Three countries, different routes and destinations but one document, now is the time to make life easy by using an East African Visa, tailored to enable foreigners intending to explore more than one of the three East African nations in a single package. Here is an updated fact about the features on an east African visa, how to get it, when, why and at what cost.
Due to the diversity and uniqueness of East Africa, the different heads of states agreed and came up with an initiative of this visa, to boost regional tourism and save tourists from spending a lot of money on single entry visas to each country; an idea that led to the birth of an East African Tourist Visa.
Note that this visa is only valid in the following countries; the Republic of Uganda, Republic of Rwanda, and Republic of Kenya. Though Tanzania is one of the countries in the East African region (the largest), it is not included.
Before we dive into the visa arrangements, here is why you should purchase one. East Africa is in the continent of Africa, with one of the best climate and hospitality in the world. It is a destination where you can find the world’s most powerful waterfalls in Murchison Falls National Park, rare tree climbing lions lying flat in the tree branches in Queen Elizabeth national park in Uganda, the highest concentration of primates on earth; chimpanzees, and the endangered mountain gorillas at Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga and Bwindi impenetrable national park in Uganda.
The beauty hidden in flamingoes on the shores of Lake Nakuru national park, magnificent Great Rift Valley and wildlife phenomenon in the annual wildebeest migration in Masai Mara national park in the Republic of Kenya is unmatched. Clean water, safety and security, accommodation, and transportation is not an issue.
Validity of the East African Visa.
From the date of acquisition, an East African Tourist Visa lasts for 90 days, within the member countries (Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda). It is most important for a tourist who wants to visit more than one of the above countries altogether.
Where to get it?
It can be acquired from any of the diplomatic representations of Uganda, the Republic of Kenya, or Republic of Rwanda, at the Immigration offices only for tourism. The other option is also applying and acquiring it online, but from the right sources. For online, you must submit the EATV form 1 or get in touch with a trusted travel agent to arrange one for you.
Application of this Visa can be done a few months to the trip, or upon arrival, but note that where you get the document is where the trip commences.
In Uganda, the information regarding the east African tourist Visa can be got from the Visa application process on the consular section of the website of your local Uganda embassy.
Those in Rwanda can submit their application through the online Visa Application system, or you may reach out to the local Rwandan embassy.
Whereas as you decide to start your journey from Kenya, then find all the information you need from the visa application process on the consular section of the Kenya embassy’s website.
Who qualifies for it?
This visa is designed for foreigners from all parts of the world, except expatriates or foreign non-residents. The application is done individually, with genuine documents, valid for not less than 6 months.
Visa application requirements.
Recent colored passport photograph with no cap, glasses, mask or scurf. This is to be attached to the application form. An application form is filled with required details.
A vasa application letter addressed to the authorities in the country you intend to pick it from or start the trip.
A visa application fee; which is 100 USD or its equivalent.
Note that; by design, it is a single entry Visa, yet by function, it is a multiple entry visa within the member countries and it cannot be renewed once it expires.
Therefore, save yourself from the hustle or from spending a lot of money by acquiring an East African Tourist Visa, not for work, but an adventure. For more information regarding this document contact us.
