Benin, Gambia, Rwanda and Seychelles Tops Gates in Africa’s Expanding Visa-Free Zone
By joining the visa-free club, Rwanda aligns with Benin, The Gambia and Seychelles leading the charge in bridging borders through free movement of people. The open-border policy also contributes to the Africa Visa Openness Index (AVOI) reaching record levels in 2023.
As outlined in the latest AVOI report, the continent’s overall visa openness score has rebounded to pre-pandemic heights after COVID-related mobility constraints kept borders sealed temporarily. Among the positive shifts, 15 African countries have increased visa openness over the past year while just 4 reversed course. Rwanda helped nudge the AVOI higher by eliminating visa red tape and fees that previously encumbered African citizens from easily entering the country. The move expands upon Rwanda’s prior visa-on-arrival access to further align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision promoting visa-free regional travel to spur trade, education exchanges and socio-economic growth.
The rising AVOI index suggests the winds of change are gusting strongly in the direction of enhanced mobility as more African Union members gradually ease cross-border policies year to year.However, stark visa openness disparities still exist within Africa. For example, Seychelles and Benin each allow visa-free access for all African visitors while Eritrea permits entry from just 22 other African countries without pre-obtained visas.
As Rwanda swings open its gates, travelers can expect warmer receptions matched by the country’s famously hospitable culture. So get ready, No visa paperwork required!
