For travelers dreaming of a multi-country adventure through the heart of Africa, the East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) is a game-changer. This single visa simplifies travel logistics and makes it more affordable to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of three of the region’s most popular destinations: Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
What is the East Africa Tourist Visa?
The EATV is a special joint tourist visa that allows foreign nationals to travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for tourism purposes without needing to obtain separate visas for each country. It is a brilliant initiative by the heads of state of these three nations to promote regional tourism and offer a more cost-effective and convenient way for visitors to experience their combined attractions.
Key Features of the EATV:
- Cost-Effective: The visa costs a flat fee of $100 USD. This is often significantly less than the total cost of purchasing individual visas for each country.
- Multiple-Entry: While the visa is valid for a single entry into the region, it allows for multiple entries between the three participating countries (Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda) for the duration of its validity.
- Validity: The EATV is valid for 90 days from the date of issue and is not extendable.
- Purpose: It is issued strictly for tourism and does not permit employment, study, or other business-related activities.
Important Note: The EATV is a joint visa for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Other East African countries, such as Tanzania, are not included in this visa scheme. If your travel plans include a visit to Tanzania, you will need to obtain a separate visa for that country.
How to Get Your East Africa Tourist Visa
The process of obtaining the EATV is straightforward, but it’s crucial to follow the correct procedures to ensure a smooth journey. The key is to apply for the visa through the country that will be your first point of entry into the region.
1. Application Method
You have two main options for applying for the EATV:
- Online Application: This is the most recommended and common method. Each participating country has an official online immigration portal where you can apply. You must choose the online portal of the country you plan to enter first.
- Uganda: visas.immigration.go.ug
- Rwanda: irembo.gov.rw
- Kenya: The process for EATV applications starting in Kenya has historically been challenging, and it is often recommended to apply through an embassy or consular office if Kenya is your first destination. However, some sources indicate that an online option may be available. Always verify the latest information on the official government website.
- In-Person Application: You can also apply for the visa at the diplomatic representation (embassy or consulate) of Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda in your home country. Some major airports and border crossings also offer the possibility of getting the visa on arrival, though applying in advance is always the best way to avoid potential delays or issues.
2. Required Documents
While the specific requirements may vary slightly depending on the country of application, you will generally need to provide the following documents:
- A scanned copy of your passport’s bio-data page. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry.
- A recent, colored passport-size photograph with a white background. The photo should be taken without glasses, hats, or headscarves.
- A completed application form.
- A copy of your travel itinerary. This should detail your plans for visiting all three countries.
- Proof of a return flight ticket.
- An application letter addressed to the issuing authority, stating the purpose of your trip.
- A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required at the border.
3. Application Process and Payment
Once you have gathered your documents, you will follow these general steps:
- Start a new application on the relevant country’s official immigration portal.
- Accept the terms and conditions.
- Select the “East Africa Tourist Visa” as your visa type.
- Complete the application form and upload the required documents.
- A six-digit application ID will be generated. Keep this for your records.
- Pay the visa fee of $100 USD using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). Note that visa fees are non-refundable.
4. Processing and Approval
The processing time for the EATV can vary. Online applications typically take between one day to a full week. Once approved, you will receive an approval letter via email. It is essential to print this letter and carry it with you, as you will need to present it to immigration officers upon arrival, along with your passport and other required documents.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Apply in advance: To avoid any stress or complications upon arrival, apply for your visa at least a few weeks before your trip.
- Use official websites: Be wary of third-party websites that claim to help you obtain a visa. These sites can be fraudulent or charge excessive fees. Stick to the official government portals or your local embassy.
- Know your first entry point: Remember that the visa must be issued by the country you will enter first.
- Keep your documents handy: Have printed copies of your visa approval letter, travel itinerary, and other required documents ready to show immigration officials at each border crossing.
By understanding the requirements and following the correct application process, the East Africa Tourist Visa can unlock a truly incredible and seamless travel experience, allowing you to easily journey between the gorilla-filled mountains of Rwanda and Uganda and the vast savannahs of Kenya.
We at Mumwe Safaris can help you secure an East Africa tourist visa when you book a gorilla tour or car rental in Uganda with us- simply contact us now by emailing to [email protected] or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.