Get Your Congo (Brazzaville) Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for wildlife adventures, business, and exploring the Congo River basin
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Congo (Brazzaville) Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Republic of the Congo embassy requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), recent passport-sized photographs, invitation letter or hotel booking, and proof of yellow fever vaccination. Our visa specialists review every document against Congo Immigration standards before submission.
3
We submit to Congo authorities
Your verified application is transmitted to the Republic of the Congo embassy or consulate. We monitor processing status and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa
Your approved Congo visa is affixed to your passport or issued as an approval letter. Collect your passport from the embassy or receive confirmation for visa on arrival. Bienvenue au Congo — welcome to the heart of Central Africa!
Congo (Brazzaville) Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For wildlife safaris and leisure travel
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For connecting through Congo airports
Visa on Arrival
Up to 30 days
Available for select nationalities at airports
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
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Transit Visas
The Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) welcomes visitors to experience its remarkable biodiversity, pristine rainforests, and the mighty Congo River. The country requires most nationalities to obtain a visa before arrival, though visa on arrival options exist for certain travelers.
Tourist Visa
The Congo tourist visa allows single or multiple entries with stays up to 90 days — ideal for wildlife expeditions to Odzala-Kokoua National Park, exploring the Congo River, visiting Brazzaville, and experiencing local culture. Tourist visas are typically processed within 5-10 business days when applied through an embassy or consulate. You must provide a detailed travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds.
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Congo-Brazzaville en route to other Central African destinations, transit visas allow stays up to 72 hours. This is suitable for passengers connecting through Maya-Maya International Airport (BZV) in Brazzaville or Pointe-Noire Airport who need to exit the airport during extended layovers. If remaining airside for connections under 24 hours, a transit visa may not be required — confirm with your airline.
Business & Special Visas
Business Visa
The Congo business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the country. This includes attending business meetings, exploring investment opportunities in the oil and gas sector, forestry, mining, and telecommunications; establishing trade contacts; and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and require an invitation letter from a Congolese company or organization, your company's registration documents, and a detailed business itinerary.
Visa on Arrival
Congo-Brazzaville offers visa on arrival for citizens of certain countries, including some African Union member states and diplomatic passport holders. This facility is available at Maya-Maya International Airport in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire Airport. Visa on arrival typically allows stays up to 30 days and requires proof of accommodation, return ticket, and yellow fever certificate. Fees are payable in cash (USD or EUR). Important: Confirm visa on arrival eligibility for your nationality before travel, as regulations change frequently.
Long-Stay & Work Visas
For extended stays beyond 90 days or employment purposes, different authorization is required. Work permits must be obtained through a Congolese employer and approved by the Ministry of Labor before arrival.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Essential Requirements
All Congo-Brazzaville visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for visa and entry stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Mandatory for all travelers regardless of origin country. The International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented at immigration. Vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Invitation letter: Required for business visitors (from Congolese company) or tourists staying with friends/family (from host with their ID)
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation for the duration of stay
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Congo
• Sufficient funds: Bank statements demonstrating financial means to support your stay
Additional Requirements by Purpose
Business visitors: Company registration documents, employer letter explaining business purpose, invitation on company letterhead. Journalists: Must obtain special accreditation from the Ministry of Communication before arrival. Researchers: Authorization from relevant ministry depending on research subject.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Congo-Brazzaville visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airports: Maya-Maya International Airport (BZV) in Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire Airport (PNR), Ollombo Airport, and Dolisie Airport
• Land borders: Crossings with Democratic Republic of Congo (via ferry from Kinshasa to Brazzaville), Gabon (at Ndendi and Mbinda), Cameroon, Central African Republic, and Cabinda (Angola)
• River ports: Port of Brazzaville (Congo River ferry from Kinshasa), Port of Pointe-Noire
Processing Times & Application Timing
Standard embassy visa processing takes 5-10 business days, though times can vary by embassy location and application completeness. Express processing may be available at some embassies for urgent travel at additional cost. During holiday periods and around major events, processing may take longer. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests.
Visa Collection
Visas are typically affixed as a sticker in your passport. You must collect your passport in person or arrange authorized collection from the embassy. Some embassies offer postal return for an additional fee. Verify visa details immediately upon collection — ensure dates, entry type, and personal information are correct.
