Ivory Coast Visa: Entry requirements and pre-travel information for Ivory Coast

Wondering if you need a visa for your upcoming trip to Ivory Coast? You're in the right place. This article will guide you through understanding whether you require a visa, identifying the appropriate visa based on your travel intentions, and navigating the application process.

What’s an Ivory Coast eVisa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Ivory Coast eVisa for?

Citizens of more than 100 countries, including Angola, Jamaica, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Pakistan, and more require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

To see if you're eligible for an Ivory Coast Tourist eVisa, use the Visa Checker Tool.

Who’s not eligible for an Ivory Coast eVisa?

• Travelers from countries not listed among the eligible nationalities for an eVisa.

• Individuals holding diplomatic or official passports.

What’s the purpose of the Ivory Coast eVisa?

• Tourism activities like sightseeing, visiting family or friends, and attending cultural events.

• Business travels for attending meetings, conferences, and other professional engagements.

It's not intended for long-term stays, employment, or academic studies​.

How long can you stay with an Ivory Coast eVisa?

The eVisa is valid for 3 months and allows you to enter Ivory Coast multiple times during its validity period.

What’s an Ivory Coast Tourist Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Ivory Coast Tourist Visa for?

Nationals from countries that are not eligible for the Ivory Coast eVisa and need entry permission for short-term stays in Ivory Coast.

Who’s not eligible for an Ivory Coast Tourist Visa?

• Citizens of specific West and North African countries like Benin, Burkina Faso, Seychelles, and Tunisia.

• Individuals from countries with specific visa exemption agreements with Ivory Coast.

• Travelers seeking to engage in activities other than tourism (e.g., employment, long-term study, or permanent residency).

What’s the purpose of the Ivory Coast Tourist Visa?

This visa facilitates tourism-related activities, including exploring Ivory Coast's attractions, vacationing, and visiting family or friends. It's not designed for employment, long-term education, or residency purposes​.

How long can you stay with an Ivory Coast Tourist Visa?

The tourist visa is typically valid for up to 90 days and it can be single or multiple entries. The maximum duration of each stay is defined in the visa terms.

What’s an Ivory Coast Business Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Ivory Coast Business Visa for?

Foreign nationals traveling to the Ivory Coast for business purposes.

What’s the purpose of the Ivory Coast Business Visa?

For short-term business engagements within the Ivory Coast. It allows for activities such as business negotiations, partnership explorations, and participation in trade fairs.

How long can you stay with an Ivory Coast Business Visa?

Typically, the business visa permits a stay of up to 90 days.

What are the Ivorian long-term visa options and who are they for?

Ivory Coast offers a variety of long-term visa options that cater to different groups, including professionals seeking employment, students pursuing education, retirees, and families looking to join their loved ones. Here's a brief overview of some of the more popular ones:

• Work Visa: This is intended for individuals who have secured employment in Ivory Coast. Applicants must usually present a job offer along with other specific documents to qualify​.

• Student Visa: Aimed at those planning to undertake long-term study programs at educational institutions in Ivory Coast. Prospective students must provide proof of enrollment or pre-registration at an Ivorian institution​.

• Residence Visa: For individuals seeking to reside in Ivory Coast for extended periods, possibly for retirement or with family.

At the moment, we don’t handle long-term visas to Ivory Coast. If you need more information on how to apply for them you can contact the nearest Ivorian embassy or consulate.

Staying healthy in the Ivory Coast: Here’s what you need to know

Traveling to the Ivory Coast offers a rich experience, but staying healthy is essential to fully enjoy your trip. Preparation and knowledge are key to a safe visit. We’ve compiled some helpful information to help you as you plan your travels.

Make sure to stay updated on routine vaccines

• Ensure you're up to date with routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot.

• Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended due to the risk of these diseases through contaminated food, water, or blood products.

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for all travelers over 9 months of age coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

• Typhoid vaccine is recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or areas with an increased risk of exposure.

• Rabies vaccine is recommended for travelers who will be involved in outdoor and other activities that might bring them into direct contact with dogs, bats, and other mammals.

• The meningococcal meningitis vaccine may be recommended depending on your travel plans within the country.

• Stay informed about Ivory Coast's COVID-19 guidelines, including any requirements for quarantine, testing, or vaccination proof, by consulting your airline or the Ivory Coast Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene website.

Medical facilities

• The Ivory Coast has both public and private healthcare facilities. Major cities like Abidjan offer a higher standard of care, including modern hospitals and clinics. However, medical facilities outside of big cities may be less advanced.

• Public healthcare facilities are available but might not meet the standards you're accustomed to. For more serious conditions, medical evacuation to a country with more advanced medical facilities might be necessary.

• Familiarizing yourself with the locations of reputable hospitals or clinics near your destination is advisable​.

• Pharmacies are widely available in cities and towns, offering a range of medications. However, it's advisable to carry your necessary prescription medications with you.

Health insurance

It's highly advised to have health insurance throughout your visit.

Medical services, particularly in private hospitals, can incur high costs. Make sure your health insurance encompasses significant medical costs, such as medical evacuation when needed.

Check with your insurance provider to confirm that your policy includes comprehensive protection, especially for:

• Refunds for any travel cancellations, delays, or disruptions.

• Costs related to medical care and evacuation.

• Reimbursement for misplaced luggage.

Things to be aware of when visiting the Ivory Coast

Be mindful of these health considerations when visiting Ivory Coast:

1. Extreme heat: The Ivory Coast has a hot climate, which can lead to dehydration or heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water and rest in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

2. Water-related diseases: Diseases like schistosomiasis can be caught from swimming or wading in certain freshwater bodies. It's best to avoid swimming in freshwater to prevent such diseases.

3. Food and water safety: Be cautious about what you eat and drink. Stick to bottled water, avoid ice cubes, and eat food that is cooked and served hot to avoid foodborne illnesses.

4. Mosquito-borne illnesses: There's a risk of diseases like malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika, all spread by mosquitoes. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under a mosquito net if you're in an area with these diseases.

5. Insect bites: Besides mosquitoes, watch out for ticks and sandflies that can transmit diseases. Cover up and use insect repellent that contains DEET or Picaridin.

Medication for personal use

If you're traveling to Ivory Coast with medication, consider these important guidelines:

• Declare all medications: It's mandatory to declare any prescription and controlled substances when you enter the country.

• Maintain original packaging: Keep all medicines in their original containers, with clear prescription labels.

• Have a prescription or doctor's note: Ensure you have a valid prescription or a letter from your doctor explaining why you need the medication.

• Check for restrictions: Double-check that none of your medications are restricted or banned in Ivory Coast.

• Carry only necessary quantities: Bring just enough medication for the duration of your visit to prevent any complications.