Rwanda business visa application, requirements, price, and processing time

Any foreign national from a non-visa-exempt country planning to travel to Rwanda on business must do so with a Rwanda business visa. Rwandan business visas are available to eligible applicants looking to visit the East African country on business. In this post, we review the business visa application process in detail so you will have a clear idea about what is required and how to apply for it. Keep reading to learn more.

Rwanda – East Africa

Rwanda is an East African country with a long history of the conflict that lasted decades. However, with the introduction of democracy and the transition to civil rule, the country has witnessed a resurgence. Rwanda has grown in leaps and bounds over the years and is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa and the world. One of the chief drivers of the economy is tourism. The tourist industry is a major revenue earner due to the influx of tourists who visit the country to enjoy breathtaking views and the rich wildlife in the heavily forested regions of the country.

Another industry that has done quite well is the services industry, with a tech hub emerging in Kigali's capital. The government has introduced different visa programs to boost the economy and attract foreign direct investment, including business visas for business persons, investors, and professionals.

Rwanda Business Visa

The business visa is a travel permit issued to visitors in Rwanda for business-related activities. The visa is a short-term visa for those coming for business meetings, seminars, conferences, contract negotiations, etc. You can also visit Rwanda to establish a new business, invest in certain sectors of the economy, or to even negotiate contracts. The flexibility of this visa makes it the perfect visa for business and non-business-related activities.

It is important to point out at this juncture that the business visa is not a work visa, so you can't engage in any activity that will earn you direct income, as that will be illegal. You must visit the embassy to apply for a work visa to work in Rwanda. 

In addition, you do not qualify for a residency permit under business visa regulations unless you apply for a residency visa.

Who Needs A Business Visa?

The Rwandan business visa is not for everyone, so bear this in mind. You only need a business visa if you are not from a visa-exempt country. The Rwandan government has a visa-free list compromising countries whose citizens do not require visas to enter and stay in the country for a short time. You need a business visa if your country is not on the visa-exempt list.

Rwanda Business Visa Application Requirements

Here are the visa requirements for this business visa.

Application Form: You will need an application form duly completed and signed by you. The form must contain your personal information as they appear on your passport and other travel document. Ensure that your details are accurate and without errors; otherwise, they will be rejected.

Passport: You need a valid passport that has a minimum of six months' validity. The passport must be in your name and have at least one empty page for immigration stamps.

Photograph: Two passport-sized photographs in a white background taken recently. The photos should show your face clearly, including your forehead and full facial features. Avoid glasses or head Gear that will distort your image.

Visa Fee:  The visa fee must be paid for document processing. 

Fees may be paid via bank transfers or credit or debit cards.

Health Insurance: A valid health insurance certificate to cover international trips for medical emergencies.

Financial Proof: Three months' bank statement of account to prove that you have the financial capacity to cover your bills during your stay in Rwanda.

How To Apply For A Rwanda Business Visa

The government of Rwanda has made it easier for applicants to apply for business visas via two options.

Embassy:  One option is to visit your country's Rwandan embassy or consulate to book an appointment. An interview date will be set for you, which you must attend with original and photocopies of your documents as updated above. After the interview, you will be updated regarding the process and invited to collect your visa and passport once it is ready.

The other option is to apply for the visa online, however, note that not all applicants may apply online using this option. Those who are eligible may visit VisaHQ to complete the process in a few steps

• Log onto VisaHQ 

• Select Rwanda as your destination

• Select your country of citizenship

• Choose a business visa as your option

• Fill out the application form

• Upload your documents

• Pay the visa fees

• Submit for approval

The Rwanda business visa will be sent to your registered email within 48 hours or less.