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
96%Approval rate
"Excellent service for my Congo visa! The team helped me navigate the invitation letter requirements and my visa was approved in 8 days. Planning my gorilla trek now!"
"Was worried about the yellow fever certificate requirements but DoVisa provided clear guidance. Everything went smoothly at Maya-Maya airport. Highly recommend!"
"Business visa processed without issues. The team liaised with the embassy when additional documents were requested. Professional service throughout."
"Applied for our family of 4 visiting relatives in Brazzaville. DoVisa handled all applications together and kept us informed at every step. Merci beaucoup!"
"Wildlife photography trip to Odzala was a dream. DoVisa made the visa part stress-free so I could focus on planning the expedition. Saw amazing gorillas!"
"Processing took about 10 days which was within the expected timeframe. Document checklist was very helpful. Would use again for future trips."
"Second time using DoVisa for Congo. Consistent quality service and their French-speaking support was very helpful for clarifying requirements. Top notch!"
"Good communication throughout the process. Had to provide an additional bank statement but the team guided me through it quickly. Visa arrived on time."
"As a Congolese living abroad, I helped my colleagues get their visas through DoVisa. Professional service and they understand the local requirements perfectly."
"Research permit and visa for my conservation project sorted efficiently. DoVisa knew exactly what documentation the ministry would need. Invaluable help!"
Congo (Brazzaville) Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Congo (Brazzaville)?
The Republic of the Congo offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for leisure travel, wildlife expeditions, and visiting friends or family. Business visa permits commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and investment exploration for up to 90 days. Transit visa allows stays up to 72 hours for travelers passing through Congo to another destination. Visa on arrival is available for certain nationalities at major airports for stays up to 30 days. Work visa requires employer sponsorship and ministry approval for employment purposes. Diplomatic and official visas are available for government representatives. The appropriate visa type depends on your purpose of travel, intended duration, and nationality.
Do I need a visa to visit Congo (Brazzaville)?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter the Republic of the Congo. Visa-free access is limited to citizens of certain African countries with bilateral agreements, typically allowing stays of 30-90 days. Visa on arrival is available for select nationalities including some African Union member states and certain diplomatic passport holders at Maya-Maya International Airport (Brazzaville) and Pointe-Noire Airport. All other nationalities must obtain a visa in advance from a Congolese embassy or consulate. This includes citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, European Union countries, Canada, Australia, and most Asian nations. Requirements and eligible nationalities change periodically, so verify current regulations for your specific nationality before planning travel.
What documents are required for a Congo (Brazzaville) visa?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum two blank pages; two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background); completed visa application form; yellow fever vaccination certificate (International Certificate of Vaccination). Tourist visa: Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings), round-trip flight itinerary, invitation letter if staying with friends/family (with host's ID copy), bank statements showing sufficient funds. Business visa: Invitation letter from Congolese company on letterhead, employer support letter, company registration documents, detailed business itinerary. All applicants: May need travel insurance, additional photographs, and proof of onward travel. Documents should be clear scans or originals as specified by the embassy. Some embassies require documents to be notarized or apostilled.
How long does Congo (Brazzaville) visa processing take?
Congo visa processing times vary by embassy location and application type. Standard processing typically takes 5-10 business days at most embassies. Factors affecting processing time: Application completeness significantly impacts speed — incomplete applications face delays for additional documentation requests; embassy workload varies seasonally; business visas requiring company verification may take longer. Express processing may be available at some embassies for urgent travel at additional cost (typically 2-3 business days). Visa on arrival is processed immediately at the airport for eligible nationalities but requires having all documentation ready. Recommendations: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel; ensure all documents are complete and meet specifications; respond promptly to any embassy requests. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete.
Is yellow fever vaccination mandatory for Congo (Brazzaville)?
Yes, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers to the Republic of the Congo regardless of your country of origin. This is one of the strictest yellow fever requirements in Africa. Requirements: You must present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV, also known as the yellow card) showing yellow fever vaccination at immigration upon arrival. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival to be considered valid. Consequences: Travelers without valid yellow fever certificates may be denied entry, required to receive vaccination at the airport (if available) with associated delays and costs, or placed in quarantine. Vaccine validity: As of 2016, a single yellow fever vaccination is considered to provide lifetime protection under international health regulations. Action: Schedule your vaccination at a certified travel health clinic 2-4 weeks before departure. The clinic will issue your official ICV which you must carry with your passport.
