How to Apply for a Film and Video Distributors License in Uganda

Uganda – Apply for a Film and Video Distributors License Procedure

In-Person Application

1. Fill Application Form:
   • Obtain and fill an application registration form from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) offices. The form requires details such as the company or proprietor’s name, address, estimated population to be served, and health and safety standards undertaken.
2. Submit Description and Text:
   • Provide a full description of the scenes, and the full text of the spoken parts (if any) of the entire film to be distributed. If any part of the film is in a language other than English, provide a certified English translation.
3. Purchase Forms:
   • Purchase a set of forms from the Registration Unit of the Commission. Fill all necessary parts and attach required documents, including contact details and any necessary letters of approval from local authorities.
4. Approval Letter:
   • For video shows, video libraries, or cinema theatres, obtain a letter of approval from local authorities in the area where the show will take place.
5. Attach Required Documents:
   • Attach a valid distribution agreement and other necessary documents, including a brief plan for distributing the films and videos, memorandum of association, and evidence of financial commitment to the agreement with the copyright owner.
6. Review and Classification:
   • Submit the film for review and classification by the Commission. Films are classified into categories such as General Exhibition (GE), Parental Guidance (PG), 16, and 18/A based on criteria like violence, sex, horror, nudity, and substance use.
7. Submit to Licensing Officer:
   • Submit the completed application form and attachments to the licensing officer for review.
8. Pay Application Fee:
   • Pay the required application fee. The licensing officer will provide details on the fees. Typically, the form costs UGX 100,000, with licensing fees varying based on the level: UGX 1,000,000 (National), UGX 500,000 (Regional), UGX 300,000 (District), UGX 100,000 (Community Video Library).
9. Receive License:
   • If all requirements are met, a provisional license valid for one year will be issued. After proven compliance, a renewable five-year license will be issued.

Online Application

1. Access UCC Website:
   • Visit the Uganda Communications Commission website and navigate to the e-services section.
2. Fill Online Form:
   • Complete the online application form for a film and video distributors license.
3. Upload Required Documents:
   • Upload necessary documents such as the movie synopsis, marketing and distribution strategy, and other required attachments.
4. Pay Application Fee:
   • Make the payment online as directed by the portal.
5. Receive Confirmation:
   • Receive an acknowledgment receipt and proceed as instructed by the portal.

Required Documents

• Identification Card copy
• Copy of movie synopsis
• Marketing and distribution strategy
• Valid distribution agreement
• Certified true copy of memorandum & Articles of Association
• Tax Clearance Certificate from Uganda Communication Commission
• Police report (if required)
• Letter of approval from local authorities (if required)

Office Locations & Contacts

Uganda Communications Commission – Head Office:

• Physical address: Plot 42 – 44, Spring Road, Bugolobi, Kampala, Uganda
• P.O. Box: 7376 Kampala, Uganda
• Tel: +256 414 339000 / +256 312 339000
• Fax: +256 414 348832
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: UCC Website

Eligibility

• Companies and individuals registered with the Uganda Film Council (UFC) and dealing in the Uganda film and video distribution industry.

Fees

• Application Form Fee: UGX 100,000
• License Fees:
  • National Level: UGX 1,000,000
  • Regional Level: UGX 500,000
  • District Level: UGX 300,000
  • Community Video Library: UGX 100,000

Validity

• Provisional license: 1 year (for first-time applicants)
• Renewable license: 5 years, renewable annually after initial provisional period.

Processing Time

• The processing time is approximately 14 days from the submission of the application form.

Required Information

• Applicant’s name
• Organization name (if applicable)
• Completed application form (UFC form)
• Certificate of Incorporation (if applicable)
• Memorandum & Articles of Association (certified copy)
• Tax Clearance Certificate
• Title, sub-title, text, and description of the film
• Marketing strategy and distribution/exhibition outlets
• Film regulatory licenses for video/film exhibitors and distributors

Notes

• All films entering Uganda must be classified and rated by the UFC.
• The synopsis or other parts of the film must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
• The licensing officer may require applicants to enter into a bond before granting a filming license.
• Channels of distribution and marketing strategies must be provided.

This comprehensive guide outlines the steps, requirements, and procedures for obtaining a film and video distributors license in Uganda, ensuring compliance with the Uganda Communications Commission and Uganda Film Council regulations.