Rwanda Introduces New and Friendlier Immigration Regulations, Reports KT Press

KIGALI, Rwanda, Oct. 29, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rwanda has reviewed its immigration regulations which will take effect on November 1, 2014.

Australians, Germans, Israelis, Newzealanders, South Africans, Swedish, Britons and Americans will now obtain visa upon arrival at any Rwandan entry point, without prior application.

"They shall get entry visa and pay visa fee upon arrival," a statement from the immigration office said. Entry Visa fee is $30 valid for a period of up to 30 days.

Those from the mentioned countries may choose to get visa at the Diplomatic mission (Except the UN mission in New York) or online.

Citizens of the East African Community states will continue to be issued with a six-month visitors' free pass (renewable) at entry points.

The landlocked country is also a member of the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries (CEPGL) involving Burundi and DRC, established in 1976 to ease traffic of people and goods.

DRC nationals will obtain a free visitor's visa for a stay not exceeding 90 days, as per CEPGL agreement. But due to strained relations, Rwandans beginning April, are required to apply and pay for a visa; $55 for ordinary passports and $35 for students.

Meanwhile, Singaporeans, Chinese, Mauritians and Philippines are exempted from entry or tourism visa for a stay of up to 90 days.

Those from countries not mentioned will get visa upon application before travelling and pay the fees.

The changes aim at facilitating trade and tourism.

Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda introduced a single Tourism Visa ($100) valid for 90 days. It can be extended for six months for foreign residents in any of the states with a valid work or residence permit.

Investors claim one of Africa's trade barriers is free movement of people.

President Paul Kagame has continued to advocate for East African Community member States to open their boarders to allow free movement of goods and people.

With its national carrier, Rwandair, operating flights to East Africa, Central Africa, West Africa, Southern Africa and the Middle East, Rwanda seeks to attract more investments.

World Bank's 'Doing Business' 2014 Report index ranks Rwanda the 2nd most improved country in the world and the 2nd easiest place to do business in Africa.

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SOURCE KT Press