Can I extend my Congo (Brazzaville) visa once I arrive?
Yes, visa extensions are possible in the Republic of the Congo but must be applied for before your current visa expires. Where to apply: Direction Generale de la Documentation et de l'Immigration in Brazzaville, or regional immigration offices in major cities like Pointe-Noire. Requirements: Valid passport with current visa, completed extension application form, passport photographs, proof of continued accommodation, justification for extension, and the extension fee. Processing: Extensions typically take 3-7 business days. You may receive a temporary receipt while the extension is processed. Maximum stay: Tourist visas can generally be extended for an additional 30-90 days depending on circumstances, with a typical maximum total stay of 180 days per year. Important: Apply well before your visa expires — overstaying is a serious offense resulting in fines, detention, and potential deportation with future entry bans. Extensions are discretionary and may be refused.
What is the best time to visit Congo (Brazzaville)?
Congo-Brazzaville has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons affecting wildlife viewing and travel conditions. Dry season (June-September): The best time for wildlife watching at Odzala-Kokoua National Park as animals congregate around water sources. Gorilla and elephant tracking is optimal. Roads are more passable, and forest walks are more comfortable. Lower humidity and fewer mosquitoes. Short dry season (December-February): Another good window for travel with reduced rainfall. Christmas and New Year are popular times. Wet season (October-November, March-May): Heavy rainfall makes some roads impassable, particularly in remote areas. However, the forest is lush and bird watching is excellent with migratory species present. Fewer tourists mean more exclusive experiences. Lower accommodation rates. Year-round: Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are accessible throughout the year. Average temperatures remain consistent at 25-30 degrees Celsius.
Can I work in Congo (Brazzaville) with a tourist or business visa?
No, tourist and business visas do not permit employment in the Republic of the Congo. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, wildlife expeditions, visiting family, and general tourism. Business visas allow commercial activities such as meetings, conferences, market research, and establishing trade contacts, but not paid employment or receiving salary from a Congolese entity. Legal employment requires a work permit (Autorisation de Travail) which involves: sponsorship by a registered Congolese employer; approval from the Ministry of Labor; extensive documentation including academic certificates, professional qualifications, and police clearance; and medical examination in Congo. The process takes 2-4 months and must be initiated before starting work. Penalties: Working illegally risks substantial fines, imprisonment, deportation, and future visa bans. Congo authorities conduct workplace inspections, particularly in the oil and gas sector where foreign workers are common.
What currency should I bring to Congo (Brazzaville)?
Congo-Brazzaville uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF), which is pegged to the Euro. Cash recommendations: Bring Euros or US Dollars for exchange — both are widely accepted for exchange at banks and official forex bureaus. Euros often get slightly better rates due to the currency peg. Carry CFA francs for everyday purchases, transportation, and smaller establishments. Exchange: Banks in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire offer exchange services. Major hotels may exchange currency but at less favorable rates. Avoid street money changers. Card acceptance: Very limited outside major hotels in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. Safari lodges and smaller establishments operate on cash only. Visa cards are more accepted than Mastercard. ATMs: Available in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire at major banks but can be unreliable. Daily withdrawal limits apply. Recommendations: Bring sufficient cash for your trip, especially if visiting remote areas like Odzala. Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks.
Is Congo (Brazzaville) safe for tourists?
Congo-Brazzaville is generally safe for tourists in main tourist areas and cities when taking standard precautions. Safe areas: Brazzaville city center, Pointe-Noire, established safari lodges at Odzala-Kokoua National Park, and organized tour routes. Areas requiring caution: The Pool region south of Brazzaville has experienced periodic instability — check current advisories. Border areas with DRC and CAR warrant caution. Some Brazzaville neighborhoods are best avoided at night. General safety: Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occurs in urban areas — remain vigilant in markets and crowded places. Use registered taxis and reputable tour operators. Avoid displaying expensive items. Health considerations: Malaria prophylaxis is essential; yellow fever vaccination mandatory; drink only bottled water; comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Safari safety: Odzala-Kokoua Park has well-established safety protocols for gorilla and wildlife tracking. Always follow guide instructions around wildlife.
What is the difference between Congo-Brazzaville and the DRC?
