Republic of Benin Travel Update

The Benin e-Visa Entry rules in response to COVID-19

Entry visas are restricted. Entry and exit at border crossings is limited to “extreme necessity” and authorised in liaison with bordering countries.

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Benin Testing/screening on arrival and departure

Proof of COVID vaccination or a negative PCR test is no longer required for all travellers to enter Benin. However, travellers should comply with the regulations of the country they are departing from. If you need to take a test to depart Benin fees are 25,000 FCFA (normal service) or 50,000 FCFA (premium service). There is an online guidance page (in French) which explains the steps for departing passengers and test results can be obtained within 24 to 48 hours.

Benin Visa departing If you’re fully vaccinated

Entry requirements for Benin are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.

Benin eVisa application is a simplified process, there is no additional documents requried. Applicants must hold a valid passport no less than 6 months. See Check Eligible countries.

Proof of vaccination status

Benin will accept the digital proof of COVID-19 vaccination record. They will not accept the UK’s letter version or proof of recovery. Your NHS appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status.

If you’re not fully vaccinated

Entry requirements for Benin are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.

If you’re transiting through Benin

Transiting is when you pass through one country on the way to your final destination.

Benin Visa regular entry requirements

All visitors need a visa to enter Benin. You should get a short stay or multiple entry e-visa by applying and paying online. The visa will then be issued on arrival at the airport in Cotonou.

Benin Visa Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. You do not need any additional period of validity on your passport beyond this.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

An e-Visa for Benin may be issued as either a multiple entry visa that permits a total stay of either 30 or 90 days or as a single entry visa that allows a total stay of 30 days. To visit the country for longer purposes, it will be necessary to apply for a visa for Benin from an embassy. Check eligible countries for Benin e-Visa

Visas for Nigeria, Ghana and Togo

Non-resident British nationals in Benin who wish to travel to Nigeria and Ghana cannot get entry visas in Benin. You should apply for these before travelling to Benin. You can get a visa for Togo at the Togolese Embassy in Cotonou or at the Togo/Benin border.