Rwanda becomes fully Visa-Free for All Countries
Rwanda has once again reaffirmed its commitment to openness and global integration, unveiling a groundbreaking visa policy that allows citizens from every country in the world to enter Rwanda without applying for a visa in advance.
Effective immediately, any traveler—regardless of their country of origin—will receive a 30-day visa on arrival at the airport or border post. The new system eliminates all pre-departure visa requirements, making Rwanda one of the most accessible destinations on the African continent and globally.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, through the official X account of the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE).
"The visa-free entry measure to Rwanda for African citizens was confirmed five (5) years ago, in March 2020! This measure applies not only to Africans, but also to citizens of all member states of the Commonwealth and the Francophonie."
Under this new framework, nationals of Francophonie member states will receive the 30-day visa free of charge, a gesture aimed at strengthening Rwanda’s cooperation with French-speaking nations.
According to DGIE, the reform is designed to boost tourism, attract investors, and facilitate the movement of travelers, positioning Rwanda as a strategic hub for business, travel, and communication in the East African region.
Officials say the initiative is expected to unlock new economic opportunities, enhance Rwanda’s global competitiveness, and increase visitor flows to the country’s world-renowned attractions such as Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park, and the clean, secure, fast-growing capital city of Kigali.
