Yes, it is possible to obtain the East African Tourist Visa (EATV) on arrival in Rwanda. This multiple-entry visa allows travelers to visit Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya on a single visa. It is designed for tourists planning to explore the East African Community (EAC) region without the need for multiple separate visas. The visa is valid for 90 days and costs $100 USD.
Below is a detailed guide explaining everything you need to know about acquiring the East African Tourist Visa upon arrival in Rwanda, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and search engine optimization.
What is the East African Tourist Visa?
The East African Tourist Visa is a joint travel document that allows multiple entries into Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya within a 90-day period. It was introduced to promote regional tourism and facilitate easy travel across the three partner states.
It is important to note that the visa is not valid for Tanzania, Burundi, or South Sudan, which are also EAC members but not part of this visa arrangement.
Can I Get the East African Tourist Visa on Arrival in Rwanda?
Yes. Rwanda allows travelers to obtain the East African Tourist Visa upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or at designated land border crossings, provided that Rwanda is your first point of entry into the East African region.
This means if you plan to begin your journey in Rwanda and then travel to Uganda and/or Kenya, you can acquire the visa upon arrival. However, you cannot obtain this visa at a Rwandan entry point if your trip began in Kenya or Uganda—you must get it from the country of first entry.
What Are the Requirements to Get the EATV on Arrival?
To successfully obtain the East African Tourist Visa on arrival in Rwanda, you must meet the following requirements:
- A valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Proof of onward or return travel (such as flight reservations).
- A clear travel itinerary, indicating that you plan to visit at least one other EATV-participating country (Uganda or Kenya).
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate, especially if you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
- Visa fee of $100 USD, payable in cash. Some ports may accept cards, but carrying cash is advisable.
- Passport-sized photo (optional but useful for backup).
Although applying in advance is possible via Rwanda’s e-visa portal, travelers who meet these criteria can comfortably obtain the visa on arrival.
Where Can You Get the East African Visa on Arrival in Rwanda?
The East African Tourist Visa is available at the following points of entry in Rwanda:
- Kigali International Airport (primary international gateway)
- Land border crossings, such as Gatuna (to Uganda) or Rusumo (to Tanzania), though visa issuance is primarily available at the airport
Most international travelers opt to fly into Kigali, where visa-on-arrival services are well-structured and efficient.
How Much Does the East African Tourist Visa Cost?
The EATV costs $100 USD. This is a non-refundable fee and must be paid even if you are not able to use the visa for the full 90-day period.
The visa covers multiple entries among Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya during the 90 days but becomes invalid once you exit the EAC region. For example, if you leave for Tanzania or return home, the visa will no longer be active for re-entry.
How Long is the Visa Valid?
The East African Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. It allows multiple entries among the participating countries. However, the visa cannot be extended beyond the 90-day limit. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for individual visas for each country after the expiration.
What is the Application Process Like on Arrival?
Here is what to expect when applying for the East African Tourist Visa on arrival in Rwanda:
- Arrival at Immigration Desk: Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, proceed to the immigration counters for visa-on-arrival.
- Submission of Documents: Present your passport, return ticket, travel itinerary, and yellow fever certificate (if required).
- Payment: Pay the $100 USD visa fee.
- Processing Time: Processing typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on airport traffic.
- Visa Issued: Once approved, a visa sticker is placed in your passport, valid for 90 days across Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
Should You Apply Online Instead?
While Rwanda offers an efficient e-visa system, it is not mandatory to apply online before arrival. Applying online might be preferable for those who want to streamline their travel or who enter Rwanda during peak seasons.
That said, on-arrival visa issuance is highly reliable in Rwanda and favored by many travelers for its convenience.
Can You Enter Rwanda with an EATV Issued by Kenya or Uganda?
Yes, you can enter Rwanda with an East African Tourist Visa issued by Kenya or Uganda, as long as it is still valid and you have not exited the EAC region. The visa is valid across all three countries, regardless of which one issued it. However, you must first enter the country that issued your visa before proceeding to the others.
For example, if you applied for the EATV through Uganda’s immigration portal, you must first enter Uganda to activate the visa before traveling to Rwanda or Kenya.
What Happens if You Leave the EAC Region?
Once you leave the East African Community (e.g., travel to Tanzania, Burundi, or fly out internationally), the East African Tourist Visa is terminated, even if the 90-day period has not expired. Re-entry would then require a new visa.
Is the East African Visa Right for You?
If you plan to visit at least two of the three countries (Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya) within a 90-day period, the East African Tourist Visa is the most cost-effective and convenient option. It avoids the hassle of applying for individual visas and simplifies cross-border travel.
Travelers planning multi-country safaris, gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda, or those exploring cultural or wildlife attractions across the region, will benefit from this unified visa.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining the East African Tourist Visa on arrival in Rwanda is not only possible—it’s also straightforward and efficient. With the right documents and a clear travel plan, travelers can land at Kigali International Airport and receive a 90-day multiple-entry visa that opens up three incredible East African countries.
Whether you’re embarking on a gorilla trekking safari in Volcanoes National Park, exploring Kenya’s Masai Mara, or tracking chimpanzees in Uganda’s Kibale Forest, the East African Tourist Visa provides unmatched convenience.
Always ensure that your entry aligns with the issuing country’s policies, and prepare all documentation to facilitate smooth processing. For the most up-to-date guidelines, check with the official immigration departments of Rwanda, Uganda, or Kenya before traveling.
