Ivory Coast Visa Types, Requirements, and Application
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to apply for an Ivory Coast visa! Whether you are planning a trip for tourism, business or anything else, understanding the visa process is essential for a successful trip. In this article, we will give you all the information about the different visa types, the requirements you must meet and the step-by-step application process.
Who needs a visa to enter Ivory Coast?
- Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Ivory Coast:
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports issued by the following countries will be exempted from visa entry to the Ivory Coast:
Ivory Coast visa types
Ivory Coast offers various visa options to cater to different travel purposes. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or simply transiting through the country, understanding the visa types will help you make the right choice for your specific needs.
Tourist visa
The tourist visa is designed for individuals who wish to explore the beautiful attractions and cultural heritage of Ivory Coast. This visa allows visitors to engage in tourism-related activities such as sightseeing, visiting historical sites, and experiencing the local culture. The tourist visa is typically issued for a specific duration, which can vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin and the purpose of their visit.
Business visa
This visa allows individuals to attend meetings, conferences, and other business activities in the country. It is essential to have an invitation letter from a business contact or organization in Ivory Coast to support your application for a business visa. The duration of the business visa is typically determined based on the nature and duration of the business activities.
Transit visa
For travelers who are only transiting through Ivory Coast en route to their final destination, a transit visa is required. This visa allows individuals to stay in Ivory Coast for a limited period while they wait for their connecting flight or mode of transportation. It is important to note that the duration of a transit visa is usually short and only allows for transit-related activities.
Ivory Coast visa requirements
When applying for visa, you will need to provide a number of documents to support your application. These documents include:
- Your current passport, which has at least six months left on it.
- A completed visa application form, filled out accurately and legibly.
- Two current passport-sized photos that adhere to the guidelines.
- An invitation letter if you are visiting Ivory Coast for business purposes.
- Evidence of lodging arrangements, like hotel bookings or a host’s invitation letter.
- A detailed travel itinerary, including information about your planned activities and duration of stay.
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Ivory Coast, such as bank statements or traveler’s cheques.
- Medical insurance coverage for the duration of your trip to Ivory Coast.
How to apply for Ivory Coast visa?
There are two main types of visas: e-Visa and traditional visa. An e-visa is a simple, quick procedure to apply for a visa and allows for a maximum stay of 90 days. Traditional visas are required for other points of entry or longer stays.
e-Visa
To apply for the e-Visa, you need to follow these steps:
- Step#1. Check the official website page of the Ivory Coast government to find the application form for the e-Visa.
- Step#2. Fill out the visa application form online.
- Step#3. Scan and attach other requested documents to your visa application form, such as your passport bio page, a reserved plane ticket, a letter of invitation or accommodation proof, etc.
- Step#4. Finish the application fee payment.
- Step#5. Await receiving an email or SMS containing the outcome of your visa application.
- Step#6. If you receive a positive answer, you will be issued a digital barcode.
- Step#7. Print your “Approved pre-enrollment” document and submit it at the airport visa area before entering the country. Your visa will be provided to you there.
Traditional visa
To apply for Ivory Coast visa through the traditional method, follow these steps:
- Step#1. Find the nearest Ivory Coast embassy or consulate.
- Step#2. Contact them to learn about visa requirements, fees, and appointment availability.
- Step#3. Attend your scheduled appointment with the required documents.
- Step#4. Wait for your visa application to be processed.
- Step#5. Retrieve your passport with the visa stamp from the embassy or consulate.
Ivory Coast visa fees
The cost of a visa depends on the type of visa you need and the method of application:
- The cost of the e-Visa is 109 Euro per passenger, which includes the consular fees of 73 Euro and the service fees of 36 Euro. You can apply for the e-Visa online and pay the fee by credit card. You will receive a digital barcode and an approved pre-enrollment document by email or SMS, which you need to print and submit at the airport visa area before entering the country.
- The cost of a traditional visa will range 50–77 Euro depending on the length and purpose of your stay. You can check the official website of the Ivory Coast embassy or consulate in your country for more details.