In a significant step towards promoting tourism and strengthening bilateral relations, Rwanda and the Bahamas have mutually agreed to eliminate visa requirements for their citizens. This means passport holders from both nations can now travel freely between the two countries without the need for a visa.
The agreement, formalized on September 23, 2024, during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, represents a culmination of ongoing discussions between the two countries. The decision builds upon President Paul Kagame’s visit to the Bahamas in July 2023, where he attended the 50th independence celebration and met with Prime Minister Philip Davis to discuss strengthening bilateral ties.
Rwanda’s move to eliminate visa requirements for citizens of the Bahamas aligns with its broader vision of promoting visa-free travel within Africa. In November 2023, Rwanda implemented a landmark policy allowing all African nationals to enter the country without a visa, joining Gambia, Benin, and Seychelles in embracing visa-free travel across the continent. This policy aims to encourage the free movement of people and trade within Africa.
The agreement with the Bahamas is not Rwanda’s first step towards simplifying travel. In 2023, Rwanda signed a visa exemption agreement with Indonesia, allowing diplomatic and service passport holders from both countries to travel visa-free. This agreement was established during a bilateral meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Biruta, and Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.
As of September 2024, Rwandan citizens can travel visa-free to 32 countries, require an eVisa for nine, and need a visa for 22 others. Rwanda’s passport currently ranks 156th globally on the VisaGuide Passport Index.
Meanwhile, Bahamian citizens enjoy greater global mobility with visa-free access to 127 countries, eVisa requirements for 13, and visa requirements for 22. The Bahamian passport ranks higher, offering holders access to a wider range of visa-free destinations.
This latest agreement between Rwanda and the Bahamas signifies a positive step towards promoting tourism and fostering closer diplomatic relations. It also underscores both countries’ commitment to ease travel restrictions and encourage the free movement of people.
