‘Foreign affairs ministry to clarify Uganda’s US visa status’

Uganda is preparing to issue a diplomatic response following reports that it could be among 36 countries facing new US visa restrictions under President Donald Trump’s latest immigration directive.

The directive, reportedly targeting visa overstays and immigration fraud, could impact thousands of Ugandans with interests in travel, business, education, and family ties in the United States.

Speaking at a press briefing on June 17, 2025, at Mestil Hotel in Kampala—held during the National Development Plan III (NDP III) review by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance—State Minister Godfrey Kabbyanga confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would issue an official statement to Washington. However, he acknowledged every country’s sovereign right to determine who is allowed entry.

“We decide on who should enter our country and who shouldn’t. So I have no problem with that,” Kabbyanga said. “But the only thing I can say is the U.S. should always give reasons why they have not given anybody a visa. For us as Uganda, if we deny you a visa, we also tell you the reason.”

While he refrained from delving deeply into the broader policy implications, Kabbyanga conceded that some Ugandans’ misuse of visas—such as entering on tourist or business visas and later claiming persecution—could be among the reasons triggering the proposed restrictions.

“The U.S. are very sensitive these days when it comes to entry into their country,” he noted. “Some people go there on one visa and change their story. That creates problems.”

The proposed visa restrictions—part of a wider immigration crackdown by the Trump administration—are expected to affect countries deemed non-cooperative in accepting deported nationals, or those with high visa overstay rates. Uganda’s inclusion on the list has caused concern among citizens, particularly students, professionals and medical trainees who rely on opportunities in the US.

If enforced, the visa curbs could have wide-reaching consequences. According to Minister Kabbyanga, they may discourage legitimate travel, hinder family reunification, and reduce Uganda’s access to opportunities in the world’s largest economy.

Nonetheless, Kabbyanga remained optimistic that diplomatic engagement would help clarify the situation.

“Obviously, the Minister of Foreign Affairs is going to prepare a response. If there are any visa frauds, they will handle it. But I don’t think Ugandans have gone into that in large numbers,” he said.