U.S. Slashes Visa Validity for Ugandans from Two Years to Three Months in Major Policy Shift

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The United States has made a major change to its visa policy for Ugandan nationals, drastically reducing the validity period of non-immigrant visas from 24 months to just 90 days. The U.S. Embassy in Kampala officially announced the new directive on Monday, stating that the change is effective immediately and will apply to all new applicants, including those renewing previously valid visas.

According to embassy officials, the move is part of an effort to recalibrate visa reciprocity between the two nations. The decision comes amid a broader reassessment of U.S. travel and immigration policies concerning foreign nationals and their respective countries’ treatment of U.S. citizens. “This adjustment aligns with updated reciprocity requirements and reflects a comprehensive review of our bilateral travel framework,” the embassy said in a statement. Officials did not cite any specific diplomatic conflict or incident as the reason for the sudden change, but observers point to a steadily cooling relationship between Washington and Kampala in recent years.

The new policy is expected to have a significant impact on thousands of Ugandan travelers, including business professionals, students, patients seeking medical treatment, and academics who rely on longer-term U.S. visas for recurring travel. Previously, holders of B1/B2 visitor visas could enter the U.S. multiple times over a two-year span. Under the new rules, visas will be valid for only three months, though the number of entries allowed will still be determined at the discretion of consular officers.

The reduced visa duration introduces uncertainty and logistical challenges for Ugandans who must now reapply more frequently. It also places an added financial burden on those who travel regularly for professional, academic, or medical reasons.

Several travel agencies in Kampala report a wave of concern and confusion following the embassy’s announcement. “We’ve seen a spike in calls from clients—many are worried or even canceling their plans altogether,” said Sarah Namuli, a visa consultant at Elite Travel Services. “The biggest concern is that this will turn into a costly and repetitive process for frequent travelers.”

While Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not released an official statement, a senior ministry official, speaking anonymously, acknowledged that the government is uneasy about the implications. “This change could weaken the close interpersonal and cultural ties that have historically existed between Ugandan citizens and Americans,” the official said.

Experts suggest the visa tightening may be an indirect signal from Washington reflecting its unease with Uganda’s domestic and regional policies. Uganda’s human rights record, along with its recent passage of controversial legislation that has drawn international criticism, may be factors contributing to the decision. “This is part of a broader, quiet message from the United States,” noted a senior East African diplomat based in Nairobi. “It shows a growing expectation for alignment with global standards, particularly in areas like governance, civil liberties, and rule of law.”

Despite the policy change, U.S. officials insist that Uganda remains an important partner and that the embassy remains open to welcoming qualified applicants. However, the shorter visa term may deter long-term professional and academic engagements, which often depend on extended visa durations to accommodate multi-year planning.

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Frequent travelers, especially those with medical needs or recurring professional commitments in the U.S., now face an unpredictable and more administratively demanding travel process. The embassy confirmed that the new visa rules are already in effect and apply to all applicants moving forward, signaling a new era of more restrictive travel options for Ugandan nationals engaging with the United States.