Rwanda and Brazil have signed a visa waiver deal, allowing citizens of both nations to travel freely between the two countries without the need for a visa, in a landmark agreement aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting tourism.
It comes at the back of Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincent Biruta’s, two-day official visit to Brazil from October 5 to 6.
Two important agreements—one concerning the transfer of sentenced persons and another Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at waiving visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports—were signed.
It indicated that this was the first high-level visit of its kind between the two countries.
According to a statement issued by the ministry on October 6, Rwandans holding diplomatic and official passports could soon travel to Brazil visa-free, following the agreement.
“We have also agreed that a Rwandan business mission will visit Brazil in the near future. This visit will serve as a significant step towards deepening economic relations and fostering greater understanding between our nations,” he told members of the press in Brasilia.
It stated that Biruta held productive meetings with senior officials from the Brazilian Federal Government, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira.
As part of the meetings, they signed two important agreements: one concerning the transfer of sentenced persons and another Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at waiving visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passports.
Vincent Biruta’s, together with the Brazilian Ambassador, highlighted the potential for economic growth and mutual benefits that would arise from this visa waiver. The move is seen as a significant step forward in strengthening bonds and facilitating easier access for travellers.
The deal is expected to boost bilateral relations, cultural exchange, trade, and tourism between the two nations.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincent Biruta, made a two-day official visit to Brazil, from October 5 to 6.
Meanwhile, concerning international affairs, Minister Biruta congratulated Brazil for its role as President of the United Nations Security Council for the month of October and exchanged views on pressing issues related to peace and security, particularly in the African Great Lakes region.
They recognised the need for concerted efforts to address security challenges and to work together for the promotion of stability and prosperity in the region.
They also discussed the critical issue of climate change and its far-reaching implications. Both nations share deep concerns about the impact of climate change on their respective regions and are committed to addressing this challenge through collaborative efforts.
Brazil is the largest country in South America and Latin America and is the world’s fifth-largest country by area and the seventh most populous. It has a gross domestic product of more than $2 trillion as of April 2023, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Rwanda and Brazil established diplomatic relations in 1981. In recent years, both countries have shown mutual interest in exploring ways to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation.