This guide provides critical information for Rwandan citizens planning to travel to India, focusing on visa procedures and the essential health requirement of a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
Part 1: Indian eVisa for Rwandan Citizens
Rwandan citizens are eligible to apply for an Indian Visa for Rwanda Citizens online for tourism, business, or medical visits.
Eligibility & Application Summary
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Eligibility: Rwandan citizens with an ordinary passport valid for at least 6 months.
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Application: Fully online process via the official Indian government portal.
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Processing: Typically 1-4 business days.
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Entry: Valid at designated airports and seaports only; not for land borders.
Available Indian eVisa Types for Rwandans
| Visa Type | Validity & Entry | Maximum Stay | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist Visa | 30 days (Double Entry) | 30 days | Tourism, sightseeing, visiting. |
| e-Tourist Visa | 1 year (Multiple Entry) | 90 days per visit | Frequent tourism. |
| e-Tourist Visa | 5 years (Multiple Entry) | 90 days per visit | Long-term, repeat visits. |
| e-Business Visa | 1 year (Multiple Entry) | 180 days per visit | Business meetings, trade. |
| e-Medical Visa | 60 days (Triple Entry) | 60 days | Medical treatment. |
Part 2: Mandatory Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements
A crucial step for many travelers, including those from Rwanda, is complying with India’s INDIAN VISA YELLOW FEVER REQUIREMENTS. This is a mandatory health regulation, not an optional visa formality.
Who Needs the Certificate?
You MUST present an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), often called the “Yellow Card,” if:
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You are arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission (including many countries in Africa and South America).
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You have transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in a country with Yellow Fever risk.
As Rwanda is classified as a country with Yellow Fever transmission risk, Rwandan citizens are required to present this certificate upon arrival in India.
Key Rules for the Yellow Fever Certificate
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Validity: The vaccination becomes valid 10 days after administration and lasts for a lifetime (as per WHO standards, replacing the old 10-year rule).
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Certificate Details: The ICVP must be fully completed, signed, and stamped by an approved vaccination center. It must match the traveler’s passport details exactly.
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Consequence of Non-Compliance: Failure to present a valid certificate when required will result in immediate quarantine for up to 6 days or refusal of entry, as per Indian health regulations.
How to Get Vaccinated
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Schedule an appointment at a government-authorized Yellow Fever Vaccination Center.
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Receive the vaccine and the official ICVP (Yellow Card).
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Ensure the card is completely filled out and stamped. Keep this original document with your passport at all times during travel.
Integrated Travel Checklist for Rwandan Citizens
Before departing for India, ensure you have the following documents ready for inspection:
| Document | Purpose & Key Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. |
| Printed Indian eVisa (ETA) | The approval you received via email. Must be printed. |
| Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate | Original, valid ICVP (“Yellow Card”) from an approved center. |
| Onward/Return Ticket | Proof of planned departure from India. |
| Accommodation Details | Hotel bookings or address of stay. |
Critical Final Tips
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Apply Early: Submit your eVisa application at least one week before travel to account for processing and any unforeseen delays.
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Health First: Schedule your Yellow Fever vaccination well in advance to ensure the 10-day validity period passes before your flight.
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Document Pack: Prepare a dedicated travel folder containing printed copies of your eVisa, Yellow Card, flight itineraries, and hotel confirmations. Carry originals of your passport and vaccination certificate.
By carefully following both the visa and health requirements outlined in this guide, Rwandan citizens can ensure a smooth and compliant journey to India, allowing you to focus on the rich experiences that await.