Embassy Alert: Kigali (Rwanda), Digital ID Registration Required for Foreign Residents (Deadline February 15, 2026)
Embassy Alert: Kigali (Rwanda), Digital ID Registration Required for Foreign Residents (Deadline February 15, 2026)
Location: Kigali/Rwanda
The U.S. Embassy has become aware that Rwanda’s Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration is conducting mandatory registration for electronic identity cards for all non-Rwandan nationals living in Kigali, including U.S. citizens. Registration ends February 15, 2026.
Who Must Register:
- Foreign residents
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Migrants and stateless persons
Registration Locations:
For foreign residents:
- Foreign residents can register at eight sector offices across Kigali: Rwezamenyo, Gitega, Nyakabanda, Kimihurura, Kacyiru, Kicukiro, Niboye, and Kagarama. (Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Foreign residents can also register at Immigration headquarters in Kacyiru (Monday-Friday, standard working hours)
For refugees/asylum seekers:
- Community Center in Gikondo
Required Documents for Foreign Residents:
- Valid passport
- Current Rwandan residence permit
- Foreigner’s identity card (if previously issued)
Process: Registration includes identity verification, biometric capture, and photographs.
Action Required: U.S. citizens residing in Kigali should register before the February 15 deadline. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
For questions about registration requirements, contact the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration at +250-788-152-222 or info@migration.gov.rw.
Assistance:
- S. Embassy Kigali, Rwanda
30 KG 7 Avenue (Kacyiru)
+250-252-596-400
ACSKigali@state.gov
https://rw.usembassy.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Rwanda Country Information
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