Get Your Chad Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for adventure travel, business, and exploring the Sahara Desert
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Chad Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, travel itinerary, and purpose of visit. Our system guides you through Chad's specific visa requirements, ensuring all necessary fields are completed correctly for embassy submission.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible with 6+ months validity), two recent passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation in Chad, and supporting documents such as invitation letters or tour bookings. Our specialists review everything for compliance.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to the Chadian embassy or consulate. We track your application status throughout the process and communicate any updates, additional document requests, or interview requirements via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa
Once approved, your Chad visa is stamped in your passport or issued as a separate document. We coordinate return of your passport and provide all necessary travel documentation. Bienvenue au Tchad — welcome to one of Africa's last frontiers!
Chad Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Single or multiple entry for tourism and exploration
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and professional meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 7 days
For travelers passing through Chad
Visitor Visa
Up to 30 days
For visiting family and friends in Chad
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate mandatory
- Two passport photos 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- Confirmed round-trip flight itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Transit Visas
Chad requires all visitors except nationals of a few African countries to obtain a visa before arrival. The visa application process is handled through Chadian embassies and consulates worldwide, with DoVisa facilitating the entire process for a seamless experience.
Tourist Visa
The Chad tourist visa is designed for travelers wishing to explore the country's remarkable natural landscapes, including the Sahara Desert, Ennedi Plateau, Zakouma National Park, and Lake Chad. Tourist visas are typically issued for 30 to 90 days as single or multiple entry, depending on your travel plans. This visa permits tourism activities, photography expeditions, visiting archaeological sites, and wildlife observation. Chad is increasingly popular among adventure travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations in Central Africa.
Transit Visa
Travelers passing through Chad en route to other Central African destinations may apply for a transit visa valid for up to 7 days. This is suitable for overland travelers crossing Chad between Niger, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, Cameroon, or Nigeria. Transit visas require proof of onward travel arrangements and valid visas for your final destination country if applicable.
Business & Work Visas
Business Visa
Chad's growing oil industry and development projects attract business travelers from around the world. The business visa allows stays of 30 to 90 days for commercial activities including attending meetings, negotiating contracts, exploring investment opportunities in petroleum and mining sectors, and establishing trade relationships. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from a Chadian company or organization, a letter from your employer explaining the business purpose, and company registration documents.
Work Visa & Permits
Foreign nationals seeking employment in Chad must obtain a work visa followed by a work permit. This process requires employer sponsorship from a registered Chadian company. The petroleum, construction, telecommunications, and NGO sectors are the primary employers of foreign workers. Work permits are typically issued for one year and are renewable. The process involves multiple government departments and requires extensive documentation including professional qualifications and police clearance certificates.
Journalist & Media Visa
Media professionals require a special journalist visa with additional authorization from Chad's Ministry of Communication. This visa is essential for documentary filmmakers, news correspondents, and photographers on assignment in Chad.
Visa Requirements & Health
Essential Documentation
All Chad visa applicants must provide the following:
• Valid passport: Minimum 6 months validity beyond intended stay with at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps and entry/exit stamps
• Passport photographs: Two recent color photos (35x45mm) on white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Yellow fever vaccination: Mandatory for all travelers regardless of country of origin. Must be administered at least 10 days before arrival
• Completed application form: Accurately filled with all travel and personal details
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations, tour operator booking, or invitation letter from host in Chad
• Flight itinerary: Confirmed round-trip or onward travel bookings
• Financial evidence: Bank statements or proof of sufficient funds
Health Requirements
Beyond yellow fever vaccination, travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are current and consider hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and rabies vaccines depending on activities planned. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended as malaria is endemic throughout Chad. Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential given limited medical facilities outside N'Djamena.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points
Chad visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Hassan Djamous International Airport (NDJ) in N'Djamena is the primary international gateway, with connections from Paris, Addis Ababa, Casablanca, Cairo, and regional African cities
• Land borders: Crossing points with Cameroon (Kousseri), Nigeria (multiple crossings), Niger (Nguigmi), Sudan (Adre), Central African Republic (Gore), and Libya (northern border — currently restricted due to security)
Processing Times
Chad visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days through embassy applications, though times can vary significantly based on your location, embassy workload, and visa type. Business visas with proper corporate documentation may process faster. During peak periods and around holidays, allow additional time. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.
