KAMPALA – The Ministry of Internal Affairs has warned the public against fake online electronic visa application sites, where unscrupulous individuals are taking advantage of unsuspecting applicants to demand for money.
Addressing journalists at Uganda Media Centre in Kampala on Thursday, the acting Director for Citizens and Immigration Control, Mr Mercellino Bwesigye, announced the visa application fees and the site through which one can apply for a visa online.
“We would like to warn our esteemed clients of the existence of scam sites which either charge our clients exorbitantly or defraud them totally. We have released the correct rates and government will not be responsible for the loss of money. We shall also take all those reported for fraudulently issuing passports into the books of law,” Mr Besigye said.
According to the immigration regulations, processing a visa would take someone anywhere between two to three working days without any additional charges.
The officials also said that one is not be charged for getting a Diplomatic Visa.
Mr Jacob Simunyu, the Internal Affairs ministry spokesperson, said: “We have received complaints that people have been asked more than Shs183,500 ($50). Some have been claiming they are going to first track applications and that is where our big concern is,” he said
According to the officials, one will be required to pay Shs183,500 (USD 50) for an ordinary/Tourist visa, Shs367, 000 ($100) for an East Africa tourist visa and Shs183,500 (USD 50) for a transit visa. A multiple entry visa for six months is at Shs367,000 ($100) while a multiple entry visa for 24 months Shs550,600 ($150).
Mr Bwesigye said their portal provides a range of services which include visas to Uganda, work permits, certificates of permanent residence, student passes and defendants passes at official fees
“Diplomatic visas are issued at no cost and are available on www.visas immigration.go.ug,” he added.
In 2016, government introduced E-Visa application system, with the aim of attracting more investments. The new system was aimed at eliminating bureaucratic procedures.
