The Ministry of Internal Affairs has issued a strong advisory to Ugandans seeking to travel to the United States, warning them to strictly adhere to visa guidelines or risk serious consequences including arrest, prosecution, and deportation.

Speaking during a media briefing at the Police Headquarters in Naguru on Monday, July 14, 2025, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC), Simon Peter Mudenyi, outlined a series of key requirements for Ugandan citizens intending to apply for US visas.

Mudenyi emphasized that all applicants must present genuine documents during their visa application process.

“Ensure all documents including diplomatic notes, bank statements, national IDs and any other document required by the US embassy must be genuine,” he stated.

Mudenyi noted that both Ugandan and US systems have the capacity to detect forged documents, making attempts at deception futile.

The immigration spokesperson called on citizens to strictly follow the US visa application process and requirements, particularly the terms of the visa granted.

“Do not engage yourself into overstay. If you have been given a visa, please restrict yourself to the visa that has been granted to you,” he said.

He advised Ugandans to observe the validity period of their visas and not to exceed the approved stay in the United States.

He also warned that Ugandans who violate visa terms could be deported in cooperation with US authorities.

“The government of Uganda will cooperate with the US government to deport those who overstay and face the law,” Mudenyi said.

Ugandans were further reminded to use their visas strictly for the purpose under which they were issued.

“Tourist visas, student visas and employment visas should be used for their intended purpose,” he noted.

Citizens were encouraged to use the ministry’s electronic systems for citizenship and document verification to ensure transparency and accuracy in applications.

“The ministry urges all applicants to act lawfully and responsibly to maintain strong diplomatic and migration relationships with the United States,” Mudenyi added.

The US Embassy, according to the ministry, has assured full cooperation with the Ugandan government as long as citizens comply with the outlined guidelines.