Passport renewal in Uganda
Renewing an ordinary Ugandan passport involves applying to the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) either online or in person, providing necessary documentation, and attending an interview if required. The process ensures that individuals maintain a valid travel document.
It is generally advisable for individuals to begin the passport renewal process several months before their current passport expires. This allows ample time for potential appointment scheduling, processing, and delivery, which can sometimes experience delays.
Start 60 days ahead
This timeframe accounts for online application submission, potential appointment scheduling for biometrics/interview, and the standard processing time for the new passport. Waiting times for appointments and document processing can vary.
The process
- 1Access the official Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) passport application portal online.
- 2Fill out the online application form for passport renewal, ensuring all details are accurate.
- 3Pay the prescribed passport renewal fee through the integrated payment system or designated payment channels.
- 4Schedule an appointment for biometric capture and interview at a selected passport office location (e.g., Kampala, Gulu, Mbale, Mbarara, or Ugandan missions abroad).
- 5Attend the scheduled appointment with all required original documents and copies for verification and biometric data capture.
- 6Collect the new passport from the designated collection point once notified that it is ready.
What to bring
- Original expiring/expired passport
- National ID Card (original and copy)
- Recommendation letter from a Local Council (LC I) chairperson or other specified recommender
- Proof of payment for the renewal fee
- Passport-size photographs (some online systems may require digital upload)
- Additional documents as required (e.g., for change of name, profession, or if previous passport was lost/damaged)
Who handles it
Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) / Ministry of Internal Affairs
https://www.mia.go.ug/directorate/directorate-citizenship-and-immigration-control-dcic
The standard fee for a renewal of an ordinary Ugandan passport is typically 250,000 Ugandan Shillings (UGX). Fees for express processing, diplomatic passports, or passports applied for abroad may vary. It is important to confirm the current fee schedule on the official DCIC portal or with the relevant office.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all information entered in the online application exactly matches official documents to avoid delays or rejection.
- Double-check the specific requirements for your application, as additional documents may be needed for certain circumstances (e.g., lost passport, change of particulars).
- Be aware of varying processing times, especially during peak seasons, and plan accordingly.
- Only use the official government portal for applications and payments to avoid fraudulent services.
Sources
- Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control mia.go.ug
- Uganda E-Passport System (Application Portal) passports.go.ug
Other documents in Uganda
Passport renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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