Rwanda Visa Requirements for Zimbabweans 2025

Rwanda, a lovely place in Africa, is known for its beauty and lively ways. It has great views, fun things to do, tasty food, deep roots, and kind people. Rwanda is a top spot to visit in East Africa.

If you live in Zimbabwe and want to see Rwanda, you’ll need to get a visa. The good news is Zimbabweans can fill out the form online in under 10 minutes! Keep reading to learn what you’ll need to get a Rwanda visa.

1. Rwanda visa for Zimbabweans 2025

Zimbabwean citizens who want to visit Rwanda can apply for the Rwanda e-visa, also known as the Rwanda electronic visa, which was introduced in 2018. An electronic visa for Rwanda allows visitors from more than 100 countries, including Zimbabwe, to visit the country for short stays.

The Rwanda electronic visa is simple because applicants do not need to gather any supporting documents, visit an embassy, or have an in-person interview. Travelers can, in fact, apply for their electronic visa entirely online, and the process takes less than 30 minutes.

Do Zimbabweans need a visa for Rwanda?

Yes, all Zimbabwean nationals must have a valid visa before they can legally enter Rwanda for short stays. It is not possible for Zimbabweans to enter Rwanda without holding a valid visa.

Zimbabwean travelers are no longer required to visit the Rwanda embassy in Zimbabwe to obtain a visa. Instead, the application for a Rwanda e-Visa for Zimbabwean passport holders is now entirely online.

A Rwanda visa for Zimbabweans is a single-entry online visa waiver and valid for 3 months from the arrival date.

What are the different types of Rwanda visas for Zimbabwean citizens?

Rwanda's visa policy specifies which nationalities are eligible for online visas and the requirements they must meet. There are various types of e-Visas to Rwanda available depending on the purposes of the Zimbabwean travelers

• Rwanda e-Tourist Visa: The visa allows travelers to enter the country once with a duration of stay up to 30 days from the entry date.
• Rwanda conference visa: Zimbabwean citizens can use this type of visa to enter Rwanda to attend a conference, meeting, or seminar as a speaker or attendee. It allows a single entry to Rwanda with a total staying time within 30 days from the arrival date.
• Rwanda transit visa: This visa allows Zimbabwean passport holders to transit through Rwanda and stay in the country for up to 3 days between their flights.
• East Africa Visa: The Rwandan government launched the East African Visa, an electronic visa for individuals wishing to travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda at the same time, with Rwanda being the first destination on this country's list. The validity of this e-visa is 03 months from the arrival date with multiple entries between the 03 countries, and the duration of stay is up to 90 days from the day you enter Rwanda.

2. Rwanda visa requirements for Zimbabweans

Before proceeding to Rwanda's visa application process, Zimbabweans should read through the Rwanda visa requirements for Zimbabweans.

What Rwanda visa documents are required for Zimbabwean citizens?

• Valid passports: Zimbabwean travelers must have a valid Zimbabwean passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry into Rwanda with 02 blank pages for verification. Applicants are advised to have their passport on hand when filling out the online form, as passport information will be required to complete the application.
• A valid email address: This email address is used to receive all electronic visa notifications for the traveler. Applicants are advised to check their email inbox frequently in order to be aware of when they can obtain their e-visa.
• Digital copies of their passport's biographical pages.
• Digital Photo: All applicants must provide a recent passport-size digital photo (either in JPEG or PNG format) with a clear face against a white background.

It is recommended that Zimbabweans keep a physical copy of each document, including the e-Visa approval letter, to present to the immigration officer when they arrive at the border.

To enter Rwanda, the applicant must use the same passport that was used to apply for the e-visa. This is because the Rwanda e-Visa for Zimbabweans is electronically linked to the applicants’ passports. Applicants who hold dual citizenship should also keep this in mind.

Applicants from Zimbabwe are ready to apply for the Rwanda e-Visa once they have gathered all the necessary documents and met the Rwanda visa requirements for Zimbabweans.

3. Rwanda visa application from Zimbabwe

Obtaining a Rwanda e-visa from Zimbabwe is a simple process that takes about 30 minutes. All you have to do is fill out the Rwanda e-visa application form online.

