An expat guide to Kigali
Kigali has become one of East Africa's most popular relocation destinations for remote workers, NGO staff, and entrepreneurs. Here's a practical starting point for settling in.
Last updated July 21, 2026
Neighbourhoods to know
- Kiyovu and Nyarutarama: established, leafy areas popular with long-term expats and diplomats, generally the most expensive
- Kimihurura and Gishushu: close to restaurants, cafés, and coworking spaces, popular with younger professionals
- Kacyiru and Remera: good value, close to embassies and the airport respectively, with a strong mix of local and international residents
Housing
Most newcomers start in serviced apartments or short lets while they get a feel for the city, then move to an unfurnished or furnished house or apartment on a one-year lease. Rent is typically quoted and paid in Rwandan francs, though some landlords in expat-heavy buildings still reference US dollar equivalents. Agents can help significantly with navigating listings that aren’t advertised publicly.
Healthcare
Kigali has several private hospitals and clinics used by the expat community, offering a standard of care well above what’s available in most of the region, alongside emergency evacuation insurance that most long-term residents carry for anything serious. Public healthcare exists but most expats rely on private facilities and international health insurance.
Schools
Families relocating with children generally choose from a small number of international schools offering British, American, or French curricula, located mainly in the Nyarutarama and Kacyiru areas. Spaces can be limited, so it’s worth starting enquiries well before your move.
Work permits and residency
Foreign nationals taking up employment or starting a business generally need a work permit and residence permit, arranged either through an employer or, for entrepreneurs, through Rwanda’s business registration process, which is known for being relatively fast by regional standards. Requirements and processing details are handled through Rwanda’s immigration directorate, so confirm the current process for your specific situation before you move.
Daily life
Kigali is widely regarded as one of the safest and cleanest capitals on the continent, with reliable mobile money, a growing café and coworking scene, and English spoken widely in business and expat-facing settings, even though Kinyarwanda and French remain in everyday use.