Get Your Gabon Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for rainforest adventures, gorilla tracking, and coastal exploration
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Gabon Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-7 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, travel plans, and intended activities in Gabon. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, ensuring your application meets Gabonese immigration requirements and checking for common errors.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, and yellow fever vaccination certificate. Our visa specialists review every document against Gabonese immigration standards before submission to minimize rejection risk.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Gabonese immigration authorities. We monitor processing status continuously and communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS notifications.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved Gabon eVisa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Gabonese immigration along with your passport. Bienvenue au Gabon — welcome to one of Africa's last great wilderness frontiers!
Gabon Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Single entry for wildlife and eco-tourism
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For connecting through Gabonese airports
eVisa
Up to 30 days
Electronic visa for eligible nationalities
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
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & eVisa Options
Gabon has modernized its visa system to welcome travelers seeking authentic African wilderness experiences. As one of the continent's most biodiverse nations, with over 80% of its territory covered by rainforest, Gabon offers unique opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife observation.
Tourist Visa — Single Entry
The standard Gabon tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days — ideal for exploring national parks, tracking western lowland gorillas, observing forest elephants, and relaxing on pristine Atlantic beaches. This visa type suits eco-tourists, wildlife photographers, and adventure travelers visiting Gabon's 13 national parks. You can engage in tourism activities, visit research stations, and participate in guided wildlife experiences.
eVisa System
Gabon introduced its electronic visa system to streamline entry for international visitors. The eVisa allows stays of up to 30 days and can be applied for entirely online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy. Eligible nationalities can receive approval within 5-7 business days. For longer stays or multiple entries, the traditional embassy visa process remains available.
Business & Transit Visas
Business Visa
Gabon's growing oil, mining, and timber industries attract business travelers from around the world. The business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities including attending business meetings, exploring investment opportunities in natural resources, establishing trade contacts, and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and require an invitation letter from a Gabonese company or organization.
Transit Visa
For travelers connecting through Leon Mba International Airport in Libreville en route to other Central African destinations, Gabon offers a transit visa allowing stays up to 72 hours. This is useful for passengers who want to exit the airport during extended layovers to explore the capital city or rest at a hotel before continuing their journey.
Multiple Entry Options
Frequent visitors to Gabon can apply for multiple-entry visas valid for 6-12 months. These are particularly valuable for business travelers, researchers working with conservation organizations, and those with ongoing projects in the country.
Entry Requirements
Essential Requirements
All Gabon 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 and exit stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Mandatory for all travelers regardless of origin country. The International Certificate of Vaccination must be presented at immigration. 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, eco-lodge reservations, or invitation letter if staying with contacts
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Gabon
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay (bank statements recommended)
Additional Considerations
Gabon takes environmental protection seriously. Visitors to national parks may need additional permits. Some protected areas require advance booking through authorized tour operators. Research permits are mandatory for scientific activities.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Gabon visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Leon Mba International Airport (LBV) in Libreville is the main international gateway. Port-Gentil Airport serves the oil industry hub. Franceville Mvengue Airport provides access to eastern Gabon.
• Land borders: Crossings with Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Republic of Congo. Popular routes include Bitam (Cameroon border) and Mitzic-Woleu (Equatorial Guinea).
• Seaports: Port of Libreville and Port-Gentil for maritime arrivals.
Processing Times & Application Timing
Standard eVisa processing takes 5-7 business days, though some applications may receive faster decisions. Embassy visa processing typically requires 10-15 business days. We recommend applying at least 3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests. Peak periods around major international conferences or events may experience longer processing times.
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
97%Approval rate
"Got my Gabon visa approved in 6 days! The process was straightforward and the team helped me understand the yellow fever requirements. Excellent service for a unique destination."
"Visited Lope National Park to see gorillas and the visa process with DoVisa was seamless. They even helped coordinate my park permits. Unforgettable trip!"
"Business visa for Port-Gentil sorted efficiently. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Processing took about a week as expected."
"Amazing experience from start to finish. DoVisa made getting a Gabon visa easy. Now I can say I've seen forest elephants on a beach in Loango!"
"Wildlife photography trip to Gabon was incredible. The visa was the easy part thanks to DoVisa. Clear instructions and fast response to my questions."
"First time traveling to Central Africa. DoVisa guided me through everything including vaccination requirements. Very professional service."
"Research visa for conservation work processed smoothly. The team understood the unique requirements for scientific travel to Gabon. Highly recommend!"
