Get Your Guinea-Bissau Visa Online
Fast visa processing for the Bijagos Archipelago, pristine beaches, and authentic African adventures
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Guinea-Bissau Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-7 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details and travel plans for Guinea-Bissau. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Guinea-Bissau immigration requirements.
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 Guinea-Bissau Immigration standards before submission.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is submitted to Guinea-Bissau immigration authorities. We monitor processing status and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved Guinea-Bissau visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly and present it at immigration along with your passport. Bem-vindo — welcome to one of West Africa's most unspoiled destinations!
Guinea-Bissau Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel and exploring the Bijagos
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Visa on Arrival
Up to 30 days
Available at Bissau Airport for select nationalities
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers passing through Guinea-Bissau
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 & Transit Visas
Guinea-Bissau welcomes visitors from around the world to experience one of West Africa's most untouched destinations. The country offers several visa options for tourists seeking to explore the stunning Bijagos Archipelago, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity.
Tourist Visa
The standard Guinea-Bissau tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days — perfect for exploring the Bijagos Islands, visiting national parks, experiencing local culture, and enjoying the country's beautiful coastline. This visa suits leisure travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking authentic African experiences away from mass tourism. The 90-day period provides ample time to island-hop through the Bijagos, visit Bissau's historic Portuguese colonial architecture, and explore the mangrove-lined rivers.
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Guinea-Bissau en route to other destinations, a transit visa allows stays up to 72 hours. This is ideal for those connecting through Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau or crossing land borders to Senegal or Guinea. Transit visas provide flexibility for brief stopovers to experience Bissau before continuing your journey through West Africa.
Business & Special Visas
Business Visa
The Guinea-Bissau business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the country. This includes attending business meetings, exploring investment opportunities in agriculture or fishing, establishing trade contacts, and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and can be issued for single or multiple entries. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from a Guinea-Bissau company, your company's registration documents, and a detailed business itinerary.
Visa on Arrival
Citizens of certain countries may obtain a visa on arrival at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau. This option allows stays up to 30 days and is available for tourism purposes. However, due to the limited infrastructure and potential for delays, we recommend obtaining your visa in advance through our service to ensure smooth entry. Visa on arrival requires proof of accommodation, return flight, and sufficient funds.
ECOWAS Citizens
Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries enjoy visa-free entry to Guinea-Bissau for stays up to 90 days. This includes nationals from Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, and other West African nations.
Entry Requirements
Essential Requirements
All Guinea-Bissau 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 arriving in Guinea-Bissau. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) 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, tour operator reservation, or invitation letter if staying with friends/family
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Guinea-Bissau
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay — bank statements showing approximately $50-75 per day recommended
Health Considerations
Beyond yellow fever vaccination, travelers should consider malaria prophylaxis as Guinea-Bissau is in a high-risk malaria zone. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice on vaccinations and preventive medications.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Guinea-Bissau visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airport: Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB) in Bissau — the main international gateway
• Land borders: Pirada and Buruntuma (border with Senegal), Kandika and Foulamory (border with Guinea)
• Seaports: Port of Bissau, various ports in the Bijagos Archipelago
Processing Times & Application Timing
Standard visa processing takes 5-10 business days, though most applications receive decisions within one week. During peak travel periods and around local holidays, processing may take slightly longer. We recommend applying at least 3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests.
Arrival Tips
Osvaldo Vieira International Airport is small but functional. Immigration procedures are straightforward with proper documentation. Keep your visa approval, passport, yellow fever certificate, and accommodation details readily accessible. The airport has limited facilities, so arrange airport transfers in advance with your hotel or tour operator. Currency exchange is available but bringing Euros or US Dollars to exchange at local banks often provides better rates.
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 Guinea-Bissau visa without any issues. The team was very helpful explaining the yellow fever certificate requirements. The Bijagos Islands were absolutely worth it!"
"Excellent service for a destination that's quite difficult to get visa information for. DoVisa made the whole process straightforward and stress-free."
"Processing took about a week which was as expected. Good communication throughout. My trip to the Bijagos was incredible!"
"As a wildlife photographer, getting my visa sorted quickly was essential. DoVisa delivered and I got amazing shots of the saltwater hippos in Orango!"
"Helpful customer service answered all my questions about entering from Senegal. The land border crossing was smooth with my pre-approved visa."
