Travel between Rwanda and Dominica has just become significantly easier thanks to a new visa-free agreement signed by both countries. The agreement, which is expected to boost tourism, business, and cultural exchanges, marks a significant step in strengthening the bond between the two Commonwealth nations.
Under this agreement, Rwandans can now visit Dominica without needing a visa, and Dominicans can do the same when traveling to Rwanda. The agreement was officially signed by Dominica’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Dr. Vince Henderson, and Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The new visa-free arrangement builds upon the already burgeoning relationship between Rwanda and Dominica, which formally established diplomatic relations in September 2022 at the UN General Assembly. As fellow Commonwealth members, the two nations share a commitment to closer cooperation, and this agreement perfectly aligns with their shared goals.
This agreement is a game-changer for travelers. As of September 2024, Rwandans can now enjoy visa-free travel to 32 countries, while Dominicans can visit 113 nations without a visa. This opens up new horizons for both countries and makes international travel significantly easier.
The timing of this agreement is particularly auspicious, as both Rwanda and Dominica are experiencing significant tourism growth. Dominica saw a strong recovery in 2023, with international tourists bringing in 193.1 million East Caribbean dollars—an impressive 18% jump from the previous year. Rwanda, meanwhile, witnessed a remarkable surge in tourism in 2023, welcoming 1.4 million visitors, nearly triple the 521,000 tourists it received in 2021.
This visa-free agreement is a clear win for both nations, streamlining travel and paving the way for increased tourism, business, and cultural exchange. It serves as a testament to their commitment to strengthening their partnership for a brighter future.
