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3 ways to enter

Central African Republic visas

Central African Republic tourist visa

Visitors generally need a visa before travelling. Some nationalities can visit without a visa or get a visa on arrival.

Ways to get a Central African Republic tourist visa

  1. Visa from a diplomatic mission

    Visa needed

    Visitors who need a visa must obtain one from a Central African Republic or French diplomatic mission.

  3. Visa on arrival

    Visa on arrival

    Citizens of the United Arab Emirates may obtain a visa on arrival.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days

    Passports that qualify (1)

Who needs it

Visitors who do not qualify for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival must obtain a visa from a Central African Republic or French diplomatic mission.

Who doesn't

Citizens of Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Israel, Liberia, Niger, Rwanda and Senegal can visit without a visa for up to 90 days.

Good to know

  • The embassy in Paris allows visitors to fill out the regular visa application online.
  • Visa-free entry for United States citizens ended on 17 November 2023.

Questions

Do I need a tourist visa for the Central African Republic?

Visitors who do not qualify for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival must obtain a visa from a Central African Republic or French diplomatic mission. Citizens of Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Israel, Liberia, Niger, Rwanda and Senegal can visit without a visa for up to 90 days.

What are the ways to get a tourist visa for the Central African Republic?

There are 3 options: Visa from a diplomatic mission (a visa from an embassy); Visa-free visit (no visa at all); Visa on arrival (a visa at the border).

Who can go to the Central African Republic without a tourist visa?

Citizens of the 14 listed countries can visit without a visa for up to 90 days.

Does my passport change whether I need a tourist visa for the Central African Republic?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Central African Republic visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a tourist visa for the Central African Republic be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest the Central African Republic tourist visa rules?

On the Central African Republic's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my tourist visa once I am in the Central African Republic?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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