A resident visa in Uganda is a license that allows a foreign national to dwell and work there for a set amount of time. It can be offered to a non-Ugandan person, fulfilling certain criteria. Those who intend to live in Uganda on a long-term basis are given a resident visa.

Uganda is not the country with the most powerful visas, but it has its perks. There are three options for those applying for residence in Uganda.

Through Long stay
For the long-stay option, the applicant must have,

• Lived lawfully and consistently in Uganda for at least ten years,
• Moral fibre and integrity
• Helped Uganda's social, economic, and intellectual development

For former citizens
The foreign citizens who once used to be Uganda nationals. They may stay in the country for five to ten years.

Through Marriage
The following requirements must be met by candidates in order to be eligible for marriage:

• Be lawfully wed for at least three years to a Ugandan national.
• Stay in the country legally.

The eligibility criteria for a certificate of residence differs as per the route you are taking. For instance, you must marry a Uganda national if you are applying through marriage. Similarly, you are expected to contribute to society if you are applying for a certificate of residence.

While applying for this visa, you must provide the following documents;

• A passport that will still be valid six months after your return to your native nation.
• A completely filled-out visa application form. Do not leave blank spots or provide inaccurate information on the application form.
• A recently taken photograph, attached to the documents
• Evidence that the applicant has influenced Uganda's socioeconomic and intellectual development
• Valid Interpol Good Conduct Certificate (issued within the last 6 months)
• A medical report from a reputable hospital
• Marriage licence and spouse's Ugandan consent (if applicable)
• Prove that you had been a citizen of Uganda if you are taking the former citizens' route.

The requirements for a long-term residence differ from person to person, depending on the route you are going to take. However, the process for visa processing is the same for everyone.

Visa Processing Time
The time required to process a visa may vary depending on various factors. It may be affected by the country you are applying from or the credentials you have provided. Generally, it is processed within a couple of weeks, but it can even take months in some cases.

How to Apply
The applications can be submitted online or by visiting the nearest embassy. Once the application is submitted, an immigration officer will review it. Please be aware that more information might be needed throughout the approval process.

You can electronically submit the updated information by using "Manage your applications." The applicant's provided email will receive an electronic decision regarding their application.

Duration
The certificate holders are allowed to stay in the country for five to ten years. This time period can even become indefinite if applied for. 

Fees
You are required to pay for this visa as per the route of application you are taking. For instance, those applying through marriage are required to pay 2,000 USD. At the same time, it may cost 3,000 to 4,000 USD for long-stay applicants.

You are allowed to extend your stay before it expires. The permit even allows you to stay in the country indefinitely if needed.

For how long am I allowed to stay in Uganda?
The duration of your stay depends on the kind of visa you have. The tourist or short-term business visas allow you only three months in the country. However, this stay can be for several years if you have a certificate of residence.

Is it easy for a foreigner to reside in Uganda?
The official languages are English and Swahili, and Uganda is a multilingual nation. Additionally, the nation has a vibrant, hospitable culture that makes it simple for foreigners to integrate. Additionally, most trips to Uganda are trouble-free.