Rwanda welcomes travelers from every country in the world with a straightforward visa-on-arrival system. Since January 1, 2018, all nationalities can obtain an entry visa directly at Kigali International Airport or any land border crossing – no prior application required. This guide covers everything you need to know: fees, requirements, exempt countries, and how to apply.
Who Can Get a Rwanda Visa on Arrival?
Since January 1, 2018, citizens of every country are eligible for a visa on arrival in Rwanda. This open-door policy makes Rwanda one of the most accessible destinations in Africa. You do not need to apply in advance – simply arrive at an approved port of entry and complete the process on the spot.
You can get your visa on arrival at:
- Kigali International Airport (the main international gateway)
- All land border crossings with neighboring countries (Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo)
The visa on arrival is also available to travelers who prefer to apply online in advance through the IremboGov platform. Online applicants have the option to pay online or upon arrival.
Rwanda Visa on Arrival Fees
The visa fees for Rwanda are set by the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration and are among the most affordable in East Africa.
| Visa Type | Duration | Entries | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist / Holiday Visa (V1) | 30 days | Single entry | 50 |
| Tourist / Holiday Visa (V1) | 90 days | Multiple entry | 70 |
| Family Visit Visa (V2) | 30 days | Single entry | 50 |
| Family Visit Visa (V2) | 90 days | Multiple entry | 70 |
| Conference Visa (V5) | 30 days | Single entry | 50 |
| Transit Visa | 72 hours | Single entry | 30 |
| East African Tourist Visa (V11) | 90 days | Multiple entry | 100 |
Important: Visa fees must not exceed 50 USD for a single-entry visa or 70 USD for a multiple-entry visa. Payments can be made in United States Dollars (USD) or Rwandan Francs (RWF).
The East African Tourist Visa (V11) is a special multiple-entry visa that allows you to visit Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda on a single visa for up to 90 days. If you plan to travel across East Africa, this visa offers excellent value at 100 USD.
Countries That Do Not Need a Visa for Rwanda
Rwanda grants visa-free entry to several groups of nationalities. These travelers do not need to pay any visa fee and can enter Rwanda simply by presenting a valid passport.
East African Community (EAC) Citizens
Citizens of East African Community member states receive the most generous terms:
- Free entry upon arrival
- Stay for up to 6 months
- Kenyans and Ugandans may use a national ID card in lieu of a passport
EAC member states include: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
90-Day Visa-Free Countries
The following countries are granted 90-day visas free of charge upon arrival:
| Country | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Angola | 90 days | Free |
| Benin | 90 days | Free |
| Central African Republic | 90 days | Free |
| Chad | 90 days | Free |
| Cote d’Ivoire | 90 days | Free |
| Democratic Republic of Congo | 90 days | Free |
| Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis | 90 days | Free |
| Ghana | 90 days | Free |
| Guinea | 90 days | Free |
| Haiti | 90 days | Free |
| Indonesia | 90 days | Free |
| Mauritius | 90 days | Free |
| Philippines | 90 days | Free |
| Sao Tome and Principe | 90 days | Free |
| Senegal | 90 days | Free |
| Seychelles | 90 days | Free |
| Sierra Leone | 90 days | Free |
| Singapore | 90 days | Free |
| Qatar | 90 days | Free |
African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie
Citizens of member countries belonging to the African Union, Commonwealth of Nations, and La Francophonie can get free visas upon arrival for a visit of up to 30 days. This covers a large number of countries across Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific.
In November 2023, Rwanda’s President announced the removal of visa fees for all African visitors, reinforcing Rwanda’s commitment to continental integration and open borders.
Requirements for Rwanda Visa on Arrival
To obtain a visa on arrival in Rwanda, you will need:
- Valid passport – must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry with at least one blank page
- Completed visa application form – available at the port of entry or downloadable in advance
- Passport-sized photograph – recent, with a white background, all facial features visible (no hats)
- Supporting documents – depending on visa type:
- Flight itinerary or travel plan
- Hotel reservation or accommodation details
- Invitation letter (for family or business visits)
- Return ticket
- Visa fee payment – in USD or RWF
For travelers who prefer to prepare everything in advance, you can submit your application online through the IremboGov platform. Online applications are processed within 4 working days.
