The Firm provides comprehensive legal support to embassies, high commissions, consulates, international organisations, and their personnel, helping them navigate this complex terrain with confidence.

Immunities

We advise diplomatic missions and their staff on the scope and limits of privileges and immunities under the law. Our work includes clarifying the distinction between the immunity enjoyed by diplomatic agents and the more limited protections available to administrative, technical, and service staff. We assist with matters involving the inviolability of mission premises, the immunity of diplomatic bags, and the exceptions to civil and administrative jurisdiction, including disputes relating to private immovable property and commercial activity outside official functions.

Tax Exemptions

We help missions and their personnel access the tax exemptions and customs refunds to which they are entitled. This includes advising on excise duty refunds on fuel for diplomatic staff and their spouses, as well as exemptions for goods imported for the official use of the mission. We also counsel on the critical distinction between exempt diplomatic personnel and locally engaged staff, who remain subject to Ugandan income tax obligations. Our team assists missions in structuring their affairs to ensure compliance while maximising available exemptions, and we represent clients in engagements with the Uganda Revenue Authority where questions arise.

Property Acquisitions

The acquisition and management of chanceries, residences, and staff housing present unique challenges for diplomatic missions. We advise on the full lifecycle of property transactions, from due diligence and negotiation through to title transfer and registration. We are familiar with the requirements for obtaining the receiving State’s consent for the establishment of mission premises and the procedures for designating properties as diplomatic premises. Our team works to protect your mission’s investment and ensure that all transactions comply with both Ugandan property law and diplomatic requirements.

Employment

We provide employment law advice tailored to the unique circumstances of diplomatic missions. This includes drafting employment contracts for locally engaged staff, advising on termination procedures, and ensuring compliance with related legislation, including provisions on working hours, leave entitlements, and social security contributions. We also counsel on the specific tax obligations of local staff, who, unlike their diplomatic colleagues, are not exempt from Ugandan income tax. Where disputes arise, we represent missions before relevant authorities, working to resolve matters efficiently and protect your mission’s reputation.

Diplomatic Transactions

Beyond routine operations, we support missions in significant transactions that require careful legal structuring. This includes advising on bilateral agreements, memoranda of understanding, and the negotiation of host country agreements for international organisations. We assist with the establishment of new missions and the expansion of existing ones, including obtaining necessary approvals for premises and ensuring compliance with local regulations. We also provide counsel on diplomatic bag procedures and the transport of official materials, helping missions navigate the sensitivities that arise when these privileges are questioned.

Negotiations

We represent missions in negotiations with Ugandan government authorities on a range of matters, including diplomatic notes, status agreements, and the resolution of disputes. Our lawyers are experienced in the diplomatic protocol that governs these interactions. We help missions frame their positions, prepare supporting documentation, and achieve outcomes that respect both international law and the practical realities of the host State relationship.

Why Missions Choose Us: Our team combines expertise in international law, Ugandan domestic law, and the practical realities of diplomatic operations. We are discreet, responsive, and committed to protecting your mission’s interests while preserving the constructive relationship you maintain with the receiving State.