Planning a journey from the vibrant rhythms of Brazil to the “Pearl of Africa” is an adventure of a lifetime. Whether you are a resident of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, or Brasília, the lush landscapes of Uganda—ranging from the source of the Nile to the mist-covered mountains of Bwindi—are now more accessible than ever.
Since 2021, the Ugandan government has transitioned to a fully digital immigration system. This means the days of “Visa on Arrival” are over. To ensure your trip starts smoothly, you must secure your electronic visa (e-Visa) before departing from Brazil. This guide provides an exhaustive look at everything you need to know about Uganda e-Visa from Brazil.
Do Brazilian Citizens Need a Visa for Uganda?
Yes. All Brazilian passport holders are required to obtain a valid visa to enter Uganda. Because Brazil is not on the visa-exempt list for Uganda, you must apply via the official e-Immigration portal. The e-Visa is an official document that allows entry and travel within Uganda and is electronically linked to your passport number.
How to Apply for a Uganda e-Visa Online from Brazil?
The Uganda eVisa application process is designed to be user-friendly, but it requires precision. Follow these steps:
- Data Entry: Fill in your personal information exactly as it appears on your Brazilian passport.
- Upload Documents: Attach your scans in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format (ensure they are under 250KB each).
- Payment: Use a credit or debit card (Visa or Mastercard) to pay the non-refundable fee.
- Approval: You will receive an “Approval Letter” via email. You must print this out and present it to the immigration officer upon arrival at Entebbe.
What are the Document Requirements for Brazilians to apply for Uganda eVisa?
To avoid delays, gather these digital copies before starting your application:
- Passport Copy: The bio-data page (with your photo and details). It must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
- Recent Passport Photo: A digital photo with a plain white background, taken within the last 6 months.
- Travel Itinerary: A summary of your flight dates and planned activities.
- Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking confirmations or a letter of invitation from a host in Uganda.
- Yellow Fever Certificate: This is a mandatory requirement. Without proof of vaccination, entry will be denied.
- Financial Proof: Although not always checked at the border, the e-Visa portal often requires a bank statement or proof of sufficient funds (approximately $50 USD per day of stay).
How many types of Uganda eVisa and Validity?
Uganda offers several tiers of visas depending on the nature and length of your stay:
| Visa Type | Number of Entries | Max Stay | Validity |
| Transit Visa | Single | 7 Days | 90 Days |
| Tourist e-Visa | Single | 90 Days | 90 Days |
| Tourist e-Visa | Multiple | 90 Days | 180 Days |
| Tourist e-Visa | Multiple | 90 Days | 365 Days |
| Tourist e-Visa | Multiple | 90 Days | 730 Days |
| East Africa Visa | Multiple | 90 Days | 90 Days |
If you plan to visit Kenya or Rwanda during the same trip, the East Africa Tourist Visa is the most cost-effective and convenient option, as it covers all three countries under one permit.
What is the Uganda e-Visa Processing Time for Brazilian Citizens?
Processing times can vary based on the volume of applications and the accuracy of your submission.
- Normal Processing: 6–9 Working Days. Best for those planning months in advance.
- Rush Processing: 4–7 Working Days. A middle-ground for those departing soon.
- Super Rush Processing: 3–5 Working Days. Essential for last-minute business or emergency travel.
What Kind of Passport Do I Need to Visit Uganda?
You must hold a Standard/Ordinary Passport. Diplomatic or Service passport holders may have different requirements or exemptions. Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. If your passport is damaged or has less than six months of validity, renew it in Brazil before applying for the e-Visa.
Can I Extend My e-Visa While Staying in Uganda?
Yes. If you decide you need more time to explore, you can apply for an extension. This is done through the e-Immigration portal under the “Permit/Extension” section or by visiting the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control in Kampala. Extensions are usually granted for 30 to 60 days, provided you apply before your current visa expires.
Can I Work in Uganda with a Tourist e-Visa?
Absolutely not. The Tourist e-Visa is strictly for holiday, tourism, or visiting friends/family. If you intend to work, volunteer, or engage in business activities, you must apply for a specific Work Permit (Class G2 for volunteers/missionaries or other relevant classes for employees). Working on a tourist visa is a serious offense that can result in fines or deportation.
What is the Uganda Transit eVisa?
If your flight from Brazil has a long layover in Entebbe and you wish to leave the airport to visit Kampala or a nearby site, you must have a Transit Visa.
- Stay Limit: Maximum 7 days.
- Requirement: You must show a visa for your final destination (if required) and a confirmed onward flight ticket.
How to Avoid Common e-Visa Rejection?
A rejection can ruin your travel plans. Most rejections are due to:
- Poor Image Quality: If your passport scan is blurry or the photo is too dark, the system will reject it.
- Incorrect Visa Type: Applying for a single-entry visa when your itinerary shows you leaving and re-entering from Rwanda.
- Missing Yellow Fever Card: This is the most common reason for Brazilian travelers to face issues at the border.
- Inconsistent Dates: Your application dates must match your flight itinerary.
Can I bring Medicines from Brazil?
Uganda is a tropical country. Beyond the mandatory Yellow Fever vaccine, consider:
Yes, You can bring personal medications, but keep them in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription (translated into English if possible).
Use mosquito repellent and consult your Brazilian doctor about antimalarial pills.
How is Currency Used in Uganda?
The Ugandan Shilling (UGX) is the local currency.
- Cash is King: While credit cards work in high-end hotels in Kampala, cash is necessary for markets and rural lodges.
- USD Notes: If you bring US Dollars, ensure they are printed after 2006. Older notes are often rejected or given a very poor exchange rate.
How to Stay Connected to the Internet in Uganda?
Uganda has a decent 4G network in major cities.
- SIM Cards: You can purchase a SIM card from MTN or Airtel at Entebbe Airport. You will need your passport and a thumbprint for registration.
- WiFi: Most lodges and hotels offer free WiFi, though it may be limited to the lobby areas.
What is the best way to travel around Uganda?
- Taxis: Download the Uber or Bolt app for safe travel within Kampala.
- Boda-Bodas: These motorcycle taxis are fast but can be dangerous; always wear a helmet if you use them.
Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) Valid in Uganda?
If you plan to rent a car and drive yourself, you should carry an International Driving Permit along with your Brazilian driver’s license. Remember, in Uganda, people drive on the left side of the road!
Conclusion
Securing your Uganda e-Visa from Brazil is the first step toward an unforgettable African journey. By preparing your documents in advance—specifically your Yellow Fever certificate and a clear passport scan—you can navigate the digital application with ease.