Regarding the validity of Rwandan passports and how to apply for new passports, the following has been outlined by the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration:

As announced on 28 June 2019 during the launch of the issuance and usage of the new Rwanda East Africa (EAC) e-Passport, the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE) has informed the public that due to travel restrictions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, whereby Rwandan community abroad are not able to travel to Rwandan Diplomatic Missions to acquire e-passports, the phase out of the old passports has been extended by one (1) year. Therefore, old passports will remain valid until 27th June 2022.  

The Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration informs Rwandans that Rwanda East Africa (EAC) e-Passport applications are submitted through the Irembo platform. You may apply for a Rwanda East Africa (EAC) e-Passport at the earliest possible opportunity while your old passport is still valid.

For more information or clarification, please call +250 722 180 218 or +250 722 159 372 or +250 722 174 611. You may also contact the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration via social media platforms on Twitter @Rwandamigration and Facebook RwandaImmigration