How to apply for a Rwanda visa for Zimbabwean citizens?

• Step 1: Add information about visa details and personal information. Notice that any inaccuracies or typo mistakes could result in their visa application being rejected.
• Step 2: Double-check all the information provided in the previous step to make sure it is correct before making payments.
• Step 3: Get the confirmation of your e-visa order and wait for the result. Rwanda e-visa applications from Zimbabwe are typically processed online and returned within one (1) to three (3) business days, depending on the visa service that the applicants choose

Accuracy in Application

The need to be right: Being exact matters a lot when filling out your Rwanda visa form. Even tiny errors, like wrong passport numbers, misspelled names, or mismatched facts, can slow things down or get your visa denied.

Advice: Check all details with care. Compare them with your official papers, like your passport, Zimbabwe stay visa, and travel plans. Make sure dates, names, and numbers match and are correct on all papers before you send in your form.

Monitoring Visa Status

Online Tracking: After submitting your application, it’s important to monitor the status of your Rwanda visa through the "Check Rwanda visa status" online system.

Tip: Use the reference number you got when you applied to check your status online. Check often to stay updated on any problems or delays. If there is no update for a long time, reach out to the Rwanda Visa Center for help.

What to Do in Case of Visa Rejection

Rejection Help: Though not common, visas can be denied if papers are missing, wrong, or do not meet the rules.

Tip: If your visa is denied, read the reason given by the consulate closely. You might fix the problem and apply again. You can also ask us or the Rwanda consular office for advice. In some cases, you may need to add papers or make changes before applying again.

Arrival in Rwanda

• Show Your E-Visa: Your Rwanda e-visa is linked to your Zimbabwe passport online. Still, bring a printed copy to show to border staff when you arrive. Even though it's linked to your passport, having a paper copy can save time.
• Prepare Additional Documents: Make sure you have your passport (valid for six more months after your trip), proof of where you will stay, and a ticket to leave Rwanda. Border staff might ask for these to check why you're visiting.
• Border and Customs: After the border check, you may go through customs. Learn about Rwanda’s customs rules, like limits on some items and duty-free goods.
• Keep Contact Details: Have the phone number of your hotel and the Rwanda consulate with you. This can help if you face problems while in Rwanda.

Rwanda Visa Validity for Zimbabweans

The validity of your e-visa will begin from the date of your first arrival in Rwanda, which you provided in your application.

Stay Validity of Rwanda Visa for Zimbabweans

The duration of stay permitted for Zimbabwean visa holders depends on the type of visa granted. The maximum stay allowed is up to 90 days from the date of entry into Rwanda.

4. Rwanda visa fees for Zimbabwe citizens and processing time

How much is the Rwanda visa for Zimbabwean?

To complete your payment, you will need to pay two types of Rwanda e-visa fees when applying as a Zimbabwe citizen: the government fee and the service fee. Additionally, consider adding Rwanda travel insurance for a secure journey.

Since Zimbabwe is not on the exemption list, the government fee is mandatory. The service fee depends on your chosen processing time. You can select from three options, each with different processing speeds:

What is the Rwanda visa processing time for Zimbabwe citizens?

• Normal: This service type offers you a standardized processing time; you will get your e-visa within 3 business days.
• Urgent: You will have a higher state of service when choosing this type. As a result, you will receive your e-visa in a guaranteed 48 hours.
• Super urgent: this e-visa is the highest priority type that can help you get your e-visa within 24 hours.

Additionally, consider purchasing Rwanda travel insurance for a secure trip to Rwanda.

How Will I Receive My Rwanda e-Visa?

Your Rwanda e-visa for Zimbabweans will be emailed to you in a PDF attachment once it has been processed and approved. This notification will be sent to the email address you provided during the application process.

The approved e-visa for Zimbabweans is electronically linked to your passport and will be checked when you arrive in Rwanda. You should also bring your printed e-visa and present it to border officials upon arrival. A Zimbabwe passport is also required.

5.  Zimbabweans' FAQs about Kuwait 

Can I use the Rwanda eVisa for business meetings or conferences?

