What Is the Rwanda Transit Visa (Class V3)?
Rwanda’s Transit Visa allows a single entry stay of up to 72 hours while you connect to a third country. It’s perfect for long layovers in Kigali, overland trips between Tanzania and Uganda, or short Lake Kivu stopovers before continuing your journey.
Who Needs It?
- Travelers whose layover exceeds the airport’s sterile transit time (usually 8–12 hours) and who plan to exit the terminal.
- Overland passengers driving or busing through Rwanda en route to another nation.
- Regional travelers who want to spend a night or two in Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, or Akagera before continuing elsewhere.
If you remain airside at Kigali International Airport for a same-day connection, you generally do not need a visa—but confirm with your airline.
Eligibility & Typical Use Cases
| Situation | Need a Transit Visa? |
|---|---|
| Overnight stop in Kigali between two international flights | ✅ Yes |
| Driving from Tanzania to Uganda via Rwanda | ✅ Yes |
| Landing in Kigali, same-plane continuation within a few hours, staying airside | ❌ Usually no |
| Border hop from DR Congo for a meeting, returning within 3 days | ✅ Yes |
| Cruise or Lake Kivu transfer entering via La Corniche and exiting through Gatuna within 72 hours | ✅ Yes |
Documents You’ll Need
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond arrival.
- Recent passport photo.
- Proof of onward travel to a third country (flight/bus ticket, vehicle logbook, or invitation letter).
- Brief itinerary or accommodation booking (hotel, lodge, host letter).
- Yellow fever certificate if you’re arriving from or transiting a risk country.
How to Apply
- Submit your application for Transit Visa (Class V3).
- Make the payment.
- Upload the required documents (passport, photo, onward ticket, proof of stay).
- Receive the approval email (typically within 3–5 business days) and print it for border control.
Where You Can Enter
The Transit Visa is valid at all official checkpoints, including:
- Airports: Kigali International (KGL), Kamembe (KME).
- Uganda Borders: Gatuna/Katuna, Kagitumba/Mirama Hills, Cyanika/Kyanika.
- DR Congo Borders: La Corniche & Petite Barrière (Gisenyi–Goma), Cyangugu/Bukavu, Bugarama.
- Burundi Borders: Nemba, Ruhwa, Akanyaru-Haut/Bas.
- Tanzania Border: Rusumo.
Tips for Easy Transit Through Rwanda
- Apply at least a week before travel so you have the approval before departure.
- Book accommodation even if you plan a quick overnight stay—immigration may ask for proof.
- Keep copies of your onward ticket handy for both arrival and departure.
- Respect the 72-hour limit. Overstays incur fines ($50 per day) and may affect future visas.
- If your plans change and you need more time, visit Immigration HQ in Kigali before your visa expires to request an extension or upgrade to a Single Entry Visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Transit Visa for tourism?
You can explore Kigali, Lake Kivu, or nearby parks during your 72-hour window, but if you want more time, apply for a Single Entry Visa.
Do I need a Transit Visa for a 10-hour layover if I stay inside the airport?
No, as long as you remain airside and your airline allows it. Leaving the terminal requires a visa.
What if my flight is delayed and I exceed 72 hours?
Contact immigration immediately (at the airport or by phone) with proof of delay to avoid overstay penalties.
Does the Transit Visa count toward the East Africa Tourist Visa?
No. They are separate products. If you’ll be visiting Kenya or Uganda as well, the East Africa Tourist Visa (valid 90 days) may be better value.
Rwanda’s Transit Visa is a quick, affordable way to turn a layover into a mini-adventure—just apply early, keep your documents ready, and enjoy the stopover.
