Can I use the Wise card in Rwanda in 2024?
If you’re planning a trip to Rwanda - or planning to move there to live, work or study - you’ve got an exciting time ahead. As the Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the official currency in Rwanda you’ll need to find convenient ways to spend in Rwandan Francs while you’re there.
This guide walks through how to use the Wise card in Rwanda for convenient and secure transactions, and offers some handy hints about making your money go further when you’re abroad.
Can I use the Wise card in Rwanda?
If you are a resident of Malaysia and have a Wise card - or if you’re thinking of getting one - you’re probably wondering: can I use my Wise card to pay for things in Rwanda?
The answer is yes, you can use the Wise card for everyday spending in Rwanda. You can use the card to pay for things in Rwandan Francs with competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. This guide walks through how you’ll be able to use your Wise card to help manage your travel spending.
How to order a Wise card
It’s easy to order your Wise card in Malaysia, and the whole process can be done from your phone or laptop. The most convenient option is to download the Wise app and get your Wise card that way. Here’s how:
- Register a Wise Account in the Wise app, using your email address, Apple, Facebook or Google ID
- Complete the verification step by snapping a photo of your ID and proof of address documents and uploading them
- Add some money to your account in your preferred currency - there are various ways to pay, which you’ll see in the app
- Navigate to the Cards tab and select the option to order your Wise card
- Follow the prompts to add or confirm your shipping address, and your card will arrive in the mail
Can I get the Wise card in Rwanda?
Unfortunately, the Wise card is not yet available for residents of Rwanda. You may find that BigPay is a better option for residents; check whether BigPay is available below.
See alternatives to WiseWhat happens if I move to Rwanda?
You can continue using your Wise card until it expires, but you will not be issued a new card as Wise does not offer the card in Rwanda. You may be able to continue using other services, offered by Wise - we would recommend checking with their Customer Support team for more details.
An alternative to Wise in Rwanda: BigPay
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currencies- Spend in Rwandan Francs when visiting Rwanda ✅
- Not available to residents of Rwanda ❌
- Helpful budgeting features + auto-categorisation of spending 🔒
You can spend in hundreds of countries with a BigPay card - there are also helpful saving and budgeting tools to save for the next trip abroad.
Will my ATM card work in Rwanda?
While your ATM card will work in Rwanda it’s useful to know that cash will still be accepted by some shops and restaurants.
Cash is always useful to have, not just for paying the bill, but for tipping and gratuity as well.
Carrying a low cost ATM card when you’re in Rwanda is still a smart idea, so you can take out cash when you do find an ATM. You may also be able to use your card in larger hotels or restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
However, keeping some cash on you at all times, as well as your card or cards is a smart plan, so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
How can I avoid ATM fees in Rwanda?
Don’t pay more than you need to when using an ATM. Here are some hints to avoid unexpected ATM fees in Rwanda:
Get a low cost ATM card which offers some free or cheap international withdrawals
Always pay in the local currency when you withdraw - this avoids additional charges and poor exchange rates offered by an ATM
Check if there’s a fixed cost per transaction for your ATM card. This might mean that making fewer, larger withdrawals is cheaper
Watch the ATM screen for warnings of extra fees the ATM operator may add - if there are going to be extra charges you may want to find an alternative terminal
Tips for saving on your travel budget for Rwanda
Make the most of your money so you can do more on your trip to Rwanda. Here are some travel budget tips:
Pay for your luggage when you book your flight - this is cheaper than at the airport
Don’t exchange currency at the airport or your hotel, as this is often the most expensive place
Always pay in the local currency
Keep a few different payment methods on you at any time, just in case you need a backup plan
Get a travel card which has good exchange rates and low or no cost ATM withdrawals overseas
What is the best currency to take to Rwanda?
The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the official currency in Rwanda.
You can exchange your MYR before you leave Malaysia if you’d like - but bear in mind that you won’t be able to spend MYR in Rwanda. If you arrive with cash in your pocket you’ll need to exchange it locally, which may come with unexpected costs, and take time out of your trip unnecessarily.
A better plan for lots of people is to get a travel card for spending abroad, with low costs and secure transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Wise card will be OK for your trip to Rwanda. Use your Wise card in Rwanda to get low cost currency conversion and cash withdrawals, and to keep your budget down overall.
Unfortunately, the Wise card is not yet available for residents of Rwanda, so if you're planning on relocating you may need to consider alternatives.
Using the Wise card when you’re spending overseas can mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs. Explore your card’s features and fees carefully to make sure you can get the most of it when travelling abroad.
The delivery time for a travel card in Malaysia can vary a lot depending on the provider you pick. Get ready in advance so you’ve got your card in good time before your trip to Rwanda.
We retrieved Wise's and BigPay's card coverage from the following sources:
- Where can I use my Wise card? - Wise (checked 20/02/2024)
- Can I get the Wise card in my country? - Wise (checked 20/02/2024)
- Things you should know about using your BigPay card overseas. - BigPay (checked 12/08/2024)