Archival Sense
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- Dec 16, 2025
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The Regional Security Officer at the United States Embassy in Uganda, James Bloomer, has revealed that since July of 2025, 43 Ugandans have been arrested after attempting to apply for U.S. visas using forged documents.
Bloomer warned members of the public against engaging in visa fraud, emphasizing that such actions can lead to serious consequences including denial of visas and possible legal action. He stressed that the embassy has strong mechanisms in place to detect forged paperwork and other forms of fraud. Because of these systems, attempts to manipulate the visa process are likely to be discovered.
Bloomer urged Ugandans who wish to travel to the United States to follow the correct application procedures and provide authentic information and documentation.
“Applicants should always ensure that the documents they present are genuine,” he said, cautioning that relying on forged papers or dishonest intermediaries could jeopardize their chances of ever obtaining a visa.
Bloomer also advised applicants to avoid individuals or agents who promise guaranteed visas. Such practices, he noted, often lead to visa rejection and long-term consequences for applicants.
As of January 21, 2026, the U.S. added Uganda to a visa bond pilot program, requiring applicants for B1/B2 visas to pay a refundable bond from UGX 18 million to over UGX 56 million.
(video courtesy of NBSUg)
Bloomer warned members of the public against engaging in visa fraud, emphasizing that such actions can lead to serious consequences including denial of visas and possible legal action. He stressed that the embassy has strong mechanisms in place to detect forged paperwork and other forms of fraud. Because of these systems, attempts to manipulate the visa process are likely to be discovered.
Bloomer urged Ugandans who wish to travel to the United States to follow the correct application procedures and provide authentic information and documentation.
“Applicants should always ensure that the documents they present are genuine,” he said, cautioning that relying on forged papers or dishonest intermediaries could jeopardize their chances of ever obtaining a visa.
Bloomer also advised applicants to avoid individuals or agents who promise guaranteed visas. Such practices, he noted, often lead to visa rejection and long-term consequences for applicants.
As of January 21, 2026, the U.S. added Uganda to a visa bond pilot program, requiring applicants for B1/B2 visas to pay a refundable bond from UGX 18 million to over UGX 56 million.
(video courtesy of NBSUg)
