Get Your Ascension Island Entry Permit Online
Fast permit processing for work, research, military support, and approved visits — your gateway to one of Earth's most remote destinations
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Ascension Island Entry Permit
Quick 4-step process — permits typically processed within 2-4 weeks
1
Complete the online application
Fill in your personal details, purpose of visit, and sponsorship information. All visitors must have an approved sponsor on the island.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport copy, sponsorship letter, medical clearance, and any required work permits or research authorizations.
3
We process your permit
Our team coordinates with the Ascension Island Government for permit approval. You'll receive updates throughout the process.
4
Receive your entry permit
Once approved, your entry permit is issued electronically. You'll need this to board RAF or authorized flights to the island.
Ascension Island Entry Requirements & Permit Information
Short-Term Entry Permit
Up to 3 months
For approved visitors with valid sponsorship from island residents
Work Permit
Contract duration
For contractors and employees of island organizations
Research Permit
Project-based
For scientists studying wildlife, geology, and marine ecosystems
Transit Authorization
48-72 hours
For travelers transiting through on RAF or charter flights
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
- Official sponsorship letter from an island-based organization or resident
- Medical clearance certificate and proof of comprehensive health insurance
- Confirmed flight booking on RAF Brize Norton service or St Helena connection
- Guaranteed accommodation arranged through your sponsor
- Proof of sufficient funds for your entire stay on the island
Understanding Ascension Island Entry Permits
Ascension Island is a British Overseas Territory located in the South Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,000 miles from the African coast. Unlike most destinations, all visitors require an entry permit regardless of nationality — there is no visa-free access. The island operates primarily as a military and communications base, with a small civilian population of around 800 people. Entry permits are granted only to those with a legitimate purpose and approved sponsorship. Common permit categories include work contracts with the military or civilian organizations, scientific research expeditions, and family visits to island residents. The permit application process typically takes 2-4 weeks, though complex cases may require longer processing times.
Work Permits and Employment on Ascension Island
Employment on Ascension Island is managed by several key organizations. The US Air Force operates a tracking station, while the Royal Air Force maintains facilities for transatlantic flights. The BBC World Service operates a relay station, and the Ascension Island Government employs workers in essential services. Cable & Wireless (now Sure) provides telecommunications services. Work permits are tied to specific employment contracts and require sponsorship from the employing organization. Workers typically receive housing and facilities access as part of their employment package. Contract lengths vary from 6 months to 3 years depending on the role. All workers must undergo background checks and provide medical clearance before permits are issued.
Research and Scientific Expeditions
Ascension Island is a globally significant site for conservation and scientific research. The island hosts one of the world's largest green sea turtle nesting populations, with thousands of females returning each year to Long Beach. Researchers study endemic species including the Ascension frigatebird and the Ascension Island spurge plant. Marine biologists explore the island's protected waters, which feature some of the Atlantic's most pristine ecosystems. Geological researchers study the island's volcanic formations and its position along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Research permits require approval from the Ascension Island Government Conservation Department and often involve collaboration with organizations like the Zoological Society of London or University researchers. Permits typically include conditions regarding environmental protection and data sharing.
Travel Logistics and Entry Points
Reaching Ascension Island requires careful planning as there is no civilian airport or regular passenger service. The primary access route is via RAF flights from Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, UK. These flights operate twice monthly and are available to permit holders only. An alternative route connects through St Helena, which now has a commercial airport with links to Johannesburg, South Africa. From St Helena, the inter-island ship MV Helena provides passage to Ascension. All travelers must have their entry permit approved before booking any transportation. The Wideawake Airfield on Ascension handles all incoming flights but has no passenger terminal facilities. Travelers should expect a basic but functional arrival process, with immigration checks conducted on the runway. The island has no hotels — all accommodation is arranged through sponsors.
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| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
500+Permits processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
94%Approval rate
"DoVisa made my work permit application for Ascension incredibly straightforward. The team understood the unique requirements and kept me informed throughout the process."
"As a marine biologist, getting research permits for remote territories can be challenging. DoVisa handled everything professionally and my permit arrived ahead of schedule."
"Good service overall. The process took a bit longer than expected due to sponsorship verification, but the team kept me updated and my permit was approved."
"Excellent support for a complicated application. They helped coordinate between my employer and the island government seamlessly."
"Very helpful with the RAF flight coordination advice. The permit process was well explained and handled efficiently."
"Third time using DoVisa for Ascension permits and they never disappoint. Knowledgeable team who understand the territory's requirements."
"The medical clearance documentation requirements were confusing initially, but DoVisa guided me through exactly what was needed."
"Solid service for a niche destination. Would recommend for anyone needing permits for British Overseas Territories."
"Outstanding expertise in Ascension Island permits. They knew exactly what documentation the government would require."
"My husband works on the island and visiting required complex paperwork. DoVisa made our family reunion possible."
"Helpful service, though the inherent complexity of Ascension permits means patience is required. Good communication throughout."
Ascension Island Entry Permit FAQs
What types of entry permits are available for Ascension Island?