"Couple's adventure trip to see gorillas in the wild. Both visas approved together and the support team was responsive to all our questions about travel insurance."
"Good service for a less common destination. Had to provide a few extra documents but the team walked me through it. Visa arrived as promised."
"Eco-tourism trip to Gabon was life-changing. The visa application was the easiest part. DoVisa knows their stuff when it comes to African visas!"
Gabon Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Gabon?
Gabon offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for leisure travel, wildlife viewing, and eco-tourism. eVisa provides electronic authorization for shorter stays up to 30 days for eligible nationalities. Business visa caters to commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and investment exploration. Transit visa permits stays up to 72 hours for travelers connecting through Gabonese airports. 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 nationality.
What is the Gabon eVisa and who can apply?
The Gabon eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible travelers to apply for a visa entirely online without visiting an embassy. Valid for stays up to 30 days, the eVisa is processed electronically within 5-7 business days. Eligible nationalities include citizens of many European, North American, and Asian countries. Benefits: No embassy visit required; apply from anywhere with internet access; receive your visa via email; print and present at immigration. Limitations: Single entry only; maximum 30-day stay; must enter within 90 days of issuance. For longer stays or multiple entries, the traditional embassy visa process is required.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Gabon?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers to Gabon, regardless of your country of origin. This is one of the strictest requirements in Africa. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) — the yellow card — at immigration upon arrival. Timing: The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival to be valid. Validity: As of 2016, yellow fever vaccination provides lifetime protection according to WHO guidelines, so you only need one dose. Where to get vaccinated: Authorized travel health clinics and some hospitals can administer the vaccine and issue the international certificate. Important: Without valid proof of vaccination, you may be denied entry or required to be vaccinated at the airport at your expense.
How long does Gabon visa processing take?
Processing times vary by visa type and application method. eVisa: 5-7 business days for electronic processing. Embassy visa: 10-15 business days for standard processing. Factors affecting timing: Application completeness, supporting document quality, peak travel periods, and any requests for additional information. Recommendations: Apply at least 3 weeks before travel for standard processing; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any queries. Express processing: Some embassies offer expedited services for urgent travel needs at additional cost. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete, reducing the risk of delays.
What documents do I need for a Gabon visa application?
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); yellow fever vaccination certificate; completed application form; proof of accommodation; return flight itinerary. Tourist visa additions: Detailed travel itinerary including national park reservations if applicable; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately $100/day). Business visa additions: Invitation letter from Gabonese company on official letterhead; employer support letter; company registration documents; detailed business purpose statement. Format: Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long can I stay in Gabon with a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days — sufficient for comprehensive exploration of Gabon's national parks, beaches, and cultural sites. eVisa holders can stay up to 30 days per entry. Extension options: Visa extensions may be possible by applying at the Direction Generale de la Documentation et de l'Immigration in Libreville before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and require valid reasons, proof of funds, and accommodation. Important: Overstaying is a serious offense resulting in fines, detention, and potential future visa bans. Plan your itinerary to depart before visa expiration.
Can I extend my Gabon visa once I arrive?
Visa extensions are possible but not guaranteed. Where to apply: Direction Generale de la Documentation et de l'Immigration in Libreville. Requirements: Valid passport with remaining pages; completed extension form; passport photographs; proof of sufficient funds; accommodation confirmation; valid reason for extension; extension fee. Process: Submit application before current visa expires; processing takes 5-10 business days; you receive a receipt while waiting. Approval factors: Extensions are discretionary; valid reasons include ongoing business negotiations, medical treatment, or documented travel disruptions. Tip: If you anticipate needing more time, apply for a longer visa initially rather than relying on extensions.
Can I work in Gabon with a tourist visa?
No, Gabon tourist visas do not permit any form of employment or paid work. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, wildlife viewing, eco-tourism, visiting friends or family, and attending non-commercial events. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings and negotiations but not paid employment. Working legally in Gabon requires a work permit sponsored by a Gabonese employer, involving extensive documentation and government approval. This process must be initiated before entering for work purposes. Volunteer work: Even unpaid volunteer activities typically require specific authorization. Conservation organizations operating in Gabon can advise on proper permits. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans.
Do I need to print my Gabon eVisa?