Travel Advisory
Before traveling, check current government travel advisories for Chad. Some border regions and the Lake Chad area have security concerns. Travelers should register with their embassy and maintain communication with tour operators regarding current conditions.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| 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 |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"DoVisa made getting my Chad visa straightforward. The team guided me through every step and my visa was ready in 8 days. Excellent service for a complex destination!"
"As a French photographer heading to Ennedi, I needed reliable visa support. DoVisa delivered perfectly. They even helped with my journalist accreditation requirements."
"The process took about 10 days but DoVisa kept me informed throughout. Their expertise with Chad's requirements saved me a lot of stress. Would use again."
"Business visa for N'Djamena processed smoothly. DoVisa understood the oil industry requirements and had my documentation ready quickly. Professional team."
"Traveling overland from Cameroon to Chad, DoVisa arranged my transit paperwork perfectly. Their knowledge of border crossing requirements was invaluable."
"Not many agencies handle Chad visas well, but DoVisa exceeded expectations. Clear communication and proper handling of all embassy requirements. Recommended!"
"Adventure trip to Zakouma National Park was amazing! DoVisa handled all the visa complexity so I could focus on planning my wildlife photography expedition."
"Got my Chad tourist visa with no issues. The support team was responsive and knowledgeable about current requirements. Great experience from start to finish."
"DoVisa helped with my family visit visa to see relatives in N'Djamena. They explained all the invitation letter requirements clearly. Visa approved in 9 days."
"Expedition to the Tibesti Mountains required careful visa planning. DoVisa navigated the special permit requirements expertly. An essential service for Chad travel!"
Chad Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Chad?
Chad offers several visa categories for foreign visitors. Tourist visa allows stays of 30-90 days for sightseeing, photography expeditions, wildlife observation, and cultural exploration. Business visa permits commercial activities including meetings, contract negotiations, and investment exploration, particularly in the oil and mining sectors. Transit visa allows up to 7 days for travelers passing through Chad to neighboring countries. Visitor visa is for those visiting family or friends residing in Chad. Work visa is required for employment, followed by obtaining a work permit. Journalist visa is mandatory for media professionals with additional ministry authorization. The appropriate visa depends on your purpose of visit, intended duration, and whether you require single or multiple entries.
Do all nationalities need a visa for Chad?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Chad. There are limited visa exemptions primarily for citizens of some Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) member states including Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon, who may enter visa-free for short stays. Diplomatic and official passport holders from certain countries may also have exemptions. All other nationalities, including citizens of the USA, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, and most Asian and African nations, must obtain a visa before arrival. Chad does not offer visa on arrival for most nationalities, making advance application essential. Always verify current requirements for your specific nationality before booking travel.
What documents are required for a Chad visa application?
Essential documents for all applications: Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages; two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm on white background); completed visa application form; proof of yellow fever vaccination (mandatory); confirmed round-trip or onward flight itinerary; proof of accommodation in Chad. Additional requirements by visa type: Tourist visa requires tour booking or detailed travel itinerary; Business visa needs invitation letter from Chadian company, employer letter, and company registration documents; Visitor visa requires invitation letter from host in Chad with their ID copy; Work visa needs employment contract and employer sponsorship documents. Financial proof: Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay. All documents should be clear, legible copies or originals as specified by the embassy.
How long does Chad visa processing take?
Chad visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days through standard embassy application, though times vary based on several factors. Processing variables: Your location (proximity to Chadian embassy), embassy workload, completeness of documentation, and visa type all affect timing. Business visas with proper corporate sponsorship may process faster. Peak periods: Around French and Chadian holidays, Ramadan, and embassy closure periods, processing may extend to 2-3 weeks. Recommendations: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before intended travel; respond promptly to any additional document requests; ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate before submission. DoVisa's document review service helps ensure applications meet requirements, reducing the risk of delays or rejections.
Is yellow fever vaccination mandatory for Chad?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Chad, regardless of your country of origin or transit route. This is strictly enforced, and you will be denied entry without a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Requirements: The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival to allow immunity to develop. The certificate is valid for life following 2016 WHO guidelines. Where to get vaccinated: Authorized travel health clinics, international vaccination centers, and some hospitals administer yellow fever vaccine. Schedule your appointment 4-6 weeks before travel to ensure the 10-day requirement is met. At immigration: Officials will check your yellow card at arrival — keep it with your passport at all times. Additional health recommendations: While not mandatory, vaccinations for hepatitis A/B, typhoid, meningitis, and rabies are strongly recommended, along with malaria prophylaxis.