Ascension Island offers several permit categories based on your purpose of visit. Short-term entry permits are available for family visits and approved guests (up to 3 months). Work permits are issued to employees and contractors of island organizations. Research permits cover scientific expeditions and conservation work. Transit authorization is available for those passing through on RAF flights. All permits require sponsorship from an island-based organization or resident.
Do I need a permit to visit Ascension Island?
Yes, all visitors require an entry permit regardless of nationality. There is no visa-free access to Ascension Island. This applies to British citizens, Commonwealth nationals, and all other passport holders equally. The island's unique status as a military and communications base means strict access controls are maintained. You cannot board any flight to Ascension without an approved entry permit.
How do I get a sponsor for my Ascension Island permit?
Sponsorship must come from either an organization operating on the island or a current island resident. For work permits, your employer acts as sponsor. For family visits, your relative on the island must provide sponsorship. Research permits typically require sponsorship from the Conservation Department or a collaborating organization. The sponsor is responsible for your accommodation and takes responsibility for your presence on the island.
What documents are required for an Ascension Island entry permit?
Required documents include: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay, official sponsorship letter from your island sponsor, medical clearance certificate confirming fitness to travel to a remote location, proof of health insurance covering emergency evacuation, confirmed accommodation details arranged through your sponsor, and proof of sufficient funds. Work permits also require employment contracts and background checks.
How long can I stay on Ascension Island?
Stay duration depends on your permit type. Short-term entry permits typically allow stays of up to 3 months. Work permits are valid for the duration of your employment contract, commonly 6 months to 3 years. Research permits are project-based and can range from weeks to months. All permits specify your authorized stay period, and extensions must be applied for through the Administrator's Office on the island.
Can I extend my entry permit while on Ascension Island?
Permit extensions are possible but must be applied for before your current permit expires. Applications are submitted to the Administrator's Office in Georgetown. Extensions require continued sponsorship and valid reasons for the extended stay. Work permit extensions are typically straightforward if employment continues. Visitor extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis and require ongoing accommodation and financial arrangements.
Can I work on Ascension Island with a visitor permit?
No, visitor permits do not authorize employment. If you wish to work on Ascension Island, you must apply for a specific work permit sponsored by your employer. Employment opportunities are limited to positions with the RAF, US Air Force, BBC, telecommunications companies, or the Ascension Island Government. Unauthorized work is a serious offense and can result in deportation and entry ban.
How do I travel to Ascension Island?
There are two main routes to Ascension Island. The primary route is via RAF flights from Brize Norton, UK, which operate approximately twice monthly. The alternative route is through St Helena using the MV Helena inter-island ship. There is no civilian airport on Ascension and no commercial passenger flights. All travel must be booked after your entry permit is approved. RAF flight bookings are managed through the Ascension Island Government travel office.
What is the permit processing time for Ascension Island?
Standard permit processing takes 2-4 weeks from submission of a complete application. Complex cases involving additional background checks or coordination with multiple organizations may take longer. We recommend applying at least 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for processing and flight booking. Work permits involving security clearances may require 8-12 weeks.
What happens if my permit application is rejected?
If your permit is rejected, you will receive notification with the reason for refusal. Common rejection reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient sponsorship verification, or concerns about the purpose of visit. You may reapply with corrected documentation or additional supporting evidence. DoVisa can help review rejection reasons and strengthen subsequent applications. There is no formal appeals process, but reconsideration requests can be submitted to the Administrator's Office.
Is there accommodation available on Ascension Island?
Ascension Island has no hotels or tourist accommodation. All accommodation is arranged through your sponsor. Workers typically receive housing provided by their employer. Family visitors stay with their resident relatives. Researchers may be allocated accommodation through their sponsoring organization. Housing on the island includes the Obsidian Hotel (for authorized personnel), Georgetown residences, and accommodation at Two Boats Village. Your sponsor confirms accommodation arrangements as part of the permit application.
What medical facilities are available on Ascension Island?
Ascension Island has a small hospital in Georgetown providing basic medical care. The hospital can handle minor emergencies and routine medical needs. Serious medical conditions require emergency evacuation to the UK, South Africa, or the Falkland Islands via RAF or charter aircraft. This is why comprehensive medical insurance with evacuation coverage is mandatory. The island has a resident doctor and nurses, but specialist care is not available.
When is the best time to visit Ascension Island?
Ascension Island has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round (21-30°C). The best time for wildlife viewing is December to May during green sea turtle nesting season. Seabird nesting occurs throughout the year at various colonies. The island experiences minimal rainfall, though Green Mountain creates its own microclimate with occasional mist. RAF flight schedules may influence your timing more than weather conditions.
What currency is used on Ascension Island?
The official currency is the Saint Helena Pound (SHP), which is pegged to and interchangeable with the British Pound (GBP). US Dollars are also widely accepted given the American military presence. Credit cards have limited acceptance — cash and direct billing through employers are common. There is no ATM on the island, so visitors should bring sufficient cash or arrange payment through their sponsor.
Can I bring my family to Ascension Island?
Family members of workers can apply for dependent permits to accompany or join the primary permit holder. This requires the worker's employer to sponsor family accommodation. Family visitors to island residents can obtain short-term entry permits sponsored by their relative. All family members, including children, require individual entry permits. School facilities are available on the island for dependent children.
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