For a growing number of foreigners, Rwanda is becoming more than a destination to visit, with security, governance and the welcome they receive from Rwandans influencing decisions to settle in the country.
Among them is American national Alexis Valery, who moved to Rwanda with his wife and son after researching several countries as potential places to live.
Alexis first visited Rwanda in 2021 and said his experience during the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened his interest in settling in the country. He was particularly impressed by Rwanda’s response to the pandemic and what he described as the welcoming attitude towards foreigners.
By October 1, 2026, Alexis and his family will have lived in Rwanda for four years.
“Since we arrived in Rwanda, we have never regretted our decision or considered going back,” he told Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA).
Finnish national Thomas Lamba has an even longer connection with Rwanda. He has lived in the country for 20 years and says his first impressions began changing during his journey from the airport to Serena Hotel.
Now retired, Lamba has built his life and family in Rwanda and says he is happy with the decision to stay.
The experiences of the two foreigners come as Rwanda positions itself as a destination for investment, tourism, work and longer-term settlement.
In 2023, President Paul Kagame announced that Rwanda had removed visa requirements for African citizens, a move aimed at facilitating movement, trade and tourism across the continent.
According to Rwanda’s immigration authorities, citizens of African Union member states can enter the country without a visa and stay for up to 30 days.
United Nations data indicates that Rwanda had about 513,300 international migrants in 2024, accounting for 3.6% of the country’s population.
Tourism has also continued to grow. The Rwanda Development Board’s 2025 annual report, released in April 2026, recorded 1.49 million visitor arrivals, up 9% from 1.36 million in 2024.
While visitor numbers do not necessarily represent people settling permanently, the figures point to Rwanda’s growing international appeal.
For foreigners such as Alexis and Lamba, however, the attraction extends beyond short visits.
Their experiences highlight how Rwanda’s security, social environment and ease of access are contributing to its appeal as a place where some foreigners choose not only to visit, but also to work, raise families and build long-term lives.
