East African Tourist Visa – Uganda, Kenya & Rwanda
The East African Tourist Visa (EATV) is a joint visa initiative that allows travelers to visit Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda on a single visa. Launched to promote tourism and facilitate cross-border travel, the EATV is ideal for travelers planning multi-country East African trips, such as wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, and cultural tours.
Eligibility
The East African Tourist Visa is available to foreign nationals from most countries. Travelers must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry. The visa is primarily intended for tourism, but business visits may require separate visas or permits.
Validity and Duration
The EATV is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. Within this period, travelers can enter all three countries multiple times without applying for separate visas. This makes it ideal for safaris that cross borders, such as trips from Uganda to Rwanda for gorilla trekking or from Kenya to Uganda for wildlife adventures.
Application Process
Online Application
Travelers can apply online via official immigration websites of Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda. The process typically requires:
- A scanned passport bio-page
- Passport-size photo
- Travel itinerary or hotel bookings (optional but recommended)
- Payment of the visa fee
At the Border
Some travelers can obtain the EATV upon arrival at designated airports or land borders. However, online pre-approval is strongly recommended to avoid delays.
Cost of the East African Tourist Visa
- Single entry for all three countries: Approx. $100 USD per traveler (prices may vary slightly by nationality).
- The visa fee covers entry into Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda under one visa.
Key Benefits
- Single visa for three countries: Simplifies multi-country travel in East Africa.
- Multiple entries: Travelers can move between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda without obtaining separate visas.
- Extended stay: Up to 90 days, ideal for safaris, gorilla trekking, and cultural tours.
Important Travel Tips
- Carry a printed copy of the visa approval when traveling.
- Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity and blank pages.
- Check if your nationality requires additional permits or vaccinations, such as yellow fever vaccination, before travel.
- Apply online in advance to avoid border delays, especially during peak tourism seasons.
Conclusion
The East African Tourist Visa is a convenient solution for travelers exploring Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, a safari in Maasai Mara or Queen Elizabeth National Park, or cultural tours across East Africa, this visa saves time, cost, and hassle.
