New U.S. Visa Policy for Ugandan Nationals: What Changed, Who It Affects, and What It Really Means

The U.S. Embassy in Kampala has implemented new visa policies affecting Ugandan applicants. These changes apply to certain nonimmigrant visas, introduce a visa bond requirement for some applicants, and include a temporary pause on immigrant visa issuance. Below is a clear breakdown of what has changed, who is affected, and what it actually means.

What Changed

1. Shortened Visa Validity for Nonimmigrant Visas

• Nonimmigrant visas (e.g., B-1/B-2 tourist/business visas) issued to Ugandan nationals are now generally valid for single entry and three months from the date of issuance.

• This replaces the prior practice of issuing longer multiple-entry visas.

2. Visa Bond Requirement Introduced

• Uganda was added to the U.S. visa bond pilot program in January 2026.

• Some B-1/B-2 visa applicants may now be required to post a refundable bond (often $5,000–$15,000) as a condition of visa issuance.

• The bond is returned if the traveler complies with visa terms and departs on time.

3. Temporary Pause on Immigrant Visa Issuance

• Immigrant visas (permanent residency visas) for Ugandan nationals are temporarily paused as part of a broader initiative covering multiple countries.

• Applicants may still file and interview, but issuance is on hold until further notice.

Who Is Affected

Travelers and Temporary Visitors

• B-1/B-2 applicants:

  • Must plan trips within the three-month validity window.

  • May be required to post a visa bond.

  • Valid visas issued before the policy change generally remain unaffected.

Students and Skilled Workers

• Students (F/M), exchange visitors (J), and work visa holders (e.g., H-1B) are not automatically subject to the three-month rule and bond requirement in every case but should be prepared for careful documentation and compliance.

Immigrant Visa Applicants

• Family- and employment-based immigrant travelers from Uganda will experience processing delays due to the pause in visa issuance.

What It Really Means

Not a Total Ban

• The policy does not prohibit travel by Ugandan citizens to the U.S.

• Nonimmigrant visas are still being issued under new conditions.

Not Retroactive for Previously Issued Visas

• Valid visas issued before the policy change typically remain valid according to their original terms.

Emphasis on Compliance

• The bond requirement and shorter validity reflect a push for stronger compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

• Overstays and misuse of visa status may lead to enforcement action and bond forfeiture.

Practical Takeaways

Plan Travel Carefully

• If you’re applying for a tourist or business visa, plan your travel within the three-month window.

• Schedule visa interviews well ahead of your intended travel date.

Prepare for the Possibility of a Bond

• If asked to post a visa bond, follow the consular officer’s instructions and pay through official channels.

Maintain Compliance

• Observe all terms of your visa and authorized period of stay.

• Departure on time helps ensure bond refund and future eligibility.

Immigrant Visa Applicants

• Continue filing and attending interviews as scheduled; remain prepared for additional processing time.

Bottom Line

The U.S. Embassy’s updated visa policy for Ugandan nationals introduces important new requirements but does not eliminate the opportunity to travel to, study, work, or immigrate to the United States. Applicants should be well informed, prepared for documentation and compliance, and thoughtful in planning travel or immigration strategies.

If you would like personalized guidance on how these changes might impact your specific case, please contact our office – Geofrey M. Law, LLC. Your 50-State Immigration Law Firm. For Immigration Advice You Can Trust.