If you're planning a trip across East Africa, you’re probably asking how to apply for an East African Tourist Visa for Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. Many travelers want a simple way to visit all three countries without applying for separate visas.
The East African Tourist Visa (EATV) solves this by allowing seamless travel across the region under one visa.
Quick Answer
To apply for the East African Tourist Visa, fill out the application form, submit required documents, pay $100, and apply online or at an embassy or immigration office in your entry country.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for East African Tourist Visa
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Make sure you qualify.
- You must be a foreigner (non-citizen)
- Your visit must be strictly for tourism purposes
- You plan to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda
👉 Note: You must enter through the country that issued your visa.
Step 2: Fill the Application Form (EATV Form 1)
Start your application.
- Complete the East Africa Tourist Visa form
- Ensure all details are accurate
- Avoid errors that could delay approval
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
You will need the following:
- Passport-size photo (white background, no glasses or caps)
- Completed application form
- Visa application letter addressed to the issuing country
Supporting documents:
- Travel itinerary
- Return ticket
- Passport bio-data page copy
- Recent passport photo
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Choose your preferred method.
You can apply:
- Online
- At an embassy or consulate
- At an immigration office
Depending on your entry country:
- Kenya – Apply via embassy or e-visa system
- Rwanda – Apply via online visa portal
- Uganda – Apply via immigration system
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Complete payment.
- Cost: $100 USD
- Online payments may include a 3% surcharge
Keep proof of payment.
Step 6: Receive and Use Your Visa
After approval:
- The visa is valid for 90 days
- It allows multiple entries within the three countries
- It becomes invalid once you exit the three countries
Extra Tips and Best Practices
- Apply before your travel date to avoid delays
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
- Plan your itinerary clearly before applying
- Carry both digital and printed copies of documents
- Always enter through the issuing country first
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying through one country but entering through another
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Uploading unclear passport photos
- Forgetting the Yellow Fever certificate
- Assuming it allows travel outside the three countries
FAQs About East African Tourist Visa
1. Is the East African Tourist Visa single or multiple entry?
It is a single entry visa, but allows multiple entries within Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda only.
2. Can I use it outside East Africa?
No. It is only valid within the three partner countries.
3. Do East African citizens need this visa?
No. Citizens of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda can travel using national ID cards.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to apply for an East African Tourist Visa makes traveling across the region simple and stress-free. Instead of handling multiple visa applications, you get one document that opens up three countries.
Prepare your documents well, follow the correct entry rules, and you’ll enjoy a smooth travel experience across East Africa.
