Get Your Cote d'Ivoire Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and cultural exploration in the heart of West Africa
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Cote d'Ivoire Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and intended activities in Cote d'Ivoire. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Ivorian immigration requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, and travel itinerary. Our visa specialists review every document against Cote d'Ivoire immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Cote d'Ivoire's official visa processing system. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved Cote d'Ivoire eVisa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Ivorian immigration along with your passport. Bienvenue en Cote d'Ivoire — welcome to the land of elephants and cocoa!
Visa types needed for Côte d'Ivoire
Ivory Coast eVisa - 90 days, Multiple entry
The Côte d'Ivoire eVisa provides access to Abidjan's modern skyline, Grand-Bassam heritage, and diverse landscapes. Valid for 90 Days with multiple entry, this visa allows stays up to 90 days. Perfect for tourism and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
Cote d'Ivoire Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel and cultural exploration
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers passing through Abidjan
eVisa
Up to 90 days
Electronic visa for pre-approved travel
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter required
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Transit Visas
Cote d'Ivoire operates an electronic visa system that has modernized entry for international visitors seeking to explore West Africa's most economically vibrant nation. The eVisa program simplifies travel for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers from around the world.
Tourist Visa
The standard Cote d'Ivoire tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days — ideal for exploring the country's diverse attractions from the modern skyline of Abidjan to the historic mosques of Kong and the pristine beaches along the Atlantic coast. This visa type suits leisure travelers, cultural explorers, and those visiting the world's largest basilica in Yamoussoukro. You can engage in tourism activities, visit friends and family, and attend non-commercial events.
Transit Visa
For travelers connecting through Felix Houphouet-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) in Abidjan en route to other destinations, Cote d'Ivoire offers a transit visa allowing stays up to 72 hours. This is ideal for passengers who want to exit the airport during long layovers to explore Abidjan's vibrant Plateau district, visit the Banco National Park, or experience local cuisine before continuing their journey.
Business & Special Visas
Business Visa
The Cote d'Ivoire business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the country. As the economic powerhouse of Francophone West Africa and the world's largest cocoa producer, Cote d'Ivoire attracts significant business interest. This visa is suitable for attending business meetings, trade fairs, and conferences; exploring investment opportunities in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing; establishing trade contacts; conducting market research; and negotiating contracts.
Multiple-Entry Options
Frequent travelers can apply for multiple-entry visas valid for 6 months or 1 year, allowing unlimited entries during the validity period. This is particularly valuable for business travelers with ongoing projects, investors monitoring operations, or those with family connections in Cote d'Ivoire. Each stay is typically limited to 90 days, but you can exit and re-enter as needed.
ECOWAS Regional Travel
Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries enjoy visa-free access to Cote d'Ivoire for stays up to 90 days. This regional integration facilitates business and tourism across West Africa.
Entry Requirements
Essential Requirements
All Cote d'Ivoire visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Mandatory for all travelers entering Cote d'Ivoire, regardless of your country of origin. The International Certificate of Vaccination must be presented at immigration. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter if staying with friends/family
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Cote d'Ivoire
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay (bank statements recommended)
Visa-Free Countries
Several countries enjoy visa-free access to Cote d'Ivoire, including ECOWAS member states and select diplomatic passport holders. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa on arrival under specific conditions.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Cote d'Ivoire eVisas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Felix Houphouet-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) in Abidjan is the main international gateway, handling the vast majority of international arrivals. Yamoussoukro Airport serves limited international flights to the political capital.
• Land borders: Official crossings with Ghana (Elubo-Noe), Burkina Faso (multiple points), Mali, Guinea, and Liberia. Land borders may have limited hours and facilities.
• Seaports: Port of Abidjan (Africa's largest container port) and Port of San Pedro.
Processing Times & Application Timing
Standard eVisa processing takes 3-5 business days, though most applications receive decisions within 72 hours. During peak travel periods and around major holidays, processing may take slightly longer. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests.
Travel Tips
French is the official language, though local languages like Dioula are widely spoken. The West African CFA Franc (XOF) is the currency, pegged to the Euro. Abidjan operates on GMT (UTC+0) and is a major hub for regional flights across West Africa.
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
4.5Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Got my Cote d'Ivoire visa in just 4 days! The process was incredibly smooth and the support team answered all my questions in French. Highly recommend!"
"First time visiting West Africa and was nervous about the visa process. DoVisa made it completely stress-free. The Basilica in Yamoussoukro was breathtaking!"
"Applied on Tuesday, approved by Friday. The document checklist was super helpful and immigration at Abidjan airport was smooth with my printed visa."
"Business trip to Abidjan sorted quickly. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful for my company meetings. Professional service throughout."
"Great service overall. Processing took 5 days which was within the expected timeframe. Customer support kept me updated throughout. Will use again!"
"Needed a visa quickly for a family event. DoVisa processed everything efficiently and I had my approval in 3 days. The beaches at Grand-Bassam were amazing!"
