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Uganda Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Looking to sponsor an international hire in Uganda? This guide breaks down what employers need to know — from visa types to employer obligations and timelines. Whether you're hiring locally or relocating international talent, we've got you covered.

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Capital City

Kampala

Currency

Ugandan Shilling

(

USh

)

Timezone

EAT

(

GMT +3

)

Payroll

Monthly

Employment Cost

10.00%

Milani Notshe

Research Specialist

Last Updated

July 29, 2025

In This Guide

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Hiring Foreign Talent in Uganda: What Employers Need to Know

Are you an employer looking to sponsor international talent in Uganda? Navigating Uganda’s visa and work permit process can be complex — especially without a local legal entity or dedicated HR team.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about employer-sponsored work visas in Uganda, including processing times, documentation, and local compliance rules. Whether relocating a team member or hiring locally, Playroll simplifies visa sponsorship through an end-to-end employer of record platform.

Key Takeaways

Employers must sponsor work permits, providing a cover letter justifying the need for foreign expertise in Uganda.

Processing times for work permits range from 4–6 weeks, with potential delays if documentation is incomplete.

Fees include $0 for Class A, $1,250-$7,500 Class B1 and Class D Entry Permits.

Employers must ensure compliance with company registration and local labor laws to support visa applications.

Work permits are valid for 1–2 years, renewable with updated contracts and documentation.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Uganda

Any foreign national who intends to work in Uganda requires a valid work permit. This applies to expatriates hired for skilled roles, professionals working in specific industries, and business investors. Whether the employment is temporary or long-term, obtaining the appropriate work permit is mandatory for legal employment in the country. Employers are responsible for ensuring their international employees have the correct authorization before they commence work.

Types of Work Permits and Visas in Uganda

In Uganda, work permits (known as entry permits) and work visas serve different functions. Work permits grant foreign professionals the right to legally work in the country. Employers are responsible for sponsoring and applying for this document after their employees' arrival in the country. On the other hand, a work visa allows entry into Uganda but does not permit the employment of foreign workers. This document is obtained before arrival in Uganda and needed in order to apply for a work permit.

Uganda's Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) issues several classes of entry permits for foreign nationals seeking to work in Uganda. Employers must select the appropriate permit type for their employees based on their roles. :

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Work Permit Type	Description
Class A	Issued to government and diplomatic officials employed by the Ugandan government.
Class A2	For holders of diplomatic or official passports and employees of organizations exempted from immigration fees.
Class B1	Issued to shareholders of companies engaged in agriculture or animal husbandry.
Class B2	For shareholders of companies involved in agro-processing.
Class C1	Issued to shareholders of companies engaged in prospecting or mining of minerals.
Class C2	For shareholders of companies engaged in prospecting or mining specific minerals like gold, copper, iron ore, silica, phosphate, limestone, and marble.
Class D	Issued to shareholders of companies engaged in general trade.
Class E	For shareholders of companies engaged in manufacturing.
Class F	Issued to shareholders of companies engaged in specific professions such as medical, legal, engineering, accounting, architecture, surveying, veterinary, estate agency, valuation, nursing, and midwifery.
Class G1	For missionaries and volunteers working in NGOs.
Class G2	For foreign expatriates employed in Uganda, including salaried employees working in NGOs.
Class H	For expatriates with rare skills employed in agro-processing, manufacturing, and mining of selected minerals.

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Should an individual want to conduct business in Uganda, they would have to apply for a Tourist/Business e-Visa. This authorization document allows foreign nationals to conduct business-related activities (such as attending conferences, seminars, training, or meetings) in Uganda for 30 to 90 days, however, this is not a path to legal employment in the country. Should an individual wish to work in the country, they should apply for the relevant entry permit.

Common Hiring Scenarios for Uganda

When hiring talent in Uganda, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.

Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa

This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Uganda. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.

Key Employer Considerations:

Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
Processing timelines vary (approximately 4-6 weeks on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.

This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Uganda.

Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Uganda

Independent professionals in Uganda can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.

With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:

Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Vietnamese Dong (VND) or USD.
Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.

This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Uganda.

Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Uganda

Transferring an existing team member to Uganda? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.

EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:

Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.

This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Asia, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.

Not Sure What to Pay in Uganda? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements For a Work Permit in Uganda

Employers must gather and submit specific documentation to secure a work permit for their international employees in Uganda.

Application Form: Completed and signed work permit application form.
Passport Copy: A valid passport with at least six months' validity.
Cover Letter: A letter from the employer explaining the need for the hire.
Curriculum Vitae: Detailed CV or resume of the applicant.
Academic Certificates: Proof of the applicant's qualifications and skills.
Employment Contract: A signed contract between the employer and the employee.
Proof of Company Registration: Registration documents for the employer's business in Uganda.

Uganda Work Permit Application Process

Step 1: Gather all necessary documents, including the completed application form and supporting documents.
Step 2: Submit the application to the Department of Immigration in Uganda or via the online portal.
Step 3: Pay the applicable work permit fee.
Step 4: Wait for the application to be processed and approved.
Step 5: Once approved, collect the work permit and ensure the employee begins work legally.

Process for Visa Sponsorship In Uganda

In Uganda, employers must sponsor the work permit application for their international hires. This involves submitting a cover letter explaining the hire's purpose, providing proof of company registration, and demonstrating the need for foreign expertise. Sponsorship also includes committing to the employee's compliance with immigration laws throughout their employment.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Uganda

Fees for Ugandan Entry Permits vary depending on the type and duration. The table below show the fee range for each entry permit type. Please note that some entry permit classes may require a pre-payment fee in addition to the application fee. For example, a Class B1 (Agriculture) Entry Permit for a duration of 12 months has a pre-payment fee of 1,500 USD and application fee of 1,000 USD. The fees below show the total cost (the pre-payment fee plus application fee) of each entry permit:

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Entry Permit Type	Entry Permit Fees
Class A	0 USD
Class A2	250 USD - 1,500 USD
Class B1	1,250 USD - 7,500 USD
Class B2	400 USD - 1,200 USD
Class C1	1,250 USD - 7,500 USD
Class C2	400 USD - 1,200 USD
Class D	1,250 USD - 7,500 USD
Class E	400 USD - 1,200 USD
Class F	1,500 USD - 9000 USD
Class G1	250 USD - 750 USD
Class G2	1,250 USD - 7,500 USD
Class H	750 USD - 4,500 USD

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Note: The above fees reflect government fees for entry permits in Uganda, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Uganda

Processing times for work permits in Uganda typically range between 4 to 6 weeks. Delays can occur if documentation is incomplete or additional verification is needed. Employers should apply well in advance of the employee's start date to avoid disruptions.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Uganda

Work permits in Uganda are usually issued for 1 to 2 years and can be renewed. Employers must initiate the renewal process before the current permit expires, ensuring all updated documents and fees are submitted to avoid penalties or work disruptions.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Uganda

While Uganda does not yet have a specific digital nomad visa, remote workers can apply for a tourist visa or business visa if they intend to visit Uganda for business-related purposes.

Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
Proof of Income: Evidence of sufficient funds to support the stay.
Accommodation Details: Confirmation of residence during the stay.
Return Ticket: Proof of onward or return travel.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Uganda

Employers hiring international employees in Uganda may face several challenges.

Bureaucratic Delays: Processing times can be slow due to bureaucratic hurdles.
Compliance Issues: Ensuring all documentation is correct can be complex.
Cultural Differences: Understanding workplace expectations and norms is key to a smooth integration process.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.

Disclaimer

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Milani Notshe

Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.

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FAQs about Work Permits & Visas in Uganda

Can Playroll sponsor a visa in Uganda?

Yes, Playroll can sponsor work visas in Uganda. As the legal employer, we manage the full visa process with local authorities — from documentation to approvals — ensuring your hire is compliant and ready to work. Whether you're relocating a team member or hiring in Uganda, our experts will guide you step by step.

Want to get started? book a demo and we’ll walk you through the process.

What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa in Uganda?

A work visa allows entry into Uganda but doesn't permit employment. It's obtained before arrival. Whereas, an entry permit grants the legal right to work in Uganda. It requires employer sponsorship and is applied for after arrival.