This article helps to answer some of the frequently asked questions related with consular services for Rwandans living abroad. 

1. What is Irembo?

Irembo is Rwanda’s official digital platform for accessing government services online. Through Irembo, Rwandans abroad can apply for documents such as national IDs, passports, legalizations and more without traveling to Rwanda.

2. How does the Embassy support Irembo services?

The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Poland serves as the first point of contact for Rwandans abroad who require consular services and any necessary support along the process. 

3. Which services can diaspora users request through Irembo with Embassy support?

Rwandans abroad can access nearly all government services available on Irembo, just as citizens in Rwanda do. These services range from passport applications, legalization of documents, Emergency Travel Documents, and National ID services, to land-related requests and other administrative needs. With the Embassy’s assistance, diaspora users are guided through the process to ensure that their applications are properly submitted and processed.

4. How do I legalize documents through Irembo with Embassy support?

Applicants should apply the service through Irembo under Foreign Affairs & Consular Services → Legalization of Public Documents/Apostille, upload the verified documents, and pay the applicable fees. Applications can be tracked online, and the Embassy remains available for guidance as needed. 

Afterwards the applicants are requested to visit the Embassy after receiving a message from the Embassy consular office requesting to come for signing. 

5. How can I apply for or replace a National ID from abroad?

Applicants should apply through Irembo under Identification → National ID Application/Replacement → ID replacement for Diaspora, upload required documents, and pay the fees (ID replacement: 1,500 RWF; new ID: 500 RWF). The process may be tracked online, with Embassy support available if challenges arise.

Specifically, for ID applicant, after receiving the request, Embassy consular service office, shall send a message calling the applicant to come at the Embassy for data capture. 

6. How do I request an Emergency Travel Document (ETD)?

Applicant should apply through Irembo under Immigration & Emigration → Foreign Travel Document. Then submit the required personal information and supporting documents (e.g., a police report for a lost passport), and complete the application. 

7. How do I apply for a passport as a member of the diaspora?

Applicants should apply directly through Irembo under Immigration & Emigration → Passport Application. You must select e-passport and select whether it is a replacement or first application. Required documents must be uploaded online. Once the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration verifies the application, the applicant will be invited to the Embassy for biometrics and photo capture. After processing, the passport will be sent by courier to the Embassy, where applicants should collect it. 

8. Do I need an Irembo account?

Yes. As a member of the diaspora, you must have an Irembo account in order to access any services. To create an account, you first need a Consular Card. This can be obtained by visiting the Rwandan Community Abroad website creating an account, and applying for the card. The process is quick and usually completed within a day. Once issued, the Consular Card provides you with a unique number, which you will use when creating your Irembo account. With this account, you may then enjoy all Irembo services as a diaspora user.

9. How can I get help from the Embassy or Irembo?

Embassy of Rwanda in Poland: 

Email: warsawconsularservice@minaffet.gov.rw

Phone: +48 22 102 65 71/+48 883 006 929

Irembo Support:

Email: support@irembo.com

Call Center: +250 788 124 700 / 9099

WhatsApp: +250 792 222 220