"Family of 4 all needed visas for our Cote d'Ivoire holiday. DoVisa processed all applications together and everyone was approved on the same day. Excellent!"
"The French language support was very helpful. Easy to upload documents and track my application. Smooth entry at Abidjan airport."
"Excellent experience getting my business visa. The team understood the urgency and delivered. Abidjan is truly the Paris of West Africa!"
"Simple process from start to finish. The yellow fever vaccination reminder was helpful. Loved exploring the cocoa plantations and local markets!"
Cote d'Ivoire Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Cote d'Ivoire?
Cote d'Ivoire offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for leisure travel, cultural exploration, visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, beaches, and national parks. Business visa caters to commercial activities including meetings, conferences, investment exploration, and trade negotiations in Africa's cocoa capital. Transit visa permits stays up to 72 hours for travelers connecting through Abidjan. Multiple-entry visas are available for frequent travelers requiring regular access over 6-12 months. The right visa depends on your travel purpose, duration, and frequency of visits.
What is the Cote d'Ivoire eVisa and how does it work?
The Cote d'Ivoire eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows you to obtain visa approval before traveling. Instead of visiting an embassy or waiting at the border, you apply online, submit your documents digitally, and receive your approved visa via email. Process: Complete the online application with your travel details; upload your passport scan, photo, and supporting documents; pay the visa fee online; receive your approved eVisa as a PDF within 3-5 business days. At arrival: Print your eVisa and present it with your passport and yellow fever certificate at Ivorian immigration. The eVisa is valid for entry through all official ports including Abidjan airport, land borders, and seaports.
Who needs a visa to visit Cote d'Ivoire?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Cote d'Ivoire. Visa required: Citizens from North America, Europe, Asia, and most other regions must obtain a visa before travel. Visa-free countries: Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries can enter visa-free for stays up to 90 days. ECOWAS members include Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Benin, Togo, Niger, and others. Special arrangements: Some diplomatic and service passport holders may have different requirements. Recommendation: Always verify current requirements for your specific nationality before booking travel, as visa policies can change.
What documents are required for a Cote d'Ivoire visa?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum two blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months); completed application form with accurate travel details; Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for all travelers). Tourist visa additions: Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter), round-trip flight itinerary, travel insurance recommended, proof of sufficient funds. Business visa additions: Invitation letter from Ivorian company on letterhead, employer support letter, company registration documents, detailed business itinerary. Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long can I stay in Cote d'Ivoire with a tourist visa?
A standard Cote d'Ivoire tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days. The exact duration granted may vary based on your application and supporting documents — immigration officers make the final determination at entry. Extensions: If you need to stay longer, you can apply for an extension at the Direction de la Police des Etrangers et des Titres de Voyage in Abidjan before your visa expires. Extension requests require justification, proof of funds, and updated accommodation confirmation. Overstaying penalties: Remaining beyond your authorized stay is a serious offense that can result in fines, detention, and future visa difficulties. Always ensure you depart before your visa expires or obtain proper extension approval.
Can I extend my Cote d'Ivoire visa?
Yes, Cote d'Ivoire visas can be extended while in the country. Where to apply: Direction de la Police des Etrangers et des Titres de Voyage (Foreigners' Police) in Abidjan's Plateau district. Requirements: Valid passport with current visa, completed extension application, passport photographs, proof of sufficient funds for extended stay, accommodation confirmation, and the extension fee. Process: Applications are typically processed within 1-2 weeks. Important: Apply well before your current visa expires — overstaying is a serious offense. Extensions are discretionary and approval is not guaranteed. Alternative: For short trips to neighboring countries, you may exit and re-enter for a fresh stay period, though this requires meeting entry requirements again.
Can I work in Cote d'Ivoire with a tourist visa?
No, Cote d'Ivoire tourist visas do not permit employment. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, sightseeing, cultural visits, attending non-commercial events, and visiting friends and family. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings, conferences, and market research, but not paid employment or receiving salary from an Ivorian company. Legal employment requires a Cote d'Ivoire work permit (Carte de Sejour with work authorization), which involves employer sponsorship, proof the position cannot be filled locally, and extensive documentation. The process must be initiated before entering for work purposes. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans. Ivorian authorities conduct workplace inspections.
Do I need to print my Cote d'Ivoire eVisa?
Yes, you must print your Cote d'Ivoire eVisa and carry the physical document when traveling. Requirements: Print on A4 paper in color (black and white is acceptable but color preferred); ensure the QR code and all text are clearly legible; keep it with your passport throughout your journey. At immigration: Present your printed eVisa along with your passport and yellow fever vaccination certificate to the immigration officer. They will verify the visa electronically and stamp your passport. Backup: Save a digital copy on your phone and email as backup in case of loss, though the printed version is required. Important: Damaged or illegible printouts may cause delays — carry a clean, clear copy.
How long does Cote d'Ivoire visa processing take?
