When you finish reading this guide, you’ll know exactly which Cameroon visa suits your trip, what documents to prepare, how the recently launched eVisa works, and how to sidestep common pitfalls. You’ll also find insights on visa extensions, exemptions for certain nationalities, health requirements at entry, statistics on visitor trends, and what to watch for in security advisories.

Types of Cameroon Visas for Visitors

Cameroon offers several visa categories for short stays. You choose between applying online or going through an embassy or a visa application centre.

• eVisa
• Launched in mid-2023 to simplify applications
• Valid for single or multiple entries
• Stay up to 30 days per entry
• Regular (Sticker) Visa
• Obtained from embassies or consulates
• Multiple durations: 15, 30 or 90 days
• Visa-on-Arrival
• Available only for holders of official letters from the Ministry of External Relations
• Rarely used by leisure travelers

Not every passport qualifies for visa-on-arrival. If you don’t have an official invitation, apply online or at your nearest diplomatic mission.

Visa Exemptions and Special Agreements

Certain countries enjoy visa-free access or simplified procedures under bilateral accords. Before you apply, check whether you’re on one of these lists:

• Visa-Free (Up to 90 days)
• Republic of Congo, Gabon, Mali, Senegal, Tchad, among others (Visa policy of Cameroon)
• Special Entry without eVisa
• Holders of diplomatic or service passports from Brazil, China, Russia
• Transit Exemptions
• Passengers remaining airside en route elsewhere for less than 24 hours

If your country isn’t exempt, the eVisa will be your fastest route.

Required Documents and Health Regulations

A smooth application hinges on gathering every paper in advance. At entry, border officers will check both visa and health credentials.

• Passport valid for ≥ 6 months
• Recent passport-style photo (2”×2”)
• Completed visa application form
• Round-trip flight itinerary
• Proof of lodging (hotel reservation or invitation letter)
• Bank statement showing sufficient funds
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory, see CDC guidance on Cameroon travel)

How to Apply: Online, In Person and via Agencies

You’ll pick one of three pathways depending on where you live and how fast you need clearance.

1. Online eVisa
2. Visit the official portal at eVisa-Minrex.cm
3. Upload documents, pay by credit card
4. Receive eVisa via email in 5–7 business days
5. Embassy/Consulate
6. Download the form from your local mission’s website
7. Submit by appointment or mail with fees and papers
8. Processing can take 10–15 days
9. VFS Global or Visa-Service Companies
10. Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VFS Global – USA)
11. Pay centre service fee in addition to visa fee
12. Track your file online

Local Cameroonian tour operators often assist with invitation letters and streamline steps 2 or 3 if you book a package.

Fees, Processing Times and Validity

Processing speed and cost vary by method and nationality. Here’s a quick overview for tourist visas:

• eVisa Single Entry (30 days)
• Fee: USD 75
• Turnaround: ~5 business days
• Regular Sticker Visa
• Fee: USD 60–100 depending on your location
• Turnaround: 10–15 business days
• Multiple-Entry Visa
• Fee: USD 150
• Validity: up to 90 days

Seasonal Peaks and Delays

During major events—like the annual Douala Jazz Festival—embassies report up to 30% longer processing times. Submit early if you plan to arrive between May and July.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Many applications stall or get refused for similar reasons. Watch out for:

• Incomplete application forms
• Mismatched names or passport numbers
• Missing yellow fever certificate
• Unauthenticated invitation letters
• Bank statements older than 30 days

Tip: Ask your bank for a stamped statement and double-check every document before uploading or mailing.

Extending Your Tourist Visa

If you fall in love with Yaoundé and wish to stay longer, you can request an extension.

• Where to Apply: Directorate of Migration and Border Control (Yaoundé office)
• Required Justification:
• Medical treatment
• Unforeseen travel disruptions
• Business meeting delays
• Documents:
• Copy of your passport and current visa
• Two passport photos
• Letter explaining reasons
• Fee: approximately XAF 35,000 (~USD 60)
• Processing: 7–10 days

Authorities grant extensions sparingly. Submit as soon as you realize you’ll exceed your original stay.

Visitor Trends and Statistics

International arrivals to Cameroon have grown steadily over the decade. In 2019, the country welcomed 363,000 visitors, up from 325,000 in 2015 (World Bank data on international arrivals). Tourism officials aim to reach 500,000 arrivals by 2025.

Security Advisories and Travel Considerations

Foreign ministries issue standard guidance for Cameroon trips.

• Northern Regions: Varying risk due to cross-border crime
• Southwest & Northwest: Occasional civil unrest
• General Advice:
• Register with your embassy
• Avoid large gatherings
• Keep digital and paper copies of key documents

Check the U.S. State Department travel advisory for Cameroon before departure.

Ready for Takeoff?

With visa type, application route, document checklist and insider tips in hand, you’re set to secure your Cameroon tourist visa without stress. Gather your paperwork early, pick the application path that suits your timeline, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through this vibrant Central African nation.