To study at any of the universities in Rwanda, international students must obtain a Rwandan student visa depending on their country of origin. However, it is recommended to always check visa requirements with the consulate/embassy.

To get a Rwandan student visa, you must first enroll in an educational institution in Rwanda.

The student must then apply to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permission to be issued a student visa.

Requirements for student entry into Rwanda

Any foreign national who intends to enter Rwanda for the purpose of study must:

• Obtain a Rwandan visa (if applicable) to facilitate entry into the country.
• Enter Seychelles only through authorized ports of entry.
• Present a valid passport to an immigration officer at the port of entry.
• Announce the purpose of entry to the islands and the intended educational institution.
• After entering the country, go to the specified immigration office and get a student pass for studying in the Seychelles.
• Compliance with the criteria for obtaining a visa

The following criteria must also be met:

• An acceptance letter confirming that the applicant has been offered a place on a full-time course at a recognized educational institution must be provided.
• Applicants must be able to demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves in the country.
• It is necessary to prove that payment for the training course has been made in full.
• It is necessary to take out private health insurance and provide documentary evidence of this.
• The candidate must have a strong intention to return to their country after the study period.

If the Ministry of Foreign Affairs gives authorization to obtain a visa, you can apply at one of the Seychelles embassies or consulates located near you by presenting the following documents:

• Confirmation of authorization from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (for example, visa authorization number).
• Your birth certificate
• Your high school diploma or other previous academic qualifications
• A medical certificate issued by a certified doctor stating that you are free of any infectious diseases. The certificate must be issued within the last three months.
• Police certificate issued within the last six months.
• If you are under 18: permission to travel from your parent or legal guardian(s).
• Rwanda does not have a strict visa policy but allows visa-free entry to only a few neighboring countries.

Important points to pay attention to

After submitting your completed application, you will need to wait between one and seven days for your application to be processed, although this may take longer depending on the specific embassy/consulate. After processing the application, you can pick up the visa during the reception hours.

Since different embassies or consulates may have their own rules and requirements, it is always recommended to contact them first. You will find out if you need to make an appointment, opening hours and special requirements.