All U.S. citizens traveling to Benin are required to obtain a visa. For most travelers, the most efficient method is the Benin Electronic Visa (E-Visa).
Since April 2018, the Government of Benin has transitioned to a fully digital visa application process for entry and short-stays, eliminating the need to visit a physical embassy for most visa types. This guide details the specific requirements, fees, and procedures required for U.S. citizens to secure a Benin E-Visa accurately.
To ensure your application meets all Benin government specifications, including mandatory yellow fever certification and specific travel document uploads, you may choose to use an assisted service like iVisa for an expert application review.
On This Page
- Understanding the Benin E-Visa
- Do I Need a Benin E-Visa?
- Visa Types, Fees, and Stay Limits
- Application Methods: DIY vs. Assisted Service
- Authorized Ports of Entry
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Additional Benin Entry Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Understanding the Benin E-Visa
The Benin E-Visa is an official travel document issued by the Direction de l'Émigration et de l'Immigration. It serves as a digital replacement for traditional embassy visas for tourism, business, and family visits. Once approved, the Benin E-Visa is emailed to you. You must print this document and present it at the immigration officer at the border to receive your entry authorization.
Do I Need a Benin E-Visa?
Yes, as a U.S. citizen, a visa is mandatory for entry. The Benin E-Visa has become the exclusive method for obtaining a short-stay visa for tourism or business.
You should apply for a Benin E-Visa if your purpose is:
- Tourism: Sightseeing and vacationing.
- Business: Attending meetings, trade fairs, or professional events.
- Family Visit: Visiting relatives or friends residing in Benin.
Note: Holders of U.S. Diplomatic or Official passports, or those seeking a visa extension beyond 90 days, should coordinate with the Embassy of Benin in Washington, D.C. as different rules and submission requirements may apply.
Benin E-Visa Types, Fees, and Stay Limits
Benin offers several E-Visa types based on the duration of your stay and whether you require multiple entries.
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay | Gov. Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Single Entry | 30 Days | 30 Days | €50 (approx. $55 USD) |
| 30-Day Multiple Entry | 30 Days | 30 Days | €75 (approx. $82 USD) |
| 90-Day Multiple Entry | 90 Days | 90 Days | €100 (approx. $110 USD) |
Application Methods: DIY vs. Assisted Service
The Government of Benin manages all E-Visa applications through its centralized digital platform. Accuracy in completing your application and uploading your travel documents is critical, as any error in passport details can lead to rejection or boarding denials.
- Direct Application (DIY): Travelers may apply directly via the official Benin E-Visa portal. This requires the applicant to independently manage all digital uploads, navigate the E-Visa payment system, and monitor their application status using a generated reference number.
- Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer expert assistance and review, iVisa provides a comprehensive application process. Their team verifies that your travel documents, including your passport scan and travel itinerary, meet exact Benin government standards, significantly reducing the risk of your application getting delayed or denied. They offer 24/7 bilingual support.
To enter Benin, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. You also need at least one blank visa page. If you do not meet these requirements, renew your passport before applying for your visa.
Check Expedited Passport Renewal Options (1-Week Service Available)
Authorized Ports of Entry
The Benin E-Visa is accepted for entry at all major international checkpoints, including:
- Air: Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport (COO).
- Land: Major border crossings with Nigeria, Togo, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Step-by-Step Benin E-Visa Application Process
Visa applications should be submitted at least 7-10 days before your intended date of departure.
Step 1: Get Your Information Ready
- Valid U.S. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
- Bio-Page Scan: A clear, high-quality scan of your passport's information page.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Access the official portal or use an assisted service like iVisa to complete your visa application.
- Fill out your personal and travel details exactly as they appear on your U.S. passport.
- Upload your digital documents and pay the required fees using a credit or debit card.
Step 3: Receive and Print Your E-Visa
- Confirmation: Once processed, your E-Visa will be sent directly to your email address.
- Physical Copy: You must print a physical copy of the E-Visa to present to immigration officials upon arrival to gain entry to Benin.
Additional Benin Entry Requirements
An approved E-Visa allows you to travel to Benin but does not guarantee final admission. The final entry decision is determined by immigration officers at the port of entry.
- Yellow Fever Card: You must carry the original International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) to show to health officials upon arrival. Entry will be denied without proof of vaccination.
- Return Ticket: You may be asked to provide proof of departure, such as a confirmed round-trip flight ticket or travel itinerary.
- Minors: Children traveling on their own U.S. passports require their own Benin E-Visa. If a minor is traveling with only one parent, a notarized consent form is recommended.
Benin E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. Short-stay visas (up to 30 - 90 days, depending on the type of E-Visa you obtain) are now processed exclusively online via the E-Visa system. The Embassy in Washington, D.C. primarily handles diplomatic visas and E-visa extensions for U.S. citizens.
Yes. Benin is a high-risk area for Yellow Fever. All foreign travelers are required to show proof of vaccination (Yellow Card) upon arrival. Without a Yellow Card, you will be denied entry.
Processing typically takes 48 to 72 hours, but it is recommended to apply at least one week before travel to avoid any potential delay.
Yes. You must present a printed paper copy of your E-Visa to the airline before boarding and to the immigration officer at the border upon arrival.
Yes. If you have a 30- or 90-day E-visa and wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension through the Direction de l'Émigration et de l'Immigration in Cotonou or coordinate with the Benin Embassy.
Secure your Benin E-Visa through iVisa today to ensure your application meets all official documentation standards.
