Burkina Faso, meaning "Land of Upright People" in the local Mossi and Dioula languages, is one of West Africa's most culturally rich nations. Home to the world-famous FESPACO film festival, vibrant traditional markets, and warm hospitality that defines the Burkinabè spirit, this landlocked country offers authentic African experiences far from tourist crowds. From the bustling energy of Ouagadougou to the stunning Sindou Peaks and sacred crocodile ponds of Bazoulé, Burkina Faso rewards adventurous travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion. The Burkina Faso e-Visa system now makes obtaining travel authorization straightforward—apply online and receive your visa electronically without embassy visits.
What is the Burkina Faso e-Visa?
The Burkina Faso e-Visa is an electronic travel authorization that allows visitors to enter the country for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Introduced to modernize the visa process, it eliminates the need to visit a Burkinabè embassy or consulate in person—you apply entirely online.
Once approved, you receive your e-Visa via email as a PDF document. Print this and present it alongside your passport at immigration upon arrival at Ouagadougou Airport or other entry points. The e-Visa is electronically linked to your passport number, making verification quick and efficient.
This digital system represents Burkina Faso's commitment to facilitating travel while maintaining secure borders. For travelers, it means faster processing, no mailing passports, and greater convenience.
e-Visa at a Glance
Visa types: Single entry (30 days) or Multiple entry (90 days)
Maximum stay: Up to 30 days per visit
Processing time: 3-5 business days
Cost: From $50 USD (single entry)
Purpose: Tourism, business, transit, family visit
Yellow fever vaccination: REQUIRED
Validity: Starts from approval date
Who Can Apply for a Burkina Faso e-Visa?
The Burkina Faso e-Visa is available to citizens of most countries worldwide. Understanding eligibility helps ensure you apply correctly.
- Most nationalities eligible: Citizens of USA, UK, EU countries, Australia, Canada, and most other nations can apply for the e-Visa
- ECOWAS exemptions: Citizens of ECOWAS member states (Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, etc.) can visit visa-free
- Purpose of travel: Tourism, business meetings, conferences, family visits, and transit are covered
- Age requirements: All ages can apply; minors need parental consent documentation
- Previous denials: Past visa denials don't automatically disqualify you, but address the reason for prior denial
- Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date
Check Current Eligibility
E-Visa eligibility can change. Use our visa checker tool to confirm current requirements for your specific nationality before applying.
Requirements for Burkina Faso e-Visa
Gather all required documents before starting your application to ensure a smooth process:
- Valid passport: Must have at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages for stamps
- Passport scan: Clear, color scan of your passport's biographical data page
- Digital passport photo: Recent photo (within 6 months), white background, 35x45mm dimensions
- Yellow fever certificate: MANDATORY—must be vaccinated at least 10 days before arrival
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from host
- Return flight ticket: Confirmed return or onward travel itinerary
- Travel itinerary: Brief outline of your planned activities in Burkina Faso
- Proof of funds: Bank statement showing sufficient funds for your trip
- Business documents: For business travelers, invitation letter from Burkinabè company
- Credit/debit card: For online payment of visa fees
- Valid email address: Your approved visa will be sent here
Yellow Fever Vaccination is MANDATORY
Burkina Faso requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for ALL travelers regardless of origin. You must be vaccinated at least 10 days before arrival. Without this certificate, you will be denied entry. Get vaccinated at a certified travel health clinic.
How to Apply for Burkina Faso e-Visa
Follow these steps for a successful e-Visa application:
- Check eligibility: Confirm e-Visa is available for your nationality using our visa checker
- Gather all documents: Collect passport, photo, yellow fever certificate, accommodation proof, and flight tickets
- Start your application: Visit the Burkina Faso e-Visa portal or use DoVisa's guided application for expert assistance
- Complete personal details: Enter your full name exactly as in passport, date of birth, nationality, and contact information
- Enter travel information: Provide your planned arrival date, port of entry, accommodation address, and purpose of visit
- Upload required documents: Submit clear scans of passport, photo, yellow fever certificate, and supporting documents
- Review your application: Double-check all information for accuracy—errors cause delays or rejection
- Pay the visa fee: Complete payment online via credit/debit card ($50-100 depending on type)
- Submit and wait: Processing typically takes 3-5 business days
- Receive your e-Visa: Once approved, your e-Visa arrives via email as a PDF—print it for travel
Apply Early
We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before travel. While processing is typically 3-5 days, extra time protects against unexpected delays or requests for additional documentation.
Costs and Processing Time
Burkina Faso e-Visa fees vary based on the type of visa:
e-Visa Options and Costs
| Visa Type | Validity | Stay Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | 30 days | Up to 30 days | $50 USD |
| Multiple Entry | 90 days | Up to 30 days per visit | $100 USD |
| Express Processing | Any type | +$25 surcharge | 2 business days |
Processing times:
- Standard processing: 3-5 business days
- Express processing: 2 business days (additional $25 fee)
Note: Visa validity starts from the approval date, not your arrival date. Plan your application timing accordingly.
