Burundi entry requirements for Lebanon passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
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
Lebanese passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Burundi. Pay at Bujumbura airport and receive a 30-day single-entry visa. This policy is effective as of 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrival Visa on arrival | Get your visa on arrival at Bujumbura International Airport. Have a printed invitation letter or hotel booking confirmation ready — immigration officers often ask for it. Pay the visa fee in cash (USD or EUR) — the exact amount varies but expect around $40–$90 USD depending on nationality.Check visa details | Required |
| Valid passport Passport validity | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Burundi. Have at least one blank page for the visa sticker. Airlines at check-in will enforce this strictly. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration at Bujumbura will ask for a return or onward ticket before they issue the visa on arrival. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight itinerary ready. If you're overlanding out, show a bus ticket or a letter explaining your exit plan. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Have a printed hotel reservation or an invitation letter from your host in Burundi. Immigration officers at the visa-on-arrival counter sometimes ask for this. A simple booking confirmation from Booking.com or a letter from a friend works. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Financial means | Carry at least $200 USD in cash or have a credit card statement showing available funds. Immigration may ask how you'll support yourself during your stay. ATMs in Bujumbura are unreliable — bring enough cash for your trip. | Recommended |
Cash only for visa fee
The visa on arrival fee must be paid in cash — USD or EUR. No credit cards, no ATM at the airport. Bring exact change if possible to avoid issues.
Yellow fever vaccine required
You must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Burundi. Without it, you may be denied entry or forced to get vaccinated at the airport (if available). Get the shot at least 10 days before travel.
What happens at the border
1
Prepare documents before departure
Ensure your passport has 6+ months validity and at least one blank page. Print or save digital copies of your return ticket and first night hotel booking. Get travel insurance and a local SIM or eSIM if desired.
2
Arrive at Bujumbura International Airport
After landing, follow signs to the immigration hall. Look for the 'Visa on Arrival' counter. There may be a short queue.
3
Submit documents and pay fee
Hand over your passport, completed arrival card (usually provided on the plane), and return ticket. Pay the visa fee in cash (USD or EUR). The officer will process your visa.
4
Receive visa and enter
The visa sticker is placed in your passport. Check that the validity dates are correct. Then proceed to passport control for stamping and entry.
Download Burundi Entry Checklist
PDF · Lebanon 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 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$40 USD (approx. 80,000 BIF)
Apply at Burundian embassy abroad or obtain on arrival; extension possible at immigration office.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$80 USD (approx. 160,000 BIF)
Available on request at embassy; allows multiple entries for frequent travellers.
Business visa
Max stay90 days, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$100 USD (approx. 200,000 BIF)
Requires invitation letter from Burundian company; apply at embassy.
work visa
Work Permit and Residence Visa
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 400,000 BIF) plus employer sponsorship
For foreign nationals employed by a Burundian company. Requires job offer, work contract, and approval from Ministry of Labour. Allows long-term stay and multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 200,000 BIF)
For enrolled students at recognized Burundian institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds. Allows stay for duration of studies.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 1,000,000 BIF) plus investment proof
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in Burundi. Requires business plan and registration. Grants long-term residence and work rights.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry)Payable in cash (USD or local currency) upon arrival at Bujumbura International Airport. | ~$40 USD (approx. 80,000 BIF) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo known maximum cap; avoid overstaying to prevent fines and future entry issues. | ~$10 USD per day (approx. 20,000 BIF) |
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 Burundi
No transit visa needed
Lebanon passport holders transiting through Bujumbura International Airport do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, if leaving the airport or changing terminals, a visa on arrival may be required.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for Burundi or a neighboring country may transit without visa for up to 24 hours.
Transit hubsBujumbura International Airport (BJM)
Health & vaccines for Burundi
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission; Burundi has risk of yellow fever.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Burundi, including urban areas; prophylaxis strongly recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially during rainy seasons; use mosquito repellent.
Typhoid feverModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food and water; vaccination and safe eating habits advised.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round nationwide. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is recommended for all travellers. Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Bujumbura
Direction Générale de l'Immigration et de l'Émigration
Avenue de l'Indépendance, Bujumbura
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring passport, photos, and fee in cash.
Gitega
Immigration Office Gitega
Near the central market, Gitega
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Regional office for extensions; limited services, call ahead.
Practical information for LB travellers
Country basics
CapitalGitega
LanguageKirundi, French, English
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
CurrencyBurundian franc (BIF)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 2,988.1 BIF
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,ETypes C and E, standard European two-pin and Schuko.
⚠ 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
The visa on arrival fee is $90 USD for a 30-day single-entry visa. You must pay in cash — US dollars or euros are accepted. Credit cards are not accepted at the airport.
Yes, you can extend your visa at the Immigration Office in Bujumbura. Extensions are typically granted for additional 30-day periods. The cost is $50 USD. Visit the office at least a week before your visa expires.
Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Burundi. You'll need to show it at the airport. Get the vaccine at least 10 days before travel.
You will be denied boarding by the airline and refused entry at immigration. Renew your passport before traveling. The 6-month validity is strictly enforced.
Visa on arrival is primarily available at Bujumbura International Airport. Land border crossings may not offer this facility. It's safer to fly into Bujumbura or check with the nearest Burundian embassy before attempting a land entry.
Travel insurance is not mandatory for entry, but it is strongly recommended. Medical facilities are limited, and evacuation to another country can be very expensive. Many travelers get insurance for peace of mind.
You'll need your passport (6+ months validity, one blank page), a completed arrival card (usually given on the plane), your return or onward ticket, and proof of first night accommodation. Have cash ready for the fee.
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.