Reading this guide, you’ll discover every visa option for the Comoros Islands, step-by-step application instructions, fees, processing times and validity periods. You’ll also get fresh insights on policy history, regional comparisons, eco-tourism impacts and up-to-the-minute arrival statistics—all backed by reputable sources.

Types of Comoros Visas

When planning a leisure trip to Comoros, you can choose between two main entry permits:

Visa on Arrival (Tourist Visa)

Most nationalities may obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (Moroni) or at any seaport by filling out a simple form, presenting your passport, and paying the fee in euros or dollars. Source: Direction Générale de la Migration et du Contrôle de l’Immigration (DGMICE).

E-Visa

The Comoros e-Visa system lets you apply online up to six months before travel. After submitting your passport scan, photo and payment, you receive an approval email—print it and present it on arrival.

Visa Requirements & Application Process

Whether you opt for on-arrival or e-Visa, you’ll need the following:

• A passport valid for ≥ 6 months
• One recent passport-style photo
• Completed application form (paper or online)
• Proof of return/onward ticket
• Payment of the visa fee

Most travelers also need to show yellow fever vaccination if arriving from or transiting through endemic countries, in line with the CDC’s yellow fever vaccination requirements.

Online e-Visa Application

1. Visit the Comoros e-Visa portal
2. Create an account and complete the form
3. Upload passport scan and photo
4. Pay with Visa/Mastercard
5. Download and print your approval letter

Consular Application

If you prefer, you can apply in person at the Comoros Consulate in France or through an authorized visa agent. Bring originals of all documents listed above.

Fees, Processing Times & Validity

Comoros visa fees vary by processing speed and method:

1. On-arrival standard: € 30 per person
2. E-Visa standard (72 hrs): € 35
3. E-Visa rush (24 hrs): € 55
4. Super rush (3–6 hrs): € 85

Processing generally takes 3–5 business days online, but airport-on-arrival can be immediate or up to two hours during peak season.

Your visa allows a single stay of up to 45 days. Extensions are possible (see next section).

Extending Your Stay or Changing Your Visa

If you decide to linger among Comoros’ volcanic peaks and vanilla groves, you can apply for a 30-day extension at DGMICE in Moroni.

To switch from a tourist permit to a long-term or business visa, submit a new application and supporting documents (invitation letter, business license) at least two weeks before expiry.

Beyond the Basics: Special Considerations

Historical Policy Changes & Tourism Impact

In 2010 Comoros briefly abolished visa requirements for all visitors, aiming to boost tourism. Although the waiver ended in 2011, the government streamlined entry processes and launched the e-Visa in 2018—moves that helped international arrivals grow, according to the Visa policy of the Comoros on Wikipedia.

Health & Security Screenings

Beyond yellow fever proof, expect routine temperature checks and bag scans upon arrival. Travelers report these take 10–20 minutes if lines are short.

Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel

Comoros promotes low-impact stays on its marine parks and nature reserves. A smoother visa process encourages eco-tour operators to bring small groups, supporting local sustainability projects as noted in the UNESCO Marine World Heritage reviews.

Regional Comparisons: Comoros vs. Neighbors

• Seychelles: Visa-free for all nationalities for 3 months via the Seychelles Immigration and Civil Status Authority
• Mauritius: Visa on arrival for most passports, free for 60 days through the Passport and Immigration Office of Mauritius
• Madagascar: e-Visa and visa-on-arrival available, fees from USD 37 via the Madagascar eVisa platform

Special Arrangements & Exemptions

Diplomatic and service-passport holders from Turkey and the United Arab Emirates travel visa-free for up to 30 days.

Tourist Arrivals & Traveler Voices

• According to the World Bank data on Comoros tourist arrivals, Comoros recorded 45 564 international arrivals in 2019.
• A visitor on Reddit noted, “My visa-on-arrival took longer than expected—about two hours during the afternoon rush.”
• Diaspora visits from France account for nearly 20 % of all tourist entries, highlighting family-reunion travel, as shown in the OECD Migration Data.

Anchoring Your Adventure

With this guide, you have everything you need to secure the right Comoros visa—smoothly and confidently. Now that the paperwork is sorted, focus on planning your lagoon swims, vanilla farm tours and crater hikes. Safe travels to the “Perfume Isles”!