When you’re planning a trip to Benin, understanding the visa landscape will save you time at every step. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to apply for a tourist eVisa, which travelers can skip the visa altogether, what health checks to prepare for, and how to navigate on-arrival or border-entry rules.

Understanding Benin’s Visa Framework

Benin offers an electronic visa (eVisa) system for short-term stays. Rather than visiting an embassy, you complete an online form, upload your documents, pay the fee, and receive authorization by email.
– Who needs an eVisa?
Nearly all non-ECOWAS and non-African Union nationals require an eVisa in advance.
– Visa-free travelers
Citizens of ECOWAS member states and most African Union countries enter Benin without a visa for up to 90 days.
– On-arrival visas
A limited number of nationalities may obtain a visa on arrival at Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport. If you’re unsure, apply online to avoid refused entry.

eVisa Application Process

Follow these steps to secure your Benin tourist eVisa smoothly:

1. Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport (must remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and contain at least one blank page)
• Recent digital passport-type photograph
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (see next section)
• Address of accommodation in Benin (hotel, guesthouse, friend’s residence)

2. Complete the Online Form

Visit the official eVisa portal at eVisa Benin, fill in your personal and trip details, and upload scans of your documents.

3. Pay the Processing Fee

Fees vary by nationality and visa type. You’ll pay by credit or debit card during the application.

4. Wait for Approval

Processing typically takes 3–7 business days. Once approved, you’ll receive an eVisa PDF via email to print and present on arrival.

5. Validate Your eVisa

Print your eVisa, keep it with your passport, and present both to immigration officers upon entry—they will stamp your passport with the authorized stay dates.

Health & Travel Essentials

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Proof of yellow fever immunization is mandatory for all travelers; without a valid certificate, you risk being denied boarding or entry. Refer to the WHO’s yellow fever fact sheet for detailed requirements.

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and include at least one blank page for stamps. For up-to-date travel document guidelines, see the U.S. State Department’s Benin country information.

Exemptions, On-Arrival & Border Rules

• ECOWAS & African Union nationals enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
• On-arrival visas are available at Cadjehoun Airport for select nationalities, but availability may change without notice.
• No visas at land or sea borders—you must hold a valid visa or proof of eVisa approval before crossing by road or maritime route.
• Onward visas for Nigeria, Ghana, and other neighbors must be secured in advance; however, you can obtain a Togolese visa at the Togolese Embassy in Cotonou or at the Benin–Togo land border.

Smooth Entry & Onward Adventures

Once you’ve cleared the visa and health requirements, you’re free to explore Benin’s vibrant markets, historical sites in Ouidah, or the wildlife reserves in Pendjari. If you plan to stay longer or pursue special activities, contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Benin for information on visa extensions and permits.

Your Benin Experience Awaits

With your visa in place, you’re ready to discover Benin’s rich culture, from voodoo ceremonies to colonial architecture. Keep your documents and vaccination card close at hand, double-check any onward-travel visas, and embrace the adventure that awaits you in West Africa. Safe travels!