layer of paperwork. It also removes a common source of last-minute airport stress for those who arrived without the card.
The aviation and tourism push behind the move
Uganda’s civil aviation figures show international passenger traffic of 2.48 million in 2025, up from about 118,000 in 1991 when the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority began. Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama cited that growth when Jambojet resumed flights between Entebbe and Nairobi.
The government has set a target of 6 million passengers. Removing the yellow fever card requirement is one step in a broader effort to make Uganda a more frictionless destination.
Easier entry supports Kampala’s ambition to capture more regional tourism and commercial traffic. The policy aligns with Uganda’s push to use aviation and connectivity as engines of economic growth.
Confusion remains across official guidance
The policy is not yet consistently reflected in other guidance. Uganda’s East African Tourist Visa page still listed the certificate, and United Kingdom travel guidance also retained the older requirement.
That gap creates a risk of confusion for travellers and airlines. A passenger checking a foreign advisory could still prepare for a document that Uganda no longer demands.
Uganda’s immigration authority advised travellers to seek clarification from its public-relations office. Until all platforms are updated, carrying the certificate may still be the safest option for risk-averse travellers.
Regional competition and cooperation
Uganda’s joint East African Tourist Visa links it with Kenya and Rwanda. The resumption of Jambojet flights between Entebbe and Nairobi underscores both competition and cooperation over East African air links.
The health-policy shift could create reputational and operational risks if border officials, airlines and foreign advisories are not synchronised. Smooth implementation matters as much as the announcement itself.
What it means for expats and investors
For expats already living in Uganda, the change mainly affects visiting family members and short-term business guests. They can now arrive without arranging a yellow fever certificate in advance.
For investors and professionals scouting opportunities, fewer entry hurdles lower the cost of exploratory trips. Uganda is positioning itself as an easier place to do business from the first point of contact.
What to watch next
The key test is whether airlines and foreign governments update their guidance quickly. Until they do, travellers may face mixed signals at check-in counters and border posts.
Uganda’s immigration authority has pointed travellers to its public-relations office for clarification. A formal update to the East African Tourist Visa page would be the clearest signal that the policy is fully operational.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need a yellow fever certificate to enter Uganda?
No. Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control confirmed on 2 October 2026 that the certificate is not required, and it does not appear in the electronic visa portal.
Are airlines and foreign governments aware of the change?
Not all of them. Some official and foreign-government pages, including the East African Tourist Visa page and United Kingdom guidance, still list the old requirement.
What should I do if I am unsure before travelling?
Uganda’s immigration authority advised travellers to seek clarification from its public-relations office until all guidance is synchronised.
Is the East African Tourist Visa affected?
Uganda’s East African Tourist Visa page still listed the certificate on 2 October 2026, so holders should ask the immigration authority’s public-relations office before travelling.
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Sources
This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error · Editorial responsibility: Matthias Camenzind, Editor-in-Chief
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