The two Congos are separate, sovereign nations that share a name and border but have distinct identities, governments, and visa requirements. Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville): Capital is Brazzaville, country code CG, population approximately 5.5 million, official language French, currency CFA Franc (XAF). Former French colony, gained independence in 1960. Known for Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Congo River, and oil industry. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC/Congo-Kinshasa): Capital is Kinshasa, country code CD, population approximately 100 million (much larger), official language French, currency Congolese Franc (CDF). Former Belgian colony, gained independence in 1960. Known for Virunga National Park, mountain gorillas, vast mineral resources. Key distinction: Brazzaville and Kinshasa face each other across the Congo River and are the world's closest national capitals. Visas: Each country requires separate visas — a Congo-Brazzaville visa does not permit entry to DRC and vice versa.
Do I need to print my Congo (Brazzaville) visa?
Unlike some countries with fully electronic visa systems, Congo-Brazzaville visas are typically physical visa stickers affixed to your passport. Embassy visas: Collected in person from the embassy or consulate, the visa is placed as a sticker in your passport. No printing required as you present the physical visa page to immigration. Approval letters: If you receive a visa approval letter for visa on arrival, this must be printed on A4 paper and presented along with your passport and other documents at the airport visa counter. Visa on arrival: No pre-printing required as the visa is issued on the spot, but have printed copies of your hotel booking, return flight, and invitation letter ready. General advice: Always carry printed copies of your flight itinerary, hotel confirmations, and invitation letter regardless of visa type. Immigration officials may request these. Ensure your yellow fever certificate is the original document, not a copy. Keep digital backups of all documents on your phone.
What if my Congo (Brazzaville) visa application is rejected?
Congo visa rejections, while uncommon for well-prepared applications, can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; photos not meeting specifications; missing or invalid yellow fever certificate; insufficient proof of funds; unclear purpose of visit; missing invitation letter for business travel; previous immigration violations. If rejected: The embassy typically provides limited explanation. You can request clarification and reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues. There is no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered independently. Prevention strategies: Ensure all documents are complete before submission; verify passport has sufficient validity and blank pages; obtain yellow fever vaccination well in advance; provide comprehensive travel plans; include proof of accommodation and return flights; show sufficient financial means. DoVisa support: Our pre-submission review catches common errors. If rejection results from our processing error, we provide assistance with reapplication.
Can I visit Odzala-Kokoua National Park with a tourist visa?
Yes, a standard tourist visa permits visits to Odzala-Kokoua National Park, one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas. Park access: The park is managed by African Parks and accessible via charter flights from Brazzaville to airstrips within the park, or by a combination of road and river travel (significantly longer). Booking requirements: Advance booking through authorized lodges (Ngaga Camp, Lango Camp, Mboko Camp) is essential — you cannot visit independently. Lodges arrange permits, guides, and all activities. Activities: Western lowland gorilla tracking, forest elephant viewing, forest buffalo observation, birdwatching (400+ species), forest walks, and boat trips on the Lekoli River. Permits: Gorilla tracking permits are included in lodge packages but limited — book 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak dry season. Additional requirements: Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is mandatory; the park is remote with basic medical facilities. Your lodge will provide detailed packing lists and health guidance.
How do I travel between Brazzaville and Kinshasa (DRC)?
Brazzaville (Congo-Brazzaville) and Kinshasa (DRC) are separated only by the Congo River and connected by regular ferry services, but require separate visas for each country. Ferry crossing: Public ferries and speedboats operate between the two capitals, taking 15-30 minutes. Departure points are the Beach port in Brazzaville and Gombe port in Kinshasa. Visa requirements: You need valid visas for both countries. A Congo-Brazzaville visa does not permit entry to DRC. Apply for DRC visa at their embassy before travel or check if you qualify for DRC visa on arrival. Immigration process: Exit immigration in your departure country, cross by ferry, then enter immigration in the arrival country. Process can take several hours including waiting times. Practical tips: Carry all documents including hotel bookings for both countries; keep yellow fever certificate accessible; have local currency for both countries; use official ferry services only; arrive early for crossings. Day trips: Technically possible but time-consuming — most travelers stay overnight in each city.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help 24/7Ready to Explore Congo (Brazzaville)?
Discover pristine rainforests, the mighty Congo River, and incredible wildlife
Apply NowOr apply via our mobile app
