The Senior Security Officer at the United States Embassy in Uganda has warned Ugandans against using brokers and intermediaries when applying for U.S. visas.
James V Bloomer reveals that 43 individuals have been arrested for presenting fraudulent documents during visa applications since July 2025. Among the fradulent items include fake birth certificates and academic records.
The warning was issued during a joint press briefing with the Uganda Police Force to address the growing problem of visa fraud and impersonation scams targeting Ugandan travelers.
Bloomer noted that the visa application process is strictly conducted between the applicant and the embassy and does not require third-party intermediaries.
“We encourage the people of Uganda that want to visit to obtain a visa. The United States is open for business. We want to work with people travelling for tourism and business,” Bloomer said.
However, he cautioned that applicants must strictly adhere to the established procedures.
“When you are applying for a visa, you need to understand the process and the regulations that must be followed. This process only includes you and the embassy. You do not need to hire somebody to help you acquire a visa,” he explained.
According to the embassy, some applicants have attempted to use fraudulent birth certificates, fake academic documents, counterfeit currency and false claims of U.S. citizenship, actions that automatically disqualify them from receiving visas.
He revealed that the 43 suspects arrested were intercepted at the embassy and subsequently handed over to Ugandan authorities for prosecution.
The embassy also clarified the recently introduced visa bond requirement, implemented by the United States Department of State for certain applicants.
Under the policy, some travelers whose visas are approved may be required to pay a refundable visa bond ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 US dollars. The bond is intended to ensure that travelers comply with visa conditions and return to their home countries within the permitted period.
Bloomer stressed that the bond is only communicated after a visa has been approved and should never be paid in advance or through intermediaries.
“The person conducting the interview will inform you whether you have received the visa and how much you must pay for the visa bond. Please do not pay for the visa bond before you receive the visa,” the official warned.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke also cautioned Ugandans about the increasing number of fraudsters impersonating government officials to exploit vulnerable citizens.
“These criminals present themselves as officers from government agencies, ministries, banks, telecoms and other institutions. They target individuals who are unfamiliar with official procedures or those seeking shortcuts,” Rusoke said.
He urged members of the public to verify information through official channels, visit police stations for guidance and report suspicious individuals to authorities.
Authorities also reminded visa holders to strictly comply with visa conditions.
“When you receive a visa, it is an agreement between you and the United States government that you will follow the rules of that visa, including leaving the country before the authorized period expires,” the official concluded.