DR Congo entry requirements for Ivory Coast passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Ivory Coast passport holders need an eVisa to enter DR Congo. Apply online before you travel, and carry a printed copy of the approval. As of 2026, this is the standard entry method for most nationalities.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before departure | Apply for your DR Congo eVisa at the official portal visa.gouv.cd. Processing takes 3–5 business days — do not book flights until you receive approval. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover your entire stay | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from DR Congo. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Kinshasa and Lubumbashi airports routinely ask for a printed or digital onward ticket. Have a confirmed flight out of DR Congo ready — a refundable booking works fine. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in DR Congo. Officers occasionally ask for it, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have a bank statement or cash equivalent to at least $500 USD for your stay. Immigration may ask how you plan to cover expenses — showing a credit card or cash works. | Recommended |
Yellow fever vaccine is mandatory
You must show your yellow fever vaccination card (the yellow booklet) at immigration. Without it, you may be denied entry or forced to get vaccinated at the airport — which can be a hassle.
Print everything
Don't rely on your phone alone. Print your eVisa approval, return ticket, and hotel confirmation. Power outages and poor network are common at airports.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official DR Congo visa portal (visa.gouv.cd). Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee online. Processing usually takes 3–5 business days.
2
Print your eVisa approval
Once approved, you'll receive a PDF by email. Print at least one copy — you'll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival in Kinshasa or Lubumbashi.
3
Arrive at the airport in DR Congo
At N'djili Airport (Kinshasa) or Luano Airport (Lubumbashi), go to the immigration desk. Present your passport, printed eVisa, and return ticket. They'll stamp you in. The process usually takes 10–15 minutes.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, grab your bags from the carousel. You may be asked for your yellow fever vaccination card at customs — keep it handy.
Download DR Congo Entry Checklist
PDF · Ivory Coast Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable once for 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD (approx. $50 USD)
Apply at DR Congo embassy or online.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$90 USD (approx. $90 USD)
Ideal for frequent travellers.
Long-stay visa (visiteur)
Max stay1 year, renewable
Validity1 year from issue
Cost$200 USD (approx. $200 USD)
Requires local sponsor and proof of sufficient funds.
work visa
Carte de Travail (Work Permit)
1 year, renewable
~$300 USD (approx. $300 USD)
For foreign employees with a local job offer. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from Ministry of Labour.
student visa
Student Visa (Visa d'Étudiant)
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. $100 USD)
For enrolled students at recognized DR Congo institutions. Requires proof of enrollment and sufficient funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa (Visa d'Investisseur)
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. $500 USD)
For individuals investing at least $50,000 USD in a local business. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa. | $50 USD (approx. $50 USD) |
| eVisa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity. | $90 USD (approx. $90 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayPayable at immigration upon departure. | $10 USD per day (max $500 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through DR Congo
Transit visa required
A transit visa is required for Ivory Coast passport holders changing planes in DR Congo, even if staying airside.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without a visa for up to 24 hours.
Transit hubsN'djili International Airport (FIH), Kinshasa · Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM) · Goma International Airport (GOM)
Health & vaccines for DR Congo
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired for all travellers arriving from endemic countries, including Ivory Coast.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout the country; prophylaxis strongly recommended.
DengueModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas; mosquito avoidance advised.
CholeraModerate risk
Outbreaks occur, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round in all regions. Use insect repellent, bed nets, and take prophylactic medication.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Kinshasa
Direction Générale de Migration (DGM)
Boulevard du 30 Juin, Kinshasa
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits.
Lubumbashi
DGM Lubumbashi
Avenue de la Révolution, Lubumbashi
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Regional office for Haut-Katanga province.
Practical information for CI travellers
Country basics
CapitalKinshasa
LanguageFrench
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 3 months; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyCongolese franc (CDF)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 2,290.66 CDF
Time zone
Local timeUTC+1
vs New York+6h
vs Los Angeles+9h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,D,ETypes C, D, and E plugs are used.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Typically 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your flight to be safe. There's no expedited option.
The official fee is around $50–$80 depending on your nationality. Check the portal for the exact amount — it's paid online by credit card.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to leave and re-enter, or apply for a different visa type before travel.
Yes, it's required for entry. You'll need to show your yellow fever vaccination card (the yellow booklet) at immigration. Without it, you may be denied entry or forced to get vaccinated at the airport.
You won't be allowed to enter. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. The 6 months are counted from your date of arrival, not your departure.
No. The eVisa is mandatory for Ivory Coast passport holders. There is no visa-on-arrival option at any DR Congo airport.
Your passport, printed eVisa approval, return ticket (screenshot or printed), and proof of first night accommodation. Have them ready before you reach the desk.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.