How long does it take to find a long-term rental in Kigali?

Most expats book a 2–4 week short-stay in Kimihurura or Kacyiru while viewing 4–5 long-term places. Allow 2–3 weeks from arrival to signing a lease.

Which bank should expats use in Kigali?

Equity, I&M, and Bank of Kigali (BK) are the most expat-friendly. Bring your passport, work permit, and either a recent utility bill or your rental contract to open an account.

Can I drive in Rwanda with my foreign license?

Yes, for the first 6 months. After that, you must convert to a Rwandan license at the Rwanda National Police HQ in Kacyiru.

Where do expats go for healthcare in Kigali?

King Faisal Hospital and Polyclinic du Plateau are the two most commonly recommended options. Sort out RAMA or private insurance in your first month.

What's the best mobile network and internet in Kigali?

MTN and Airtel both have good coverage with SIMs available at the airport (bring your passport). For home internet, Liquid Telecom and MTN Fiber are the most reliable, typically installed within a week.

Moving to Kigali: A Practical Checklist for New Arrivals

Visa, neighborhood, internet, banking, SIM, healthcare — the practical things to handle in your first month in Kigali.

Moving to Kigali for a job, an NGO posting, or a fresh start? Here's the practical first-month checklist most expats wish they'd had.

Week 1 — the essentials

SIM card: MTN or Airtel kiosks at the airport. Bring your passport.
Cash: RWF only on the street. Withdraw at I&M, Equity, or KCB ATMs.
Temporary housing: book a short-stay in Kimihurura or Kacyiru for 2–4 weeks while you look for a long-term place.

Weeks 2–3 — find a long-term rental

Don't sign anything sight-unseen. Visit at least 4–5 places before deciding. Aim for the neighborhood near where you'll work — Kigali traffic at rush hour is real. See our honest neighborhood guide and verified rentals on Umutuzo.

Banking

Most expats open accounts at Equity, I&M, or BK. Bring passport + work permit + a recent utility bill or rental contract.

Healthcare

King Faisal Hospital and the Polyclinic du Plateau are the standard expat-recommended options. Get RAMA or private insurance early.

Internet

Liquid Telecom and MTN Fiber are the most reliable. Expect installation within a week.

Driving

You can drive on your home license for the first 6 months. After that, convert to a Rwandan license at the Police HQ.

Once you've got a temporary base, start the long-term apartment hunt.