Standard Cote d'Ivoire eVisa processing takes 3-5 business days, with most applications receiving decisions within 72 hours. Factors affecting processing: Application completeness significantly impacts speed — applications with clear documents, correct photos, and accurate information process faster. Peak travel periods and major holidays may experience slightly longer processing. Business visas may take longer due to verification of invitation letters. Recommendations: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any additional information requests. Expedited processing: Urgent processing options may be available for an additional fee, typically delivering results within 24-48 hours.
What happens if my Cote d'Ivoire visa is rejected?
Cote d'Ivoire visa rejections are relatively uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete or unclear documentation; passport validity issues; photos not meeting specifications; missing yellow fever certificate; previous immigration violations; insufficient proof of accommodation or return travel; inadequate financial evidence. If rejected: You will receive notification that the application was unsuccessful. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues. There is no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered on their own merit. Prevention: Ensure documents are complete and clear; verify passport validity; provide comprehensive travel plans; include proof of funds; obtain yellow fever vaccination well before applying. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
Is yellow fever vaccination required for Cote d'Ivoire?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Cote d'Ivoire, regardless of your country of origin. This is not a conditional requirement like in some countries — it applies to everyone. Requirements: You must present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly called the yellow card, at immigration upon arrival. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival to be considered valid. Validity: Yellow fever vaccination provides lifetime protection — you do not need boosters under current WHO guidelines. Enforcement: Immigration officers strictly enforce this requirement. Travelers without valid proof may be denied entry, quarantined, or vaccinated at the airport (with associated delays and costs). Recommendation: Get vaccinated 2-4 weeks before departure at an authorized yellow fever vaccination center to ensure you have the certificate well before travel.
What is the best time to visit Cote d'Ivoire?
Cote d'Ivoire has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Best time overall: November-March (dry season): Minimal rainfall, comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring cities, beaches, and national parks. This period is perfect for visiting the Basilica in Yamoussoukro, Grand-Bassam beaches, and wildlife viewing in Comoe National Park. April-May and October-November (shoulder seasons): Brief rain showers but fewer tourists and lower prices. Landscapes are lush and green. June-September (rainy season): Heavy rainfall, especially in the south. Road travel can be difficult, but wildlife watching can be rewarding as animals congregate near water sources. Regional variations: The south (Abidjan, Grand-Bassam) receives more rainfall than the northern savanna regions. Events: Consider timing your visit for cultural festivals like the Fetes des Masques (Mask Festival) in Man region.
Do children need their own Cote d'Ivoire visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own Cote d'Ivoire visa. There are no family visas or provisions for children traveling on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; completed application with child's details; yellow fever vaccination certificate (required from age 9 months); parental consent documentation if traveling with only one parent or without parents. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own through the same process. Each child's visa is processed and issued separately. Fees: Children generally pay the same visa fees as adults. Tip: Apply for all family members together to ensure visas are processed at the same pace.
What currency is used in Cote d'Ivoire and can I use cards?
Cote d'Ivoire uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate. The same currency is used across UEMOA member countries (Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Benin, Togo, Niger, Guinea-Bissau). Cash recommendations: Euros convert easily and are preferred for exchange. US Dollars are accepted but may get slightly worse rates. Exchange at banks, authorized forex bureaus, or hotels. ATMs are available in Abidjan and major cities. Card acceptance: Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and modern supermarkets in Abidjan. Outside major urban areas, cash is essential. ATMs: Available in cities but can be unreliable. Notify your bank of travel plans. Mobile money: Orange Money and MTN Mobile Money are widely used locally. Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated — 10% in restaurants, small amounts for service staff.
Is Cote d'Ivoire safe for tourists?
Cote d'Ivoire is generally safe for tourists in main travel areas, with standard precautions advised. Safe areas: Abidjan (especially Cocody, Plateau, Zone 4), Yamoussoukro, Grand-Bassam, Assinie beaches, and established tourist circuits. These areas have reasonable infrastructure and police presence. Areas of caution: Some border regions and less-traveled areas may have elevated security advisories. Check current government travel advice. Practical advice: Use reputable hotels and tour operators; avoid displaying expensive items; keep valuables secure; use official taxis or ride-sharing apps in Abidjan; travel in groups when exploring unfamiliar areas; register with your embassy. Health considerations: Yellow fever vaccination mandatory; malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended; drink bottled water; ensure routine vaccinations are current. Language: French proficiency is very helpful as English is not widely spoken outside international business contexts.
Do I need a visa if I am just transiting through Abidjan?
Transit visa requirements depend on your specific circumstances. No visa required: If your layover is under 24 hours, you remain airside (don't exit through immigration), and you're connecting to an international flight, you typically don't need a transit visa. However, yellow fever vaccination is still required for all arrivals. Transit visa required: If you want to exit the airport during a layover (visit Abidjan, rest at a hotel), you need a transit visa allowing stays up to 72 hours. Also required if your layover exceeds 24 hours or you need to exit airside for any reason. Application: Apply through the eVisa system specifying transit visa; provide connecting flight details. Recommendation: If uncertain, apply for a transit visa to avoid complications. Immigration officers make final determinations.
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