Are you planning to visit Burundi, the heart of Africa? If so, you might be wondering how to get a visa for this beautiful country. Don’t worry, we have you covered! In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about Burundi visa requirements, application process, fees, and tips.
Burundi visa requirements
According to the visa policy of Burundi, all visitors to Burundi, unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries mentioned below, can obtain a visa upon arrival at Bujumbura International Airport (Melchior Ndadaye) and all land borders. They can also obtain from one of the Burundian diplomatic missions before entering the country.
The visa-exempt countries are:
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Comoros
- Congo
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Djibouti
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Kenya
- Liberia
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- Seychelles
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Uganda
- Zambia
If you are not from one of these countries, you will need a visa to enter Burundi. There are two types of visas available: tourist and business. The tourist visa is valid for 30 days and costs $90. The business visa is valid for 90 days and costs $150. Both visas are single-entry and non-renewable.
Burundi visa application process
There are two ways to apply for a Burundi visa: on arrival or in advance.
On arrival: This is the easiest and most convenient option for most travelers. You can get your visa on arrival at Bujumbura International Airport or any land or maritime entry points. You will need to fill out an application form, provide two passport-sized photos, pay the visa fee in cash (US dollars or euros), and show your passport with at least six months of validity and one blank page. The process is usually quick and hassle-free, but it might take longer during peak seasons or if there are many applicants.
In advance: If you prefer to get your visa before you travel, you can apply at one of the Burundian diplomatic missions abroad. You will need to submit your passport, two passport-sized photos, a completed application form, a copy of your flight itinerary, a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a host in Burundi, and the visa fee (which may vary depending on the embassy or consulate). You may also need to provide additional documents depending on your purpose of visit and nationality. The processing time may take up to 10 working days or more.
Burundi visa fees
The visa fees for Burundi are as follows:
Tourist visa: $90 for 30 days, single-entry.
Business visa: $150 for 90 days, single-entry.
Visa extension: Not possible.
Visa on arrival: Same as above.
Visa in advance: Same as above, plus additional service charges depending on the embassy or consulate.
You can pay the visa fee in cash (US dollars or euros) at the airport or border, or by bank transfer or money order if you apply in advance. Make sure you have the exact amount as change may not be available.
Tips for getting a Burundi visa
Here are some tips to make your Burundi visa application easier and smoother:
- Check the validity of your passport and make sure it has at least six months of validity and one blank page.
- Check if you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.
- Apply for your visa in advance if you want to avoid queues or delays at the airport or border.
- Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times while in Burundi.
- Contact the nearest Burundian embassy or consulate if you have any questions or doubts about your visa.
We hope this blog post has helped you understand how to get a visa for Burundi. Now you are ready to explore this amazing country and its rich culture, nature, and history. Have a wonderful trip!