Apply for Your Burkina Faso e-Visa with DoVisa
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid These Application Errors
Visa rejections are often due to preventable mistakes. Here's what to watch out for:
- Missing yellow fever certificate: This is the #1 reason for entry denial—get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel
- Passport validity issues: Ensure 6+ months validity and at least 2 blank pages
- Name mismatches: Enter your name exactly as it appears in your passport, including middle names
- Poor quality photo: Use a recent photo with white background, proper dimensions, no glasses
- Incomplete accommodation: Provide confirmed reservations with full address
- Missing return flight: You must show confirmed return or onward travel
- Insufficient funds proof: Bank statement should show enough to cover your trip
- Applying too late: Allow at least 2 weeks for processing
DoVisa Expert Review
When you apply through DoVisa, our visa experts review your application before submission, catching errors that could cause delays or rejection. We verify document quality, check for completeness, and ensure maximum approval chances.
Important Travel Advisory
Check Current Security Situation
Burkina Faso has experienced security challenges in recent years, particularly in northern and eastern border regions. Check your government's travel advisory before planning a trip. Some areas have 'Do Not Travel' warnings. The capital Ouagadougou and central regions are generally safer, but exercise caution throughout the country.
If you choose to visit, consider:
- Registering with your country's embassy
- Hiring reputable local guides
- Avoiding travel after dark outside major cities
- Staying informed about current conditions
- Having comprehensive travel insurance including evacuation coverage
Travel Tips for Burkina Faso
For those who do visit, Burkina Faso offers incredible cultural experiences. Here's essential advice:
- Best time to visit: November to February offers cooler, drier weather (25-35°C). Avoid March-May (extremely hot, 40°C+) and June-October (rainy season)
- Language: French is the official language and essential for getting around. Moore (Mossi) is widely spoken. Very limited English outside hotels
- Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF), pegged to Euro. Euros exchange easily; USD less so. Limited ATMs—bring cash
- Must-see destinations: Ouagadougou's Grand Marché, Sindou Peaks rock formations, sacred crocodiles of Bazoulé, Banfora waterfalls, Bobo-Dioulasso's old town
- FESPACO: Africa's largest film festival held biennially in Ouagadougou—an incredible cultural experience if your timing aligns
- Local cuisine: Try tô (millet porridge with sauce), riz gras (jollof rice), and brochettes (grilled meat skewers). Street food is delicious and affordable
- Health precautions: Beyond yellow fever, consider hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and meningitis vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is essential
- Cultural etiquette: Greetings are important—always greet before business. Dress modestly, especially in Muslim areas
- Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people or government buildings
Insider Tip
The sacred crocodiles of Bazoulé (about 30km from Ouagadougou) are a unique experience—you can actually touch these gentle crocodiles with a local guide. Visit early morning when they're most active.
Why Apply with DoVisa?
Expert visa consultants review your application
Document verification before submission
Fast processing options available
24/7 customer support in multiple languages
Secure PCI-DSS compliant payment
Track application status online
Money-back guarantee if denied
Travel advisory updates included
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burkina Faso safe to visit?
Is the yellow fever vaccine really mandatory?
What's the best time to visit Burkina Faso?
Do I need to speak French?
What if my e-Visa is rejected?
Can I extend my visa in Burkina Faso?
What vaccinations do I need besides yellow fever?
How will I receive my approved e-Visa?
What's the currency situation?
Can I visit the FESPACO film festival?
Planning Your Trip
Burkina Faso offers authentic West African experiences for travelers who do their research and take appropriate precautions. The warmth of the Burkinabè people—the "upright people"—is legendary, and the cultural experiences are genuinely unique.
If you're planning to visit, thoroughly research current conditions, consider guided travel with reputable local operators, and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. When you're ready, apply for your e-Visa through DoVisa—our team will ensure your application is complete and maximize your approval chances.
Burkina Faso
Capital: Ouagadougou
Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)
Language: French (official), Moore, Dioula
Timezone: UTC (Greenwich Mean Time)
Processing: 3-5 business days
Quick Facts
- Best time: November - February
- Check travel advisories before visiting
- Power: 220V, Type C/E plugs
- Country code: +226
- Population: 22 million
- Name means: Land of Upright People
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Comments(12)
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Visited for FESPACO film festival two years ago - an incredible cultural experience! The Burkinabè people are incredibly welcoming. Stayed safe by following local advice.
Question: Is the yellow fever vaccine card checked at the airport or just at the health center?
The sacred crocodiles at Bazoulé are AMAZING! I was nervous at first but the guides are experienced and the crocs are surprisingly calm. Such a unique experience.
Had an issue with my passport photo being rejected. DoVisa support (Michelle was great!) helped me fix it within an hour. Appreciated the quick response on a Sunday!
As a French speaker, getting around was easy. For English speakers - definitely learn some basic French or hire a guide. The Grand Marché in Ouaga is overwhelming but amazing!
How far in advance should I book accommodation? Planning for FESPACO next year.
The tô with peanut sauce is delicious! Street food is amazing and super cheap. Just make sure to eat where locals eat - busier stalls = fresher food.
Shoutout to DoVisa customer support! My application got stuck in processing and they followed up directly with the authorities. Visa came through 2 days later. Worth the service fee!
The Sindou Peaks are spectacular - like another planet! Hire a local guide from Sindou village, they know the best viewpoints and the history of the formations.
Question: Can I use USD or should I bring Euros? What about card payments?
Travel insurance tip: Make sure your policy covers evacuation! Regular travel insurance isn't enough given the security situation. I used World Nomads with their adventure upgrade.
The people really are 'upright' - so honest and welcoming. My taxi driver returned my phone I left in his car, chased me down to give it back. Beautiful country, beautiful people.