"First time visiting a Portuguese-speaking African country. DoVisa support in Portuguese was a huge help. Loved Guinea-Bissau's authentic culture!"
"Applied for a business visa for a fishing industry meeting. All documentation requirements were clearly explained. Very professional service."
"The visa process was much easier than I expected for such an off-the-beaten-path destination. Guinea-Bissau exceeded all my expectations!"
"Great experience from start to finish. The Bijagos Archipelago is a hidden gem and DoVisa made getting there hassle-free."
"Recommended by a friend who also used DoVisa. Quick processing and excellent customer support. Will definitely use again for future travels."
Guinea-Bissau Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for leisure travel, exploring the Bijagos Archipelago, visiting national parks, and experiencing local culture. Business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities including meetings, investment exploration, and trade negotiations. Transit visa permits stays up to 72 hours for travelers passing through to other destinations. Visa on arrival is available at Bissau Airport for citizens of certain countries, allowing stays up to 30 days. The right visa depends on your nationality, travel purpose, and intended length of stay.
What is a Guinea-Bissau tourist visa and how long is it valid?
The Guinea-Bissau tourist visa is the most common visa type for leisure travelers. It allows single or multiple entries depending on the specific visa issued, with stays permitted up to 90 days. This visa is perfect for exploring the Bijagos Archipelago, visiting Orango Islands National Park, experiencing Bissau's colonial heritage, and enjoying the country's pristine beaches and rich wildlife. The visa validity period (time to use the visa) is typically 3-6 months from the issue date, while the permitted stay (time in country) is up to 90 days per entry. Extensions may be possible through the Immigration Service in Bissau.
Who needs a visa to visit Guinea-Bissau?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Guinea-Bissau. Visa required: Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, European Union countries, Australia, Canada, and most Asian and South American nations need to obtain a visa before travel or on arrival. Visa-free entry: Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days — this includes Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Nigeria, Ghana, and other West African nations. Visa on arrival: Available for certain nationalities at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, though we recommend obtaining your visa in advance for smoother entry. Check specific requirements for your nationality before travel.
What documents are required for a Guinea-Bissau 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); completed application form with accurate travel details; International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever. Additional requirements: Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); round-trip flight itinerary showing entry and exit; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements recommended); travel insurance is strongly recommended. Business visa: Invitation letter from Guinea-Bissau company on letterhead, employer support letter, company registration documents, and detailed business itinerary. Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
How long can I stay in Guinea-Bissau with a tourist visa?
A standard Guinea-Bissau tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days. This provides ample time to explore the country's main attractions including the Bijagos Archipelago, Orango Islands National Park, Bissau city, and the beautiful coastline. If you require a longer stay, you may apply for an extension at the Immigration Service (Servico de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) in Bissau before your current visa expires. Extension approval is discretionary and typically requires showing proof of accommodation, funds, and a valid reason for extended stay. For visits under 30 days, visa on arrival may be available depending on your nationality.
Can I extend my Guinea-Bissau visa once I arrive?
Yes, Guinea-Bissau visa extensions are possible but must be applied for before your current visa expires. Where to apply: Immigration Service (Servico de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) in Bissau. Requirements: Valid passport, current visa, passport photographs, proof of accommodation for extended period, sufficient funds, completed extension application form, and extension fee. Process: Applications are processed within 1-2 weeks; plan accordingly. Important: Overstaying your visa is a serious offense that can result in fines, detention, and difficulties with future travel. If you anticipate needing more time, apply for extension well before your visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities.
Can I work in Guinea-Bissau with a tourist visa?
No, Guinea-Bissau tourist visas do not permit employment. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities including sightseeing, visiting the Bijagos Islands, attending cultural events, and visiting friends or family. Business visas allow commercial activities like meetings, negotiations, and exploring investment opportunities, but not paid employment or receiving salary from a local employer. Legal employment requires a work permit, which involves employer sponsorship, proof the position cannot be filled locally, and extensive documentation. The process must be initiated before entering Guinea-Bissau for work purposes. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans.
Do I need to print my Guinea-Bissau visa?
Yes, you should print your Guinea-Bissau visa approval document. While immigration officials may be able to verify your visa electronically, having a clearly printed copy ensures smooth processing at border control. Recommendations: Print on A4 paper in color if possible; carry multiple copies in case of loss or damage; keep a digital copy on your phone as backup; store copies separately from your passport. At immigration, present your printed visa along with your passport, yellow fever certificate, and any other required documentation. Airport immigration facilities in Guinea-Bissau can be basic, so having all physical documents ready prevents potential delays.
