Rwanda visa requirements
Rwanda has one of the most streamlined entry systems in Africa. Here is what to prepare before you travel, and how the e-visa process actually works.
Last updated July 21, 2026
Who needs a visa
Rwanda operates an open-border policy for African Union citizens, who can enter visa-free. Citizens of many other countries can apply for an e-visa online, and a number of nationalities can also purchase a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport or a land border. Because policy varies by nationality and does change, always check your specific requirement on the official Irembo portal before booking flights.
What you’ll need to apply
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, with a blank page
- A passport-style digital photo
- Proof of onward travel (a return or connecting flight)
- Accommodation details for your stay
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country with risk of transmission
How the e-visa process works
The single-entry tourist e-visa is applied for entirely online. You fill in your passport and travel details, upload the required documents, and pay the fee by card. Processing is usually completed within a few business days, so applying at least one to two weeks before departure gives you a comfortable buffer. Once approved, you’ll receive an approval notice by email — print it or save it offline, since border staff may ask to see it alongside your passport.
The East Africa Tourist Visa
If your trip also includes Kenya or Uganda, the East Africa Tourist Visa allows travel between all three countries on a single visa within a 90-day window, which can work out cheaper and more convenient than separate visas — provided Rwanda is one of your entry points.