Foreign exchange and money transfers across Uganda

Airtel Money and MTN

Mobile money

Send and receive mobile money through supported networks.

Airtel Money and MTN Mobile Money services are available at every Virah branch. Staff can explain current transaction requirements.

Plan your visit

Start with the right Virah branch.

Every advertised service is available at every Virah branch. The team will guide you clearly through current transaction requirements.

Quick answers before you travel

The essentials, at a glance.

ID requiredBring a valid original photo ID
Can I receive?Yes — ask the branch to verify your details
Which branch?Every advertised service is at all 12 branches
AvailabilityEvery day, including public holidays
What to bringYour registered phone/line, the correct number and a valid original ID when required.
+256 766 331 865Find a branch

At a glance

How Virah can help

Straightforward branch assistance for the service you need, with current documents and transaction details explained before you transact.

01

Airtel Money

02

MTN Mobile Money

03

Send and receive

Before you travel

Prepare in three simple steps

Requirements can vary by transaction. These steps help the branch guide you without guessing about documents, charges or processing times.

  1. Choose the network

    Tell staff whether you need MTN Mobile Money or Airtel Money assistance.

  2. Check the transaction details

    Carefully confirm the mobile number and other information for the transaction before proceeding.

  3. Bring your registered line

    Mobile Money is available at every Virah branch. Staff will explain the current transaction requirements.

Safety, compliance, complaints and FAQsOpen the full guidance

Provider-specific checklist

What to carry before you visit.

Requirements can change by service, amount, destination and risk checks. Bring originals and call the branch when anything is unclear.

MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money are available at every Virah branch. Network, float, limits and system status can change.

01

For cash-in or cash-out

Use a registered line and an authorised agent.

  • Your registered phone and SIM.
  • An original, valid government-issued photo ID. Common examples are a Uganda National ID, passport, or valid alien/refugee/residence document; the provider and transaction determine what is accepted.
  • Cash and the exact wallet number.
  • For Airtel agent withdrawal, the official four-digit withdrawal code shown to the agent after you initiate the transaction.

Safe branch use

Four checks before money moves.

  1. 01

    Use a listed branch

    Every advertised Virah service is available throughout the branch network. Use a listed counter and do not hand cash to someone who approaches you outside it.

  2. 02

    Protect secrets

    Never reveal a PIN, OTP, account password or full card security details. Enter secret credentials yourself.

  3. 03

    Check every detail

    Read back the name, number, amount, currency, rate and any fee before authorising. Stop if anything is different.

  4. 04

    Keep the receipt

    Wait for the official receipt, SMS or reference and keep it until the transaction and any complaint are fully resolved.

Questions before the counter

Frequently asked questions.

These answers use official provider or regulator guidance and explain transaction requirements without making up rates, fees or processing times.

01Should I tell the agent my PIN?

No. Enter your PIN yourself. MTN and Airtel warn customers not to disclose a PIN or secret code to agents or alleged customer-care staff.

02When should I release cash or leave?

Only after checking the recipient name, number and amount and receiving the official confirmation message or receipt.

03Which ID should I carry?

Carry your original valid ID, especially for registration, re-verification or when the provider requests identification. A Uganda National ID is the safest choice for Ugandan customers.

04Are fees and limits fixed?

No. Use the provider's current tariff and limits. Cash, agent float and network availability can also change.

BoU

Verified company-level record

Bank of Uganda supervision.

Foreign Exchange BureauFXB 237Money RemitterMR 73

Checked against the Bank of Uganda supervised-institutions data on 13 July 2026. FIA also lists Virah Forex Bureau Ltd as an accountable money/currency changer.

Problems, fraud or complaints

Keep the proof. Escalate in order.

  1. 1. Contact VirahUse your receipt or reference and explain what happened.
  2. 2. Contact the providerFor network-specific problems, keep the SMS/reference and contact the relevant provider as well as Virah. Airtel lists 100, +256 200 202003 and customerservice@ug.airtel.com.
  3. 3. Contact Bank of UgandaToll-free 0800 144 044 or info@bou.or.ug for public feedback and regulatory guidance.
  4. 4. Report suspected crimeContact the provider promptly and report suspected fraud to police.

Rates, fees and timing: Website rates, estimates, fees, limits, payout currency and timing are indicative until confirmed for your transaction. Compliance checks, cash/float, market conditions and provider systems can change the final outcome.

Ready when you are

Confirm the details with Virah.

Choose a convenient branch or contact the team for current transaction guidance.