How long does Guinea-Bissau visa processing take?
Guinea-Bissau visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days, with most applications receiving decisions within one week. Processing times can vary based on: Application completeness — applications with clear documents and accurate information process faster; Time of year — periods around major holidays may experience delays; Visa type — business visas may require additional verification of invitation letters. Recommendations: Apply at least 3 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any requests for additional information. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete, reducing the risk of delays.
What happens if my Guinea-Bissau visa application is rejected?
Guinea-Bissau visa rejections are uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; photos not meeting specifications; missing yellow fever certificate; concerns about purpose of visit; insufficient proof of accommodation or return travel; inadequate financial evidence. If rejected: You can reapply immediately with improved documentation addressing the issues. There's no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered on their own merit. Prevention: Ensure yellow fever certificate is valid; provide clear, complete documents; include comprehensive travel plans with accommodation and return flights; show proof of funds. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
When is the best time to visit Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. November-May (Dry Season): The best time to visit with minimal rainfall, lower humidity, and more comfortable temperatures. This period is ideal for exploring the Bijagos Islands, wildlife watching, and beach activities. Sea conditions are calmer for island-hopping. June-October (Wet Season): Heavy rainfall, particularly July-September, can make travel difficult. Some roads become impassable and boat services to islands may be limited. However, landscapes are lush and green, and this is nesting season for sea turtles. Peak wildlife viewing: December-April for bird watching and spotting the unique saltwater hippos in Orango. Cultural events: Carnival in February/March offers vibrant celebrations.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Guinea-Bissau?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Guinea-Bissau, regardless of where you're traveling from. You must present your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) at immigration upon arrival. Requirements: The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival to be considered valid. The certificate provides lifetime protection and doesn't need to be renewed. Where to get vaccinated: Visit an authorized yellow fever vaccination center or travel health clinic in your country. They will issue the official International Certificate of Vaccination. Important: Entry will be denied without valid proof of yellow fever vaccination. Additionally, consider malaria prophylaxis as Guinea-Bissau is in a high-risk malaria zone. Consult a travel health professional 4-6 weeks before departure.
What are the main attractions in Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau offers unique attractions for adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences. Bijagos Archipelago: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve comprising 88 islands with pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and traditional cultures — the highlight of any visit. Orango Islands National Park: Home to the world's only population of saltwater hippos, plus sea turtles, rare birds, and mangrove ecosystems. Bissau: The capital features Portuguese colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and the historic Fortaleza d'Amura. Varela Beach: One of West Africa's most beautiful beaches near the Senegal border. Cantanhez Forest National Park: Dense tropical forest with chimpanzees and diverse birdlife. Cultural experiences: Traditional ceremonies, local cuisine, and authentic village life away from mass tourism.
Is Guinea-Bissau safe for tourists?
Guinea-Bissau is generally safe for tourists in popular areas, though standard precautions apply. Safe areas: Bissau city center, Bijagos Islands, established tourist routes, and major hotels. These areas see regular tourist visitors and have basic security infrastructure. Practical advice: Use reputable tour operators, especially for Bijagos visits; avoid walking alone at night in Bissau; keep valuables secure; respect local customs and traditions; register with your embassy's travel notification service; ensure comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation. Health considerations: Malaria prophylaxis is essential; drink bottled water; ensure routine vaccinations are current; yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Infrastructure: Roads outside Bissau are often unpaved and challenging; boat transfers to islands require advance planning.
What currency is used in Guinea-Bissau and can I use cards?
Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is pegged to the Euro. Cash is essential: Guinea-Bissau has limited banking infrastructure and credit card acceptance is rare outside major hotels in Bissau. ATMs exist in Bissau but may not always work with international cards. Recommendations: Bring Euros or US Dollars to exchange locally; exchange at banks in Bissau for best rates; carry enough cash for your entire trip, especially for Bijagos visits; smaller denominations are useful for markets and transport. Island travel: The Bijagos Islands operate almost entirely on cash — ensure you have sufficient funds before island-hopping. Budget: Guinea-Bissau is relatively affordable by Western standards; budget $50-100 per day depending on accommodation level and activities.
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