Yes, the Rwanda eVisa can be used for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or seminars. However, if you are planning to stay for an extended period or work in Rwanda, you may need to apply for a different type of visa or work permit.

Can I travel to Rwanda with an eVisa if I’m transiting through Kigali?

Yes, travelers with a transit visa can enter Rwanda for a short stay if they are transiting through Kigali International Airport. The transit visa is typically valid for up to 72 hours.

Can I apply for a Rwanda eVisa on arrival?

No, travelers must apply for the eVisa before arriving in Rwanda. However, Rwanda has visa-on-arrival facilities for certain nationals, but it is always safer to apply online in advance to ensure a smoother entry process.

What are the must-see attractions in Rwanda?

Rwanda is a country with incredible natural beauty and cultural heritage. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• Volcanoes National Park: Known for its famous mountain gorillas, this park offers an unforgettable trekking experience.
• Kigali Genocide Memorial: A powerful site that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide and educates visitors about Rwanda’s history.
• Nyungwe Forest National Park: A beautiful rainforest offering treks and a chance to spot chimpanzees and other wildlife.
• Lake Kivu: A stunning lake where visitors can enjoy boat rides, beach relaxation, and scenic views.
• Akagera National Park: A game reserve where you can go on safaris to see the Big Five, including lions, elephants, and rhinos.

Is Rwanda safe for Zimbabweans to travel to?

Yes, Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. Kigali, the capital, is a very clean, organized, and friendly city. Visitors from Zimbabwe and other countries are welcomed warmly. As with any international travel, it’s always best to follow local guidelines, remain aware of your surroundings, and stay updated on any safety information.

How can I experience Rwanda’s culture?

• Traditional Dance and Music: Don’t miss the chance to see traditional Rwandan dance and music performances in Kigali or rural villages.
• Kinyarwanda Language: While French and English are widely spoken, learning a few basic Kinyarwanda phrases will enrich your travel experience.
• Rwandan Cuisine: Try local dishes such as Isombe (cassava leaves), Ubugari (fermented cassava), and grilled meats like Brochettes. You can enjoy these at local eateries or restaurants.

What adventure activities can I do in Rwanda?

• Gorilla Trekking: This is the highlight for many visitors to Rwanda, where you trek through the Volcanoes National Park to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Canopy Walks: Take a walk above the forest floor in Nyungwe Forest National Park for breathtaking views and to see the wildlife.
• Lake Activities: Go kayaking, canoeing, or take a boat ride on Lake Kivu to enjoy the tranquil waters and surrounding landscapes.
• Safari in Akagera: Explore Akagera National Park with game drives and boat safaris to spot a wide range of animals, including elephants, zebras, and giraffes.

How can I learn more about Rwanda’s history?

• Genocide Memorials: The Kigali Genocide Memorial and other local sites offer profound insights into Rwanda’s tragic past and its remarkable recovery.
• Cultural Tours: Visit local villages and interact with Rwandans to learn more about their traditions, customs, and the journey of reconciliation post-genocide.

What is the best time to visit Rwanda?

Rwanda is a year-round destination, but the dry seasons (from June to September and December to February) are considered the best for trekking and safaris. The weather remains temperate year-round, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

How do I travel around Rwanda?

• Public Transport: There are buses and shared taxis for longer routes, but they may not always be as comfortable as private transport.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car, often with a driver, is a popular way to explore Rwanda, especially for travelers heading to remote areas like Volcanoes National Park.
• Motorbike Taxis: Known as moto taxis, these are a fast and affordable way to get around in cities like Kigali.

6. Conclusion

With Global Immigration Service, you can choose the processing time of your e-visa, from 24 hours to 3 business days. The sooner you want to obtain an e-visa for Rwanda, the more service fees you have to pay. However, if there are any errors in the information you've submitted, the process may be delayed. It's critical to double-check everything you've entered before submitting your final application.

Besides, we also provide other service packages to help customers have a good trip to Rwanda, such as Rwanda travel insurance, e-sim card in Rwanda, and car pick-up services in Rwanda