Uganda’s Work Permit Reforms Already Boost Investment; Kambere Signals Key Visa Changes Coming
World Business Journal talks to Geoffrey Brian Kambere, Commissioner, Border and Foreign Nationals Management, DCIC, about changes made in issuing work permits, planned interventions in visa policy, and precautions to be taken while applying for work permits.
What recent changes have occurred in Uganda’s work permit categories?
Currently, there are 11 distinct classes of work permits, each tailored to meet the needs of the business community and foreign professionals. In 2021, the government introduced incentivised work permit categories specifically designed to promote investment in key sectors. These include B2 (Agro-processing), E (Manufacturing), C2 (Mining specific minerals), and G3 (Rare skilled professionals). To encourage participation, the statutory fees for these categories were substantially reduced from $ 2,500 to $ 400 annually.
The government further took a deliberate effort to reduce the cost of doing business in the country with the removal of the compulsory security bond fees and the introduction of a repatriation agreement. This agreement is between DCIC and the employer of the expatriate. At the end/termination of the contract, the expatriate will be removed from Uganda at the expense of the employer.
Applicants must meet specific criteria to qualify, including obtaining a Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) license, a valid mining license (for extractives), a Tax Clearance Certificate, and Interpol clearance, among others. The government emphasises the importance of protecting opportunities for Ugandans; therefore, companies hiring expatriates must demonstrate the absence of qualified local candidates.
The work permit application process is now fully automated and globally accessible online, with a standard processing period of 7 working days upon submission of all required documents. While physical interviews may be requested for verification purposes, they are not mandatory for all applicants.
Are there any planned interventions in visa policy and facilitation?
The government has planned interventions to improve facilitation and accessibility for travellers. Among them is a new business visa category designed for short-term visits ranging from a week to a month, intended to support business travel and improve monitoring of such movements.
There is also consideration for a 3-month multiple-entry tourist visa to encourage repeat visits and promote tourism.
How has your military background shaped your leadership and decision-making as Commissioner of Immigration?
My military background has shaped my leadership by instilling discipline, structure, and strategic clarity. It has also emphasised the importance of organisation and teamwork, which are crucial for managing complex processes.
In the military, decisions often carry immediate consequences; similarly, in immigration control, each decision impacts national security and public trust. This awareness has improved my focus on accuracy, thorough assessment, and accountability in decision-making.
Adapting to international standards, such as those from ICAO, further strengthened my capability to harmonise local procedures with global best practices, ultimately ensuring that Uganda maintains secure, fair, and efficient immigration services.
