The United States has temporarily paused the issuance of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, including Uganda, effective January 21, 2026, as part of tighter immigration enforcement measures under the Trump administration.
According to a policy update issued by the U.S. Department of State, the pause applies strictly to immigrant visas and does not affect nonimmigrant visas, such as those issued for tourism, business, study, or skilled work. The measure will remain in place until U.S. authorities conclude enhanced vetting processes to ensure new immigrants meet eligibility requirements, including the ability to support themselves without relying on public assistance.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the decision is aimed at strengthening immigration controls while maintaining lawful travel channels.
Speaking during a press conference in Kampala, U.S. Ambassador to Uganda William W. Popp emphasized that nonimmigrant travel between Uganda and the United States remains open, but warned that misuse of visas has serious consequences.
“A nonimmigrant visa is a privilege granted for a specific purpose, not a right,” Ambassador Popp said. “Violating visa terms undermines legitimate travel and carries lasting consequences.”
Ms. Margaret A. Kafeero, Head of Public Diplomacy Department, and Mr. Evans Aryabaha, Head of Consular Services Department, joined US Ambassador to Uganda.
Visa Bond Requirement Introduced
As part of the same policy shift, the U.S. has expanded its Visa Bond Pilot Program to include Uganda. Under the new requirement, Ugandans eligible for B-1/B-2 business and tourist visas must now post a refundable visa bond of up to $15,000 before the visa can be issued.
The bond is fully refunded if the traveler complies with U.S. visa conditions, including departing the United States on time, not overstaying, and not violating U.S. laws. However, the bond may be forfeited if a traveler overstays, works illegally, violates visa conditions, or seeks to change immigration status, including applying for asylum.
U.S. consular officials clarified that applicants should not pay any bond before their visa interview. Payment instructions and the bond amount will only be provided if a consular officer determines the applicant qualifies for a visa.
Stricter Enforcement on Overstays and Misrepresentation
U.S. Consular Chief Tania Romanoff warned that Ugandans who misuse nonimmigrant visas risk deportation, permanent travel bans, and possible criminal prosecution under both U.S. and Ugandan law.
She noted that travelers are informed of their authorized stay by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers upon arrival, and overstaying—even unintentionally—can lead to removal and long-term ineligibility for U.S. visas.
Applicants who provide false information during visa applications or interviews will be denied visas and may face permanent bans from entering the United States.
Single-Entry, Short-Validity Visas Maintained
U.S. authorities reaffirmed that most nonimmigrant visas issued to Ugandans remain single-entry visas valid for three months, allowing only one attempt at entry into the U.S. during the validity period. The length of stay is determined at the port of entry, and travelers are encouraged to verify their “Admit Until” dates through the Department of Homeland Security’s I-94 system.
Despite the immigrant visa pause, the U.S. Embassy stressed that tourist, business, student, and other nonimmigrant visa categories remain unaffected, and visa interviews will continue as scheduled.
