International travel and COVID-19

Before travelling:

If you have not completed a COVID-19 vaccine series, you should continue to avoid non-essential travel to all destinations.

Useful links

Rwanda travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

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Risk level

Rwanda - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Rwanda due to the ongoing insecurity in some neighbouring countries.

Border with the Democratic Republic of Congo - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to the rebel groups in DRC near the border with Rwanda.

 

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Safety and security

COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions

COVID-19 preventative measures and restrictions are still in effect in some destinations.

These could include:

  • curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
  • mandatory mask use
  • required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces

Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in effect.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

International borders

The volatile situation in the eastern part of neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could lead to possible incursions into western Rwanda by DRC armed rebel groups.

Due to political tensions between Rwanda and Uganda, the land border may be closed without notice.

Attacks in the area bordering Burundi occur regularly. Be extremely vigilant as the security situation can deteriorate suddenly.

Crime

The level of crime is relatively low. However, petty theft from cars and hotel rooms occurs. Pickpockets are active in crowded places. House break-ins have occurred in Kigali.

  • Remain alert to your surroundings
  • Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
  • Don’t show signs of affluence
  • Don’t venture out alone or travel outside major cities after dark

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

In general, the main roads in Kigali and linking Kigali to other cities are relatively well maintained. However:

  • dirt roads are in poor condition
  • excessive speed, careless driving, the lack of basic safety equipment on many vehicles, the presence of pedestrians, cyclists and livestock on the roads, and the lack of streetlights pose hazards
  • some roads may be difficult or impossible to access during the rainy season
  • police checkpoints are frequent

Avoid travel after dark, particularly in rural areas.

In the event of a traffic accident:

  • in Kigali, dial 113 for police
  • elsewhere, go directly to the nearest police station

Public transportation

Shared buses and minibuses, the most common form of public transportation, can be dangerous due to reckless driving. 

  • Use licensed public bus and auto taxi companies
  • Confirm the fare with the driver before departing
  • Be cautious when using motorbike taxis, as they are unsafe
  • Don’t use them at night

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Adventure tourism

Security incidents have been recently reported in the Nyungwe Forest National Park. No recent incidents have been reported at Volcanoes National Park.

When visiting a park:

  • you must purchase a park permit from Rwanda’s Office of Tourism and National Parks.
  • be accompanied by an official guide
  • only use established trails

Rwanda’s Office of Tourism and National Parks

General safety information

Tourist facilities are adequate in Kigali and other major towns, but are limited in remote areas. In remote areas, access to electricity is limited. During the dry season, there may be water shortages in some areas of the country and in some parts of Kigali.

Police officers, especially those on the street, may not speak English or French.

 

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Entry and exit requirements

COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements

Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:

  • entry or exit bans
  • quarantine
  • mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
  • suspensions or reductions of international transportation options

Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.

Before travelling:

  • verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
  • consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
  • monitor the media for the latest information
  • reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator

The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.

Useful links

Travellers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Rwandan Ministry of Health has established procedures for travellers wishing to enter the country from areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) affected by the Ebola virus disease. This includes health care and humanitarian workers and volunteers. Among other things, they are subject to a quick thermal scanner screening. You may be subject to a 21-day quarantine period before your travel to Rwanda. Follow instructions of local authorities if you are travelling to Rwanda from the DRC.

Rwanda’s Ministry of Health

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Rwandan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Border closures

Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease, authorities could close the Rwanda-Democratic Republic of Congo border at any time without notice.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Rwanda.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Visas

Canadians must be in possession of a visa to visit Rwanda.

Citizens of all countries get 30 days visa upon arrival, without prior application. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days after entering Rwanda, you must seek an extension before the expiry of the entry visa. Applications must be made in person at the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration in Kacyiru, Kigali. Anyone who overstays their visa is subject to a fine.

You can also apply for a tourist visa at the nearest Rwandan diplomatic mission or at the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration in Kigali.

Tourist visa: Required 
Work permit: required
Business visa: Required, valid for 90 days and may be extended once (work is not permitted but the holder of this class of visa can change their status)

East African Tourist Visa

The East African Tourist Visa allows for multiple entries to each Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. It is valid for 90 days and cannot be extended. You must obtain this visa from the country that is the first entry point. If you plan on beginning your trip in Rwanda, you must obtain it online. 

