Last updated: October 2026
Moving to Kampala involves immigration paperwork, a housing search in a city with heavy traffic, and dozens of small set-up tasks. Most relocation guides list the tasks but not the order, which leads to delays and extra cost. This checklist takes you from three months before the move to the end of your first month, using official immigration fees and current local services. The most important early steps are securing the right work permit through your employer and booking temporary housing for your first weeks.
Key takeaways
- Work permits are applied for online through Uganda’s immigration portal at visas.immigration.go.ug, usually by the employer.
- The Class G2 permit for expatriate employees costs $1,250 for 6 months and $2,500 for 12 months, according to Uganda’s immigration directorate.
- Dependant passes cost $350 for a spouse and $200 for each child.
- Book temporary housing for the first 4 to 8 weeks, then search for a long-term home in person.
- Choose your neighbourhood based on the school run and commute, not just the house.
Relocation timeline at a glance
| When | Main tasks |
|---|---|
| 3 months before | Confirm job, start work permit, research schools |
| 2 months before | Apply for school places, plan shipping, check health requirements |
| 1 month before | Book temporary housing and airport transfer, arrange insurance |
| Week 1 | SIM card, bank account, mobile money, transport |
| Weeks 2 to 6 | House viewings, school visits, sign lease |
| Month 2 | Move into long-term home, set up utilities |
Three months before: immigration and schools
Work permit
Most foreign employees need a Class G2 entry permit, which covers expatriate employment, including salaried NGO staff. Applications are made online through the immigration portal, usually by the employer.
According to Uganda’s immigration directorate, the G2 permit costs $1,250 for 6 months, $2,500 for 12 months, $5,000 for 24 months and $7,500 for 36 months. The longer permits include a $1,500 non-refundable fee.
Typical requirements include a passport, police clearance, an appointment letter, certified qualifications and the employer’s tax clearance. Fees and rules change, so confirm the current list on the official portal.
Short assignments
The Special Pass used for short work assignments was informally phased out in 2026. Short assignments now usually require a six-month G2 permit, which takes longer to process.
Dependant passes
A spouse and children under 18 apply for dependant passes linked to the principal’s permit. Official fees are $350 for a spouse and $200 for each child.
Schools
Popular international schools often have waiting lists. Contact schools early and compare locations, because the school run shapes where you live. Read the guide to international schools in Kampala.
Two months before: health, shipping and money
- Book travel clinic appointments for vaccinations and malaria advice.
- Arrange international health insurance with medical evacuation cover.
- Decide what to ship and what to buy locally. Imported furniture and electronics cost more in Kampala.
- Notify your bank and check international card fees.
- Gather certified copies of degrees, marriage and birth certificates.
One month before: housing and arrival
Book temporary housing
Few people sign a long lease from abroad. Book a serviced apartment for the first four to eight weeks, then view houses in person.
Temporary housing should be furnished, secure and include utilities, so you can start work on day one.
Arrange your airport transfer
Book a driver to meet you at Entebbe. The guide to Entebbe Airport to Kampala transport compares the options.
Your first week in Kampala
- SIM card: MTN and Airtel sell SIM cards at the airport and in town. Bring your passport for registration.
- Mobile money: set up MTN MoMo or Airtel Money for everyday payments.
- Bank account: employers often help with an introduction letter.
- Transport: set up ride hailing apps or arrange a regular driver.
- Emergency contacts: save your embassy, employer, accommodation and a private hospital in your phone.
Weeks two to six: finding a long-term home
Choose the neighbourhood first
Shortlist two or three areas based on your office and school. The guide to where to stay in Kampala compares Kololo, Naguru, Bugolobi, Muyenga and Munyonyo.
What to check at every viewing
- Security: guards, walls, gate and lighting.
- Backup power: generator or solar, and who pays for fuel.
- Water: storage tanks and pressure.
- Internet: fibre availability in the building or street.
- Commute: drive the route at peak time before signing.
Lease terms
Many landlords ask for several months’ rent in advance. Negotiate the payment schedule and get all repairs and inclusions in writing.
Month two: settling in
- Set up electricity on a prepaid meter. Distribution moved from Umeme to UEDCL in March 2025.
- Open a water account with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation if not included.
- Install home internet. Fibre providers offer 50 to 150 Mbps plans in parts of Kampala.
- Find a local doctor, dentist and pharmacy.
- Join expat and parent groups for practical recommendations.
For realistic budgets, read the guide to the cost of living in Kampala.
Temporary housing at Bon Bini Residence
Bon Bini Residence in Muyenga offers temporary housing for relocating professionals and families. Apartments range from studios to three bedrooms, with water, electricity, WiFi and daily housekeeping included.
Stays of 30 nights or more start at $30 a night, with no deposit or lease. See expat housing in Kampala and the long stay apartment rates.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a work permit in Uganda?
Your employer usually applies online through the immigration portal at visas.immigration.go.ug. Most employees need a Class G2 permit, which costs $1,250 for 6 months or $2,500 for 12 months according to Uganda’s immigration directorate.
Can my family join me in Uganda?
Yes. A spouse and children under 18 can apply for dependant passes linked to your permit. Official fees are $350 for a spouse and $200 for each child.
Where should I stay when I first move to Kampala?
Most expats book a furnished serviced apartment for four to eight weeks, then search for a long-term home in person.
What is the best area to live in Kampala for expats?
Expats commonly live in Kololo, Naguru, Bugolobi, Muyenga and Munyonyo. Choose based on your office and school run, because traffic is heavy at peak times.
Do I need to ship furniture to Kampala?
Not always. Furnished rentals and serviced apartments are available, and imported furniture is expensive locally. Many families ship personal items and buy larger furniture after they arrive.
Written by the Bon Bini Residence team in Muyenga, Kampala. We host business travellers, families and expats in our serviced apartments all year and update this guide as things change.
Relocating to Kampala? See all apartments and check availability, or message us on WhatsApp at +256 706 444 444.
