General Information
U.S. citizens living or traveling in Rwanda are encouraged to sign up for our free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (formerly known as “Travel Registration” or “Registration with Embassies”) to receive the latest travel updates and information. By connecting with us on the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, it is easier for us to contact or assist you in case of emergency.
Due to local banking restrictions on the age of foreign (U.S.) currency that is accepted, the U.S. Embassy cashier is authorized to accept only U.S. currency printed from 2006 forward.
Payment is also accepted in Rwandan francs.
Click here for Information on changes to the Consular Schedule of Fees, effective April 13, 2012.
Find more useful information from the Department of State, including Travel Warnings. Find also the most recent Worldwide Caution announcement.
Find the most recent Messages for American Citizens.
Rwanda: Country Specific Information
Rwandan Immigration Requirements...Please read this important information before you depart the United States!!!
Consular Section Public Hours
+250 252 596-400 X2592
consularkigali@state.gov
Except on American and Rwandan holidays. (listed on the "Embassy News" page)
Non-Emergency Services
Mondays 08:00-12:00
Visa Interviews (by appointment only)
Tuesdays 8:00-12:00
American Citizen Services (by appointment only)
Wednesdays 8:00-12:00
Closed to the Public
Thursday 8:00-12:00
Visa Interviews (by appointment only)
Fridays 8:00-12:00
American Citizen Services (by appointment only)
Except on American and Rwandan holidays. (listed on the "Holidays" page)
Visa inquires are not accepted during ACS hours, and all visa inquires should be sent to ConsularKigali@state.gov.
Routine American Citizen Services are provided by appointment only. For genuine emergencies, as defined below, please contact the Consular Section via phone or e-mail. Click here to schedule an appointment for routine American Citizen Services.
The section is normally closed briefly for lunch break between 12:00-13:00 daily. For emergencies after hours and on holidays call the main Embassy number, +250 252-596-400.
What is an Emergency?
A genuine emergency involves special circumstances that require someone to travel to the United States without forewarning, such as cases resulting from the sudden death or serious injury of a family member in the U.S., or other family emergencies. Missed plane connections and other inconveniences that may result in extra expense to the traveler are not emergencies.
Except for urgent life and death situations, lost, stolen, or expired U.S. passports will not be replaced after hours. Most U.S. citizens will be advised to appear at the Embassy on the next working day to apply for a passport.
Other genuine emergencies requiring the immediate assistance of the Embassy Duty Officer include the arrest, serious illness or injury, or death of an U.S. citizen. Callers who do not have a genuine emergency will be asked to contact the Consular Section on the next working day. There is a fee for after-hours consular services.
U.S. Citizens who plan to travel to Rwanda are urged to enroll through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) and you can also obtain updated information on travel and security in Rwanda.