Work permits

You must obtain a work permit issued by the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration if you are planning to work in the country. Requirements for a work permit include that you must have obtained a valid police clearance from the country in which you have been residing for the last six months. Obtaining a police certificate from Canada while in Rwanda can take up to six months.

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

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Health

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

Risk

  • There is low potential for yellow fever exposure in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Recommendation

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air..

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Meningococcal disease

This country is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area where there are many cases of meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. Travellers who may be at high risk should consider getting vaccinated. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.

Influenza

Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.

COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check the Entry/exit requirements section.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Malaria
  • There is a risk of malaria throughout the year in the whole country.
  • Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
  • See a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss the benefits of taking antimalarial medication and to determine which one to take.

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in East Africa, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in East Africa. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Travellers' diarrhea

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis can be spread to humans through freshwater sources contaminated by blood flukes (tiny worms). The eggs of the worms can cause stomach illnesses like diarrhea and cramps or urinary problems. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Avoid swimming in freshwater sources (lakes, rivers, ponds). There is no vaccine available for schistosomiasis.

Insects and Illness

In some areas in East Africa, certain insects carry and spread diseases like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, onchocerciasis (river blindness), Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus and yellow fever.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Chikungunya

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Dengue
  • In this country, risk of dengue is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in East Africa, like avian influenza, Ebola, and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

COVID-19 - Testing facilities

Consult the following links to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test:

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

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Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Illegal or restricted items and activities

Non-biodegradable bags

Non-biodegradable bags are prohibited in Rwanda. If you arrive with such bags at the airport in Kigali, they might be confiscated.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Drunk drivers are subject to a short prison sentence and a fine.

Photography

Photography of government buildings is prohibited. You should also avoid taking photographs in border areas.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Rwanda.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Rwanda, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Rwanda.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Rwanda by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Rwanda to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

Driving

You must carry an international driving permit.

More about the International Driving Permit

Use of a mobile telephone

The use of a mobile telephone while driving is illegal, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.

Insurance

Third-party insurance is required to cover damages if you are involved in an accident resulting in injuries even if you are not found to be at fault. If you are suspected of causing an accident, your driver’s licence can be confiscated during the investigation. If the accident results in death, you may be subject to a jail sentence.

Money

The currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF).

Most hotels accept credit cards; but it is recommended to confirm with your hotel before arrival. In Kigali, several businesses, including restaurants and boutiques, accept credit cards.

Expect to handle other expenses in cash. Most shops will not accept or exchange U.S. dollars printed before 2006.

ATMs are abundant in Kigali, and usually accept Canadian ATM cards. Credit card cash withdrawals are available only through a few banks in Kigali.

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Natural disasters and climate

Earthquakes

Seismic activity is unpredictable and infrequent, but the possibility of earthquakes exists.

Volcanoes

Volcanic eruptions have occurred in Goma (DRC) and may pose a hazard in Gisenyi in northern Rwanda. Nyiragongo volcano, located near Goma, is an active volcano. Exercise a high degree of caution if you travel near the volcano and closely follow the advice of local authorities.

Rainy season

During the two rainy seasons (February to May and September to December), intense thunderstorms are frequent.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

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Need help?

Local services

Emergency services

Emergency services exist but may be subject to certain limitations. In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 112
  • medical assistance: 912
  • gender- based violence: 3512

Consular assistance

Due to the ongoing pandemic, our consular services could be limited. Contact us by email or telephone before visiting our offices.

Kigali - Office of the High Commission of Canada
Street Address59 KN16 Avenue, Kiyovu, Kigali, RwandaPostal AddressP.O. Box 1177, Kigali, RwandaTelephone+ 250 252 554 800Fax+250 252 554 810Emailkgali-cs@international.gc.caInternethttps://www.Canada.ca/Canada-And-RwandaServicesPassport Services AvailableTwitterCanada in Rwanda and Burundi

For emergency consular assistance, call the Office of the High Commission of Canada in Kigali and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

Disclaimer

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services.

Risk Levels

  Take normal security precautions

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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