Visa policy update: UAE to block long-term visas for Ugandan nationals from January 2026
- Foreign News
- 23.09.2025
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Visa policy update: UAE to block long-term visas for Ugandan nationals from January 2026
The United Arab Emirates will stop issuing long-term visas to Ugandan citizens from January 2026, citing concerns about visa overstays and unlawful activity. Short-term travel will remain possible under stricter conditions.
The new UAE visa rule for Uganda
The UAE immigration authority has issued a circular indicating that, effective January 2026, long-term visas will no longer be issued to citizens of Uganda. Officials say the move targets risks associated with visa overstays and a rise in unlawful conduct by a minority of visitors. According to Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Oryem Henry Okello, this is not an outright travel ban: rather, it restricts issuance of long-term visas while short-term permissions remain available under certain conditions.
Which visas are affected?
- Blocked: Long-term visas (multi-year resident, long-stay work permits, and similar long-duration entries) for new applicants from Uganda.
- Allowed (subject to conditions): Short-term tourist visas and limited visit visas may still be granted but could require stricter screening and documentation.
Why did the UAE take this step?
UAE officials told Ugandan diplomats the decision followed concerns about overstaying and a rising number of unlawful activities attributed to some visitors. Analysts say the policy is consistent with broader Gulf state efforts to tighten migration controls, prevent illegal migration, and reduce criminal risks linked to visa misuse.
The restriction threatens Uganda’s labor export model. Remittances from Ugandan diaspora workers are a crucial economic lifeline: World Bank figures show Uganda received significant remittance inflows in recent years, supporting households and the national economy. Limiting long-term work and residency visas could reduce the number of Ugandans employed in the UAE and therefore lower remittance flows.
Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs described the decision as targeted rather than total: “There is no total ban,” he said. “They are going to put restrictions on Ugandans travelling to the UAE. There will be no long-term visas, only short-term visas, and some categories of people will not be able to receive visas.” At the time of reporting, Ugandan authorities said they would monitor the situation and had not immediately opened formal negotiations to reverse the directive.
The UAE has recently tightened visa rules for several countries across Africa and Asia. Over the last 12–18 months, similar measures have affected nations in the region for the same reasons: migration control, overstays and suspected criminality. Those actions show a pattern of stricter entry requirements rather than blanket diplomatic bans.
Practical guidance for Ugandans planning travel to the UAE
- Check visa type: Verify whether your intended travel requires a long-term permit or a short-term entry visa.
- Confirm existing visas: If you already hold a valid UAE visa or residence permit, contact UAE immigration or your sponsor for confirmation of validity.
- Prepare documentation: For short-term visas expect stronger evidence: bank statements, proof of accommodation, return ticket and a credible sponsor/employer where applicable.
- Use official channels: Apply through UAE embassy/consulate portals or licensed visa agencies — avoid third-party scams or unofficial intermediaries.
- Employers and recruiters: UAE companies hiring Ugandans should consult legal counsel or immigration experts to assess alternatives (temporary contracts, free-zone arrangements, or remote engagement where possible).
Experts expect Ugandan authorities to engage UAE counterparts diplomatically to seek clarification and, where possible, carve out exceptions for skilled workers, official delegations, and accredited professionals. Meanwhile, businesses that depend on Gulf remittances or migrant labour will likely explore alternative host countries and markets.
If you plan to travel or work in the UAE, keep checking official updates from the UAE immigration authority and the Uganda Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and consult licensed immigration or legal advisers for personalised guidance.
FAQ — Quick Answers
Is this a total travel ban?
No. Officials say it is not a total ban. Short-term visas will still be possible for some travellers, but long-term visas are suspended for new applicants. See More
Are Ugandans already in the UAE affected?
Generally, holders of valid UAE visas or residence permits are expected to retain their legal status. Any specific renewal or change request should be checked directly with UAE immigration. See More
When does the policy take effect?
The circular states the change begins in January 2026. Applicants should plan accordingly and seek early advice if travel is urgent. See More
