One Visa, Three Incredible Countries
Imagine landing in Kenya, witnessing the epic Maasai Mara Great Migration, crossing the border seamlessly to trek with gorillas in Uganda, and finishing your adventure by hiking Rwanda’s misty hills—all on a single visa. That’s the power of the East Africa Tourist Visa: one document that unlocks Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for hassle-free, continuous travel.
Launched to promote regional tourism and ease of movement, this visa is a strategic advantage for anyone planning a multi-country East African adventure. Whether you’re a safari lover, photographer, or cultural explorer, it’s the most efficient way to experience the heart of Africa.
What Is the East Africa Tourist Visa?
The East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) is a joint visa that allows multiple entries among Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda within a 90-day period. It is a single tourist visa designed specifically for travelers visiting two or more of these countries.
- Type: Multiple-entry tourist visa
- Validity: 90 days (from the date of issue)
- Fee: USD $100 (non-refundable)
- Purpose: Tourism only (not valid for work or study)
- Eligible Countries: Open to nationals from all countries that require a visa to enter any of the three participating states.
EATV vs. Single-Country Visas: The Value Proposition
| Feature | East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) | Individual Country Visas |
| Coverage | Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda | One country only |
| Cost | $100 total | Approx. $50–$60 per country (min. $100 for two countries) |
| Process | One single online application | Separate application for each country |
| Entries | Multiple entries allowed between the three states | Typically single entry per visa |
| Best For | Multi-country safaris and regional tours | Single-destination trips |
For any itinerary involving at least two of the three countries, the EATV provides superior cost savings and logistical convenience.
How to Apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa
You must apply online through the official immigration portal of the first country you plan to visit (Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda).
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official e-visa portal of your first destination:
- Select “East Africa Tourist Visa” as the visa type.
- Upload the required documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Return flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation or detailed travel itinerary
- Pay the $100 fee online using a debit/credit card.
- Wait for approval: Processing typically takes 3–7 working days, though we recommend applying two weeks out.
- Receive your visa by email and print it for presentation on arrival.
Validity & Entry Rules
- The visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
- You can enter and exit freely between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
- Crucial Rule: Once you leave the region (e.g., travel to Tanzania or Dubai), the EATV becomes invalid—even if it’s still within the 90 days.
- Extensions are not permitted — you must reapply if your stay exceeds 90 days.
Important Conditions
- The EATV must be applied for from the first country of entry.
- It is not transferable between travelers.
- You must enter through the country that issued your visa (for example, if issued by Rwanda, your first entry must be into Rwanda).
- Tanzania, Burundi, and South Sudan are not part of the EATV agreement.
Example Itinerary Using the EATV
Here’s a typical route where the EATV is invaluable:
Start in Kenya (Maasai Mara safari) → Cross to Uganda (Gorilla trekking in Bwindi) → Fly to Rwanda (Kigali history and Volcanoes NP hiking) → Return home.
You’ll experience three distinct countries and ecosystems in one continuous journey, never having to worry about border visa applications.
Pro Tips from the Ikigai Travel Team
- Apply at least two weeks before travel to avoid peak season delays.
- Always carry printed copies of your visa approval and hotel bookings at land border crossings; this speeds up the process significantly.
- Ensure your flight or overland routes connecting the three countries are booked before applying — many immigration officers ask for proof of onward travel.
- If you’re joining a regional safari operator, let them know you’re using the EATV — they can help streamline border procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The visa is strictly for tourism purposes.
No. Only Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda are included. You will need separate visas for those countries.
Unfortunately not. You must apply for a new visa once it expires.
Yes, every traveler requires their own EATV unless exempted by nationality.
Final Thoughts: The Smart Traveler’s Choice
If your heart is set on discovering East Africa’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes in one cohesive trip, the East Africa Tourist Visa is an excellent investment. It simplifies logistics, saves money, and allows you to focus on what really matters—the unforgettable experience.
Ready to Explore East Africa?
Our safari specialists can help you plan a seamless, multi-country East African adventure using the East Africa Tourist Visa.
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