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Money and duty free for Uganda

Currency and Money

Currency information

Ugandan Shilling (UGX; symbol Sh). Notes are in denominations of Sh50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of Sh1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50.

Credit cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger hotels, upmarket restaurants and some shops in Kampala and Entebbe, with Visa and Mastercard the most widely recognised. However, Uganda remains a predominantly cash-based economy, and card acceptance is limited outside major urban centres. Safari lodges and tour operators often accept card payments, but it is wise to confirm in advance.

ATM

ATMs are available in Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja and other major towns, with Stanbic Bank, Centenary Bank and Absa Bank among the most commonly used by visitors. Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted, though some ATMs only take Visa. ATMs are scarce or absent in rural areas and near national parks, so visitors should withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote destinations.

Banking hours

Mon to Fri, 08:30 to 15:00 or 16:00. Some branches open on Saturday mornings.

Currency restrictions

There are no strict limits on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into or taken out of Uganda, but amounts exceeding approximately UGX 30 million (around US$8,000–8,500 or equivalent) must be declared to customs on arrival or departure.

Uganda duty free

Overview

Travellers over 18 years entering Uganda may bring in the following goods free of customs duties, provided these items are for personal use and not intended for resale:

• Tobacco: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
• Alcohol: 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine.
• Perfume: A reasonable quantity for personal use.

Allowance for other goods may apply, but travellers are advised to confirm current limits with official customs authorities before travel.

Duty-free allowances are subject to change, sometimes at short notice due to policy updates or external factors. Information is correct at the time of writing; travellers should verify current allowances with official customs authorities before departure. We accept no liability for any inconvenience or loss arising from changes to these regulations.

Banned Imports

Banned imports include narcotics and psychotropic substances, counterfeit goods, pornographic material, weapons and ammunition without authorisation, and goods that may pose a risk to public health, safety or the environment. Certain agricultural products and plant materials may be restricted or require phytosanitary certificates.

This list is not exhaustive. Travellers should consult the Uganda Revenue Authority or the relevant embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Banned Exports

Banned exports include wildlife trophies and products derived from protected species without the appropriate permits, narcotics, and certain cultural artefacts. Visitors purchasing items made from animal products should ensure these are accompanied by valid documentation.