Step-by-Step Process to Get a Rwanda Visa for Indians: Documents, Fees & Tips

If you are an Indian national intending to visit Rwanda for tourism-related purposes, business or even as a transit area, the visa application process is rather straightforward and flexible due to Rwanda’s visa friendly approach for travelers. After all, you will have a number of visa options, including an e-Visa system which also makes it easy for you as an Indian national to expedite the visa process. This guide will cover the step by step processes, procedures, documents required, visa costs, where you can apply and helpful travel tips to apply for a Rwanda visa for Indians. 

Do Indians need a visa for Rwanda?

Yes, Indian nationals will need a visa to visit Rwanda, however, Rwanda is working hard to make the visa process easy for Indians by allowing candidates to get a visa on arrival or apply for an electronic visa through an online process. Both processes are simple, however, it is always better to apply for an electronic visa, to plan accordingly and reduce time spent in airport queues.

Types of Rwandan Visa for Indians

The most popular visas categories for travelers to Rwanda is: 

• Tourist Visa- Could be single or multiple entry.
• Transit Visa – For travelers on transit via Rwanda (one time stay maximum is 72 hours).
• Business Visa – For short term business equivalent to the trip for meetings or conference.
• East Africa Tourist visa-  Visa that allows travel in Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda. Good for 90 days.

Guide to a apply for  Rwanda visa for Indians (step by step)

Step 1: Select an Application Method

Indian passport holders can apply for a Rwanda visa for Indians in three manners:

• E-Visa (Recommended): submit online application before you travel
• Visa on Arrival: pick it up at your entry point and go along your way.
• Embassy Application: in person at the closest Rwandan mission (if applicable)

Note: e-Visa is the better method and is highly recommended as it will have you smoothly travel through the airport as going with a visa on arrival will require substantial time at the airport. 

Step 2: Go to the E-Visa Portal

Visit the Rwanda immigration website to begin the application.

Step 3: Complete your online application

You will need:

• First Name, Last Name, Date of Birth, and Passport Number
• Purpose of your visit (tourism, business, transit, etc.);
• Confirm your Dates of entry and departure
• Your Locations in Rwanda (hotel, or person you are staying with) and your contact details.
• Double check all details against your passport, if it does not match you may have added additional delays.

Stage 4: Provide Required Document

Here is a list of standard Documents for a Rwanda visa for Indians.

• Scanned copy of a passport (valid for six months with one empty page)
• Recent passport style photo (recommend 1)
• Travel itinerary or flight Booking
• Hotel reservation confirmation or invitation letter (invoice visiting a person)
• Proof of Funds (Bank Statement or Credit Card)

If you are getting a business visa you may want to think about:

• An invitation letter from a company in Rwanda
• Company registration of the trade licence (if applicable)

Stage 5: Payment

After you have uploaded your documents you will be able to pay. The fee is based on the type of visa and the length. 

• Single Entry Tourist Visa: USD 50
• Multiple Entry Visa: USD 70
• East Africa Tourist visa: USD 100
• Transit visa: USD 30

Payment is made online, credit/debit card.

Step 6: Awaiting Processing Time

Average processing time is typically 3 business days but may vary sometimes. When you have been approved, you will receive an e-mail of your e-Visa attached as a PDF file. 

Tip: Print a copy or copies of your e-Visa and keep it in your luggage when you travel. 

Step 7: When You Get to Rwanda

At the immigration counter, you will need to have: 

• A copy of your e-Visa.
• Your passport (valid).
• Proof of accommodation.
• Your return or onward ticket.

When everything is verified, you will be allowed to enter Rwanda.

Visa on Arrival in Rwanda for Indian Passport Holders

If you have not applied online at all, there might be a visa on arrival option. Indian nationals can receive a visa on arrival at any and all of your international ports of entry (Kigali International Airport, etc.) in Rwanda, and at your land or sea points of entry if applicable, and you have access or options for direct entry into Rwanda. If you are required to apply to enter, or are to obtain any category of a visa on arrival, you must present all of the specifics just listed.

A better option than a visa on arrival may be an e-visa from the Rwanda online application. An e-visa is a quicker option, and usually a safer option, particularly if visiting overland tourist venues in busy travel periods.

Some pointers to make your application as hassle free as possible:

• Apply As Early As Possible: Always make an effort to start your visa application process as far prior to travel as possible, you ideally want to start your application process at least 10-15 times ahead.
• Use Official Websites: If possible you want to stay clear of the third party portals as I have experience that shows this is by far the best option for your application.
• Print and Check: Always verify before traveling on any of the health requirements and check what is required prior to travel especially during these unpredictable times.
• Have Documents and Evidence Ready: The immigration officer may ask if there is anything to show for proof of funds, hotel receipts etc.

Good Reasons to Visit Rwanda?

You will not be disappointed in the people, culture, the beautiful mountains, or experiencing the wildlife of a lifetime (think obviously mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park). No matter if you are traveling to Rwanda for tourism or for business you can guarantee a typical safe, very high quality visit that you are used to in Rwanda. 

Conclusion 

The visa process for Rwanda is simple, efficient & tourist-friendly for Indian visitors. It matters not if you were granted or applied for an entry visa for your visit, or whether you are applying for your visa online. As long as you have the requirements, documents and information, and prepare adequately, it is sure to be an incredible experience. 

Rwanda is truly a rising tourism destination, with their known wildlife, welcoming people and stunning landscapes they are certainly a great place to visit. And of course, if at any stage you become confused or concerned with the visa application process, or simply want to verify your documents are in order, look at options such as OneVasco with their friendly and supportive services. Would you recommend Rwanda to your travelling friends or family? What would you say?