GETTING A VISA FOR UGANDA AND RWANDA (GUIDELINES).
Guide to Getting a Visa for Uganda and Rwanda
A visa is a document that allows you to enter another country legally. One popular option for visitors is the East African Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for up to 90 days. This visa can be used multiple times, but only for tourism. You can also get a single-entry visa for either Uganda or Rwanda, which is valid for travel and other short-term visits within the country.
About Uganda
Uganda is home to many natural wonders:
The Nile River, the world’s longest river, starts here. Mountain gorillas, rare tree-climbing lions, and the Rwenzori Mountains—some of the highest snow-capped mountains in Africa. This beautiful country is located in East Africa, sharing borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Tanzania.
A Ugandan visa allows visitors to enjoy:
Beach holidays, wildlife safaris,mountain trekking, and river rafting, vibrant nightlife, Primate trekking, especially for gorilla and chimpanzee experiences.
Getting a Visa for Uganda
You can apply for a Ugandan visa at a Ugandan embassy in your country or online through Uganda’s e-Visa system (https://www.visas.immigration.go.ug/)
STEPS
1. Go to the official e-Visa website.
2. Choose the type of visa you need and fill out the application
3. Submit required documents, like a passport photo and travel details.
Processing time: About 3 working days you’ll receive a confirmation email with a barcode to show when entering Uganda.
Visa Fees:
Ordinary visa: $50 USD, valid for 90 days.
East African Tourist Visa: $100 USD, valid for 90 days across Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
Note: Nationals from the East African Community (EAC) countries do not need a visa. Other travelers, including from the European Union, USA, Japan, and China, may need a visa unless exempted.
Payment: Fees can be paid online or at the bank, but are non-refundable.
About Rwanda
Rwanda is located in central East Africa. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” it boasts:
Mountain gorillas in the wild, Virunga Mountains for hiking and scenic views, Beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and cultural heritage sites
Rwanda borders Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Burundi.
Getting a Visa for Rwanda
Starting from August 1, 2016, Rwanda offers a 30-day single-entry visa:
Cost: $30 USD and its available on arrival in cash (USD, EUR, or GBP) or through an online application.
Some nationalities, such as from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Mauritius, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Rwanda also provides visas for citizens of many countries like the USA, UK, Germany, South Africa, and New Zealand.
East African Tourist Visa
If you plan to visit Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya in one trip, the East African Tourist Visa is a great option. It’s valid for 90 days and can be used across all three countries. You can apply at the embassy of any of these countries or online.
Requirements for East African Tourist Visa:
1. Valid passport (at least six months old)
2. Travel itinerary and proof of accommodation
3. A return ticket
4. Any necessary travel documents