Rwanda Rises Among World’s Most Accessible Destinations as Tourism Revenue Hits Record High
Rwanda has emerged as one of the world’s most accessible destinations for international travellers, ranking 20th among 199 countries for the ease with which foreign visitors can enter, as growing tourist arrivals continue to translate into stronger revenues and economic opportunities.
The ranking, highlighted by the annual Henley Passport Index, comes as Rwanda records continued growth in its tourism industry. Data from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) shows that the country generated $685 million in tourism revenues in 2025, up from $647 million in 2024, representing a 6 percent increase.
The number of visitors also increased significantly during the same period, rising by 9 percent to 1.49 million tourists in 2025.
The figures underline the growing contribution of tourism to Rwanda’s economy, while the country’s relatively open entry policy is strengthening its position as an increasingly attractive destination for travellers from around the world.
According to the Henley Passport Index, Rwanda ranks 20th among 199 countries in terms of facilitating entry for foreign visitors. However, the Rwandan passport itself ranks 128th globally in terms of travel access.
The report places Rwanda at 120th among 159 World Trade Organization (WTO) member countries in terms of facilitating international entry. Within the Commonwealth, Rwanda ranks 45th among 56 countries, while it is ranked 75th among 132 G77 countries.
Rwanda ranks 48th among 60 countries where English is an official language, while it stands ninth among 29 French-speaking countries. Among the four countries where Swahili is an official language, Rwanda ranks third.
The country also ranks 36th among 57 presidential republics, according to the same classification.
Rwanda’s visa policy has contributed to this relatively high level of accessibility. The report shows that passport holders from 127 countries can enter Rwanda either without a visa, through electronic travel authorisation or by obtaining a visa on arrival.
The same countries do not necessarily offer equivalent access to Rwandan passport holders, with nationals travelling from Rwanda often required to obtain visas before entering several major destinations.
These include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the United Arab Emirates, Australia and Japan.
One notable exception is Tuvalu. While Tuvaluan passport holders are required to obtain a visa to enter Rwanda, Rwandan citizens can travel to Tuvalu without securing a conventional visa in advance, using an electronic travel authorisation or obtaining permission on arrival.
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