When you finish reading this, you’ll know exactly which visa pathway to choose, how to prepare your documents, and what on-the-ground steps ensure you stay legally in Mali. You’ll also learn insider tips—like extension procedures and health requirements—that you won’t find in most guides.
Understanding Your Mali Visa Options
Mali offers several entry routes, each with its own eligibility:
- eVisa: Mali launched its eVisa platform in August 2015, allowing applicants from most nationalities to apply online via the Africanews-reported system. Read about Mali’s eVisa launch
- Visa on Arrival: Certain travelers from select countries have reported obtaining a visa on arrival at Bamako International Airport; however, fees and procedures can change without notice. See the Mali embassy in Washington’s overview of visa requirements. Mali embassy visa requirements
- ECOWAS Exemption: Under the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Citizens of West African Economic Community States enjoy visa-free entry up to 90 days. ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol
eVisa vs. Consular Process
Before August 2015, you had to visit a Malian embassy in person to submit your tourist visa application via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation’s consular section. Ministry of Foreign Affairs historical visa process
Now the eVisa platform handles most tourist applications, speeding up approvals and reducing embassy visits.
How to Apply for the Mali eVisa
Follow these steps to secure your tourist eVisa:
- Gather documents: passport scan, digital photo, travel itinerary
- Complete the online form via an authorized provider
- Pay processing fees—standard (7 business days), rush (3 days), super rush (12 hours)
- Download and print your eVisa approval letter
- Present at Bamako airport immigration
The processing fees range from USD 75 to USD 185, depending on the service level and speed. iVisa’s Mali Tourist eVisa fees
Visa on Arrival and ECOWAS Exemptions
If you hold a passport from an ECOWAS member state, you won’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Citizens outside ECOWAS sometimes report pay-as-you-enter visa issuance at Bamako International Airport, though fees and procedures vary by nationality and airport policy.
Required Documents and Health Certificates
Before departure, make sure you have:
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Two blank visa pages
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)
- Proof of accommodation
- Return or onward ticket
Essential health detail:
- Yellow fever risk is high year-round in Mali; you may be denied entry without a valid vaccination certificate. WHO Yellow Fever fact sheet
Security Alerts and Regional Advisories
You should check current advisories before booking:
“Terrorists continue plotting attacks in Mali, including in Bamako.” – U.S. Department of State
Mali Travel Advisory
Northern and central regions remain volatile; many embassies restrict travel there. Always register with your embassy on arrival.
Extending Your Mali Tourist Visa
If you want more than the initial 90 days:
- Visit the Direction Générale de la Police Nationale in Bamako
- Submit a completed extension form, passport copy, and proof of funds
- Pay the extension fee (variable)
- Await approval—extensions are discretionary and processing can vary significantly.
Traveler discussions on Mali visa extension
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Many visa applications are refused for simple reasons. Make sure you:
- Include proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
- Show confirmed accommodation bookings
- Submit a fully completed application form
- Provide truthful travel plans
Top refusal triggers:
- Missing photo specifications
- Incomplete forms
- No return ticket
- Insufficient yellow fever documentation
Ready for Bamako?
You now have the roadmap—from choosing between eVisa and exemption, to meeting strict health rules, to handling extensions. With your documents in order and up-to-date advisories checked, you’re set for a smoother entry into Mali’s dynamic culture and landscapes. Enjoy your trip!