Museveni Calls for Relaxation of Visa Rules to Boost Tourism

President Yoweri Museveni has urged the Ministry of Internal Affairs, through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control, to ease Uganda’s visa requirements by introducing a three-year multiple-entry visa for tourists.

He questioned why visitors who come to spend money in Uganda are required to renew visas every three months, stressing that tourism is a key driver of national development.

Museveni made the remarks while opening the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026 at the Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo in Kampala. He noted that Uganda is already in the lower-middle-income category and said strong tourism growth will help the country move further up the income ladder.

He reaffirmed government commitment to supporting the tourism sector, saying it is closely linked to services such as entertainment, ICT, and hospitality, all of which contribute to improving Uganda’s global visibility and economic status.

“The presence of tourists here contributes to advancing our economy towards a higher middle-income level and even a first-world status,” he said.

Museveni further questioned the need for short-term visas, arguing that tourists should be allowed more flexibility.

“I don’t know why they have been giving short visas of three months. Some countries like the U.S. give even three-year visas. What are you worried about? Give them three years multiple-entry visas,” he said.

He added that tourists should be free to come and go as long as they can afford their expenses, promising that the issue will be further discussed.