Rwanda Visa for German Citizens
German citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in Rwanda for $50, valid for 30 days with single entry. Rwanda's open visa policy means all nationalities receive the same straightforward treatment at immigration. German travelers can also apply for an e-Visa in advance through irembo.gov.rw. The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) is an excellent option for those combining Rwanda with Uganda and Kenya, providing 90 days and multiple entries between the three countries. Germany has historical ties to Rwanda (it was a German colony before World War I), and today the countries maintain strong development cooperation. Connections from Germany to Kigali are available through Brussels Airlines from Brussels, KLM from Amsterdam, and Turkish Airlines from Istanbul, all with convenient departures from German airports. Yellow fever vaccination is required only if transiting through an endemic country.
Visa At a Glance
- Visa Type
- Visa on Arrival
- Best Option
- Visa on arrival ($50) or East Africa Tourist Visa ($100)
- Cost
- $50
- Processing
- 0-0 days
- Validity
- 30 days
- Entries
- Single
E-Visa Application
RecommendedCost
$50
Processing
3-5 business days
Stay Permitted
30 days
Entries
Single
How to Apply for E-Visa
Go to irembo.gov.rw and create an account
Select 'Tourist Visa' or 'East Africa Tourist Visa'
Fill in the application form
Upload a passport-size photo (JPEG, white background)
Upload passport bio page scan
Upload return or onward flight ticket
Upload proof of accommodation
Upload yellow fever certificate if required
Pay $50 (or $100 for East Africa Tourist Visa) online
Receive approval via email within 3-5 business days
Print the approval letter for immigration
Requirements
E-Visa Documents
- Valid German passport (6+ months validity beyond entry, 2 blank pages)
- Passport-size photo (digital, white background)
- Scanned passport bio page
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Yellow fever certificate (if arriving from endemic country)
- Proof of sufficient funds (may be requested)
At Immigration
What to Present
- •Valid German passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages)
- •Printed e-Visa approval letter (if applied in advance)
- •Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from endemic country)
- •Return or onward flight ticket
- •Proof of accommodation
- •$50 visa fee in cash or card
Tips
- •Have $50 USD ready or a card for payment
- •Immigration at Kigali airport is modern and efficient
- •German passport holders are processed quickly
Typical processing time: 5-15 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bringing plastic bags into Rwanda (banned nationwide)
- Passport with fewer than 6 months validity
- Confusing Rwanda's 30-day visa with Kenya's 90-day e-Visa
- Not carrying USD for visa payment (Euros are not accepted for visa fees)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do German citizens need a visa for Rwanda?
Yes. German citizens need a visa, but Rwanda offers visa on arrival ($50) to all nationalities. You can also apply for an e-Visa at irembo.gov.rw. No embassy appointment is needed.
How do I fly from Germany to Rwanda?
Brussels Airlines via Brussels and KLM via Amsterdam are the most convenient options from German airports. Turkish Airlines via Istanbul and Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa from Frankfurt are also popular routes.
Can I pay the visa fee in Euros?
The visa fee is $50 USD. At Kigali airport, you can pay in USD cash or by card. Euros are generally not accepted for visa payments. Carry some US dollars or use a card.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccine?
Only if transiting through an endemic country. European connections via Brussels, Amsterdam, or Istanbul do not require it. If routing through Addis Ababa or Nairobi, you will need the certificate.
How long can German citizens stay in Rwanda?
The standard tourist visa allows 30 days. The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) provides 90 days across Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.