How to Apply for Rwanda Visa on Arrival: Step by Step
At the Airport or Land Border
- Arrive at Kigali International Airport or a land border crossing
- Proceed to the immigration/visa desk
- Fill out the visa application form (provided on-site)
- Submit your passport, photo, and supporting documents
- Pay the visa fee (USD or RWF)
- Receive your visa stamp and enter Rwanda
The process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on queue length.
Online via IremboGov (Before Travel)
- Visit irembo.gov.rw and navigate to Immigration and Emigration
- Select Visa Application under the Request Type
- Enter your applicant details, nationality, and document type
- Fill in your demographic and travel details
- Upload required documents:
- Photo with white background (JPG, max 500KB)
- Copy of passport biodata page (PDF, max 500KB)
- Application letter (PDF, max 500KB)
- Verify your information and submit
- Pay online (Visa or MasterCard) or choose to pay upon arrival
- Receive a notification with your application status
If you are already in Rwanda and wish to extend your stay, apply for the Renew Visa or Permit service rather than a new visa application.
Rwanda Visa Types Explained
Rwanda offers several visa categories to suit different travel purposes:
| Visa Code | Type | Duration | Entry | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V1 | Tourist / Holiday | 30 days | Single | 50 |
| V1 | Tourist / Holiday | 90 days | Multiple | 70 |
| V2 | Family Visit | 30 days | Single | 50 |
| V2 | Family Visit | 90 days | Multiple | 70 |
| V3-1 | Diplomatic | 30 days | Single | Free |
| V5 | Conference | 30 days | Single | 50 |
| V11 | East African Tourist | 90 days | Multiple | 100 |
| V12 | Long-Term Visitor | Up to 10 years | Multiple | 160 |
The V12 Long-Term Visitor Visa is currently available exclusively to United States citizens who hold a valid American passport. It can only be applied for through the Embassy of Rwanda in Washington, D.C., and allows stays of up to 6 months (renewable). The holder is not permitted to work in Rwanda.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival
- Bring exact change if possible – USD bills in good condition are preferred
- Carry printed copies of your hotel reservation and return flight details
- Apply online through Irembo if you want to save time at the airport
- Check passport validity well before your trip – you need at least 6 months remaining
- No affiliated agents are authorized to apply for a visa on your behalf – be wary of third-party services that charge more than the official fees
- Contact DGIE directly at [email protected] or +250 722 17 29 74 if you have questions about which visa type to apply for
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Rwanda visa on arrival cost?
A single-entry tourist visa on arrival costs a maximum of 50 USD. A multiple-entry visa costs 70 USD. Citizens of many countries – including all African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie member states – receive free visas for stays of up to 30 days.
Do I need to apply for a Rwanda visa before I travel?
No. Since January 1, 2018, citizens of all countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or any land border. However, you can also apply online through IremboGov if you prefer to have your visa arranged before departure. Online applications take about 4 days to process.
Which countries get free visas for Rwanda?
East African Community citizens (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC) get free entry for up to 6 months. Citizens of 19 specific countries (including Angola, Ghana, Indonesia, Mauritius, Philippines, Qatar, Senegal, Singapore, and others) receive free 90-day visas. Additionally, citizens of all African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie member states get free 30-day visas.
How long does it take to get a visa on arrival in Rwanda?
The visa-on-arrival process at the airport or land border typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online applications through IremboGov are processed within 4 working days.
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival in Rwanda?
Yes. US citizens can obtain a 30-day single-entry tourist visa on arrival for 50 USD or a 90-day multiple-entry visa for 70 USD. US citizens also have access to the exclusive V12 Long-Term Visitor Visa (up to 10 years, 160 USD), which must be applied for through the Embassy of Rwanda in Washington, D.C.
What is the East African Tourist Visa?
The East African Tourist Visa (V11) is a 90-day multiple-entry visa costing 100 USD that allows travel across Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda on a single visa. It is ideal for travelers planning a multi-country East Africa itinerary.
Is it safe to travel to Rwanda?
Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. The US Department of State currently advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Rwanda due to regional instability, but Kigali and major tourist destinations are generally safe and well-maintained.
What currency do I need for the visa fee?
Visa fees can be paid in United States Dollars (USD) or Rwandan Francs (RWF). Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted for online applications through IremboGov.
