Ministry Engages in Discussions with Turkish Authorities Regarding Detained Ugandans
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively pursuing a resolution for the situation involving Ugandan citizens who have been detained in Turkey due to overstaying.
Reported last month, the Ugandan Embassy in Ankara conveyed that a significant number of Ugandan nationals were apprehended across multiple locations in Turkey. Initially estimated at 59 individuals, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Waiswa Bagiire, has now verified that 87 Ugandan nationals are indeed detained across six distinct detention centers for violating Turkey’s immigration laws.
Bagiire confirmed that constructive discussions are underway with Turkish authorities to collectively identify and execute fair solutions to address the present concerns. The Embassy is also providing necessary consular services and legal aid to Ugandans in detention.
“The ministry is committed to engaging with the relevant Turkish authorities to find a solution that is acceptable to all parties involved,” assured Bagiire.
Remaining beyond the stipulated duration in Turkey falls under the Turkish Passport Law 5682, carrying substantial legal implications. These consequences encompass immediate deportation, imposition of fines, and a five-year entry ban into the country.
As per the Turkish Directorate General of Migration Management, foreigners can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, granted through an e-Visa, regular Visa, or Visa-Exemption.
Staying in Turkey beyond the allowable period can occur through three avenues: surpassing the 90/180-day limit, overstaying the original visa, or failing to renew an expired Residence permit.
Notably, this situation mirrors previous instances where Ugandans faced detention in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to expired visas. The matter escalated into a political concern as affected individuals released videos seeking government intervention. Resultantly, over 1,500 Ugandans with expired visas were repatriated to Uganda without incurring fines for overstaying.