Yes, you must print your approved Gabon eVisa. Immigration officers at entry points require a physical printout to verify and stamp. Requirements: Print on standard A4 paper in black and white or color; ensure the QR code and all text are clearly legible; carry multiple copies in case of damage or requests at different checkpoints. At immigration: Present your printed eVisa along with your passport, yellow fever certificate, and return ticket. Officers will verify the visa, stamp your passport, and may ask about your travel plans. Digital copies: While having a digital backup on your phone is recommended, it does not replace the printed version for entry purposes.
What are the best national parks to visit in Gabon?
Gabon's 13 national parks protect some of Africa's most pristine ecosystems. Lope National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Best for gorilla and mandrill tracking in a unique savanna-forest mosaic. Loango National Park: Famous for forest elephants, hippos, and buffalo on beaches; excellent whale watching (July-September). Ivindo National Park: Features spectacular waterfalls and excellent gorilla habituation programs. Moukalaba-Doudou: Growing reputation for gorilla tracking with fewer visitors. Pongara National Park: Close to Libreville; sea turtle nesting (November-February) and mangrove ecosystems. Permits: Most parks require advance booking through authorized operators; gorilla permits have limited daily availability.
When is the best time to visit Gabon?
Gabon's equatorial climate means year-round warmth and humidity, but timing affects wildlife viewing and accessibility. Dry Season (June-September): Best overall period with lower rainfall, easier road conditions, and excellent wildlife viewing as animals concentrate near water. Ideal for gorilla tracking and forest hikes. Minor Dry Season (December-February): Good secondary window with less rainfall than wet months. Wet Season (October-November, March-May): Heavy rainfall makes some roads impassable; lush forest scenery; fewer tourists; some lodges close. Special events: Whale watching peaks July-September; sea turtles nest November-February; mandrill gatherings largest in dry season. Temperature: Consistent 24-30°C year-round with high humidity.
Is Gabon safe for tourists?
Gabon is considered one of the safer countries in Central Africa for tourists, though standard precautions apply. Safe areas: Libreville (tourist and business districts), established national parks with guides, coastal resorts, and official tourism circuits. General safety: Violent crime against tourists is rare; petty theft can occur in urban areas. Practical advice: Use registered guides for national park visits; avoid displaying valuable items; don't walk alone at night in cities; carry copies of documents separately from originals; use hotel safes. Health considerations: Malaria prophylaxis essential; drink bottled water only; ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Wildlife safety: Always follow guide instructions around gorillas, elephants, and other wildlife.
What currency should I bring to Gabon?
Gabon uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF), which is pegged to the Euro. Best currencies to bring: Euros are most easily exchanged and sometimes accepted directly; US Dollars are also accepted but at less favorable rates. Exchange options: Banks in Libreville and major towns; some hotels exchange currency; airport exchange offices (higher fees). ATMs: Available in Libreville and larger towns; international cards (Visa more widely accepted than Mastercard) generally work but can be unreliable. Cash dependency: Many places outside Libreville are cash-only; bring sufficient CFA francs for national park visits and rural areas. Credit cards: Accepted at upscale hotels, some restaurants in Libreville, and tour operators; not widely accepted elsewhere.
Do children need their own Gabon visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own Gabon visa. There are no family visas or provisions for children on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; yellow fever vaccination certificate; completed application with child's details; 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. Fees: Children pay the same visa fees as adults. Yellow fever: Children over 9 months old must have yellow fever vaccination; consult a travel health clinic for guidance on infants.
What happens if my Gabon visa application is rejected?
Gabon visa rejections can occur but are not common for properly prepared applications. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; photographs not meeting specifications; missing yellow fever certificate; insufficient proof of funds or accommodation; unclear travel purpose. If rejected: You may receive brief notification without detailed reasons; you can reapply with improved documentation; there is no formal appeals process. Prevention: Ensure all documents are complete and clear; verify passport validity; provide comprehensive travel plans; include bank statements; ensure yellow fever certificate is valid. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
Can I visit other Central African countries with my Gabon visa?
A Gabon visa is only valid for Gabon — you cannot use it to enter neighboring countries. Nearby destinations requiring separate visas: Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sao Tome and Principe all require their own visa applications. Multi-country planning: If planning a Central African circuit, apply for each country's visa separately and coordinate timing carefully. Some nationalities may require pre-arranged visas from embassies. CEMAC considerations: While Gabon is part of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC), there is no regional tourism visa like the East African option. Border crossings: Gabon has land borders with Cameroon (north), Equatorial Guinea (northwest), and Republic of Congo (east and south) — each requires proper documentation for the destination country.
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