Can I extend my Chad visa once I arrive?
Yes, visa extensions are possible in Chad but must be arranged through the Direction de l'Immigration in N'Djamena before your current visa expires. Extension process: Visit the immigration office with your passport, current visa, passport photographs, proof of continued accommodation, financial evidence, and the extension fee. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days. Maximum stay: Extensions are generally granted for an additional 30-90 days depending on your visa type and justification. The total stay permitted varies by visa category. Important considerations: Apply for extension at least one week before your visa expires; overstaying is a serious offense resulting in fines, detention, and potential deportation with future visa complications. Business travelers: May find extensions easier to obtain with continued business justification and corporate support letters. Recommendation: If you anticipate needing a longer stay, apply for the maximum duration visa initially.
What are the main entry points into Chad?
Hassan Djamous International Airport (NDJ) in N'Djamena is Chad's primary international gateway, receiving flights from Paris (Air France), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Casablanca (Royal Air Maroc), Cairo (EgyptAir), and various African cities. Land borders: Chad shares borders with six countries with various crossing points. Cameroon: The Kousseri-N'Djamena crossing is the busiest, connecting to Maroua and the road network into West Africa. Nigeria: Multiple crossings in the southwest near Lake Chad. Niger: Northern crossing at Nguigmi for overland travelers from Niamey. Sudan: Eastern crossing at Adre, connecting to Darfur region. Central African Republic: Southern crossing at Gore. Libya: Northern borders exist but are currently restricted due to ongoing security concerns. Important: Your visa is valid at all official entry points, but some land borders may have irregular hours or require additional permits. Confirm crossing procedures and current security conditions before overland travel.
Can I work in Chad with a tourist visa?
No, Chad tourist and business visas do not permit employment or receiving salary from Chadian entities. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, sightseeing, wildlife observation, photography, and visiting archaeological sites. Business visas allow commercial activities such as attending meetings, exploring investment opportunities, and negotiating contracts, but not paid employment. Legal employment requires: First obtaining a work visa before entering Chad, then applying for a work permit (Permis de Travail) through your Chadian employer. The process involves the Ministry of Labor, extensive documentation including professional qualifications, and can take several months. Primary employment sectors: Oil and gas (largest employer of foreign workers), construction, telecommunications, NGOs/humanitarian organizations, and education. Penalties: Working illegally in Chad risks fines, imprisonment, deportation, and long-term visa bans. Authorities conduct workplace inspections, particularly at foreign companies and NGO offices.
Is Chad safe for tourists?
Chad presents unique travel considerations with varying safety levels by region. Generally safer areas: N'Djamena city center, Zakouma National Park (with organized tours), and established tourist circuits in the Ennedi Plateau region with reputable operators. Areas of concern: Northern borders with Libya, the Lake Chad basin (Boko Haram activity), eastern borders with Sudan, and the Tibesti region require careful evaluation and sometimes special permits. Essential precautions: Travel with established tour operators experienced in Chad; register with your embassy; maintain communication equipment; avoid travel after dark outside cities; stay informed about current conditions. Tour operators: Reputable operators like those specializing in Ennedi expeditions maintain security protocols and local intelligence networks. Practical advice: Check government travel advisories before departure; ensure comprehensive travel and medical evacuation insurance; carry copies of all documents; inform someone of your itinerary. The security situation can change rapidly — flexibility and local guidance are essential.
What is the best time to visit Chad?
The best time to visit Chad depends on your interests and regions you plan to explore. November to February (Cool Dry Season): Ideal for most travel with pleasant temperatures (20-35C), minimal rainfall, and comfortable conditions for desert expeditions and wildlife viewing. This is peak tourist season. March to May (Hot Dry Season): Extremely hot (40-45C) in much of the country. Desert travel becomes challenging but possible with proper preparation. June to October (Rainy Season): Variable conditions with heaviest rains July-August. Some roads become impassable, but landscapes are green and wildlife congregates around water sources. Zakouma National Park: Best visited November to May when animals concentrate around diminishing water sources and access roads are reliable. Ennedi Plateau: Best October to March when temperatures are manageable for hiking and photography. Lake Chad: Accessible year-round but more interesting during dry season when wildlife is visible. Recommendation: For first-time visitors, November to February offers the most comfortable and accessible conditions.
What happens if my Chad visa application is rejected?
Chad visa rejections, while uncommon for properly prepared applications, can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation, missing yellow fever certificate, insufficient financial proof, unclear purpose of travel, previous immigration violations, passport validity issues, or security concerns about proposed travel regions. If rejected: You'll receive notification from the embassy, though detailed reasons may not always be provided. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues. There is typically no formal appeals process, but new applications are considered independently. Prevention strategies: Ensure all documents are complete and clearly legible; provide comprehensive travel plans with confirmed accommodation; include detailed itinerary especially for remote regions; submit well in advance to allow time for queries. DoVisa support: Our pre-submission review catches common errors and omissions. If rejection occurs due to our processing error, we provide refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
Do I need special permits beyond a visa for travel within Chad?
Yes, certain regions and activities in Chad require additional permits beyond your entry visa. Photography permits: Professional photography and filming require authorization from the Ministry of Communication. This applies to documentary filmmakers, journalists, and commercial photographers. Protected areas: National parks including Zakouma require park entry permits, typically arranged through tour operators. Northern regions: The Tibesti Mountains and some northern desert areas may require special travel permits (Autorisation de Circuler) due to security considerations. Border regions: Travel near borders with Libya, Sudan, or CAR may require additional authorization. Scientific research: Research expeditions need permits from relevant ministries. How to obtain: Most permits are arranged through tour operators who have established relationships with authorities. Independent travelers should contact the Ministry of Interior in N'Djamena. Recommendation: Work with experienced Chad tour operators who handle permit arrangements as part of their service — navigating bureaucracy independently can be challenging and time-consuming.
What currency should I bring to Chad?
Chad uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF), which is pegged to the Euro. Currency recommendations: Bring Euros or US Dollars for exchange — Euros typically get better rates due to the peg. Exchange at banks or authorized forex bureaus in N'Djamena. Avoid street money changers. Cash dependency: Chad is largely a cash economy. Credit cards are only accepted at major hotels and some businesses in N'Djamena — always carry sufficient cash. ATMs: Available in N'Djamena at major banks but may not always function or accept international cards. Don't rely on ATMs as your only cash source. Outside the capital: Cash only is the rule. Bring all needed funds in XAF or major currencies for exchange in regional towns. Safari and expedition costs: Often payable in Euros or USD to international operators. Confirm payment requirements with your tour company. Practical tips: Carry a mix of denominations; smaller bills are useful for local purchases; keep money secure but accessible; inform your bank of travel plans.
Do children need their own Chad visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants and children requires their own Chad visa. There are no family visa provisions or allowances for children on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photographs meeting same specifications as adults; completed application form with child's details; yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for all ages); consent documentation if traveling with only one parent or without parents (notarized authorization letter from non-traveling parent). Application process: Parents typically submit children's applications together with their own. Each visa is processed and issued separately with individual fees. Fees: Children pay the same visa fees as adults — no reduced rates for minors. Travel considerations: Chad can be challenging for young children due to climate, limited medical facilities, and long travel distances. Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covers all family members including medical evacuation.
What are the main attractions in Chad worth the visa effort?
Chad offers extraordinary attractions for adventurous travelers. Ennedi Plateau: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring dramatic sandstone formations, natural arches, and prehistoric rock art dating back thousands of years. The landscape rivals Arizona's monuments in scale and beauty. Zakouma National Park: One of Africa's great conservation success stories, home to recovering elephant populations, lions, giraffes, and over 370 bird species. The park offers authentic safari experiences without crowds. Lake Chad: Though shrinking, this historic lake remains culturally significant with traditional fishing communities and unique ecosystems. Tibesti Mountains: The Sahara's highest mountain range with volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and ancient caravan routes. Ounianga Lakes: Another UNESCO site — a complex of desert lakes with stunning colors and unique formations. N'Djamena: The capital offers markets, the National Museum, and the Grand Mosque. Cultural experiences: Nomadic communities, traditional festivals, and diverse ethnic cultures. Chad rewards travelers seeking authentic, uncrowded African experiences off the mainstream tourist path.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help 24/7Ready to Explore Chad?
Discover Africa's last frontier with confidence using DoVisa
Apply NowOr apply via our mobile app
