Burkina Faso Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Burkina Faso, located in West Africa, requires most international travelers to obtain a visa before entry. The country has implemented an electronic visa (e-visa) system that simplifies the application process for eligible nationalities. Entry requirements include a valid passport, appropriate visa documentation, and proof of yellow fever vaccination, which is mandatory for all travelers entering the country. The immigration process in Burkina Faso typically takes place at Ouagadougou Airport (the main international gateway) or at land border crossings. Travelers should be prepared for thorough document checks and ensure all paperwork is in order before arrival. The country's security situation can be volatile in certain regions, so it's essential to check current travel advisories from your government before planning your trip. Visitors should note that Burkina Faso uses the West African CFA franc (XOF) as its currency, and French is the official language, though local languages are widely spoken. It's advisable to have all required documents translated into French if they are in other languages. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended due to limited medical facilities in the country.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Burkina Faso requires most foreign nationals to obtain a visa before entry. The country offers an e-visa system for many nationalities, while citizens of ECOWAS member states enjoy visa-free access. Traditional embassy visa applications are still available for those not eligible for e-visas.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days

Citizens of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member countries can enter without a visa

Includes

ECOWAS citizens must still carry a valid passport or ECOWAS travel certificate and proof of yellow fever vaccination. Free movement is guaranteed under ECOWAS protocols.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Typically 30 days (single or multiple entry options available)

Many nationalities can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

United States Canada United Kingdom Australia Most European Union countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, etc.) Japan South Korea China India Brazil South Africa Most other countries not in ECOWAS

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Burkina Faso e-visa portal at least 7-10 days before travel. Upload required documents including passport copy, photo, yellow fever certificate, and travel itinerary. Processing typically takes 3-7 business days. Print the approved e-visa and present it upon arrival.
Cost: Approximately 50-85 EUR depending on visa type (tourist, business) and number of entries. Payment is made online via credit/debit card.

E-visa must be printed and presented at immigration. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from entry date. The e-visa is approved before travel but stamped upon arrival. Keep multiple copies of your e-visa approval.

Embassy Visa Required

Varies by visa type: typically 30-90 days

Some nationalities or special circumstances require traditional visa application at an embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Burkina Faso embassy or consulate with completed application form, passport photos, passport valid for 6+ months, yellow fever certificate, invitation letter (if applicable), proof of accommodation, and return flight ticket. Processing can take 5-15 business days.

Required for nationalities not eligible for e-visa, or for long-term visas (work, study, residence permits). Visa on arrival is generally not available for most nationalities. Business visas require invitation from Burkinabé company or organization.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Burkina Faso, travelers proceed through immigration control where documents are verified, followed by customs inspection. The process is generally straightforward if all documentation is in order, though it can be time-consuming during peak hours.

Document Verification

Present your passport, visa (e-visa printout or visa sticker), and yellow fever vaccination certificate to immigration officers. They will verify your documents and may ask questions about your visit.

Immigration Stamp

Once approved, your passport will be stamped with entry date and permitted duration of stay. Verify the dates are correct before leaving the counter.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the baggage carousel. Report any missing or damaged luggage immediately to airport staff.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if required. Declare any items exceeding duty-free allowances, large amounts of currency, or restricted items.

Customs Inspection

Proceed through customs where your luggage may be inspected. Officers may ask about items you're bringing into the country. Be honest and cooperative.

Exit to Arrivals

After clearing customs, proceed to the arrivals area where you can arrange onward transportation.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Should have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa Documentation

Printed e-visa approval or visa sticker in passport. Keep multiple copies of e-visa in case of issues.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Mandatory for all travelers regardless of origin. Must be the original International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Vaccination must be at least 10 days old before travel.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Burkina Faso. May be requested by immigration officers to confirm you don't intend to overstay.

Accommodation Proof

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying. May be requested during immigration interview.

Sufficient Funds

Evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay (cash, credit cards, bank statements). Rarely checked but advisable to have available.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with all documents organized and easily accessible. Keep copies separate from originals in case of loss.

Be patient and polite with immigration officers. The process can take time, especially during busy periods.

Ensure your yellow fever certificate is readily available - this is strictly enforced and you may be denied entry without it.

Have contact information for your accommodation written down in case you need to provide it.

Keep some local currency (CFA francs) or euros for immediate expenses upon arrival, as ATMs may not always be reliable.

Register with your embassy upon arrival if staying for an extended period, due to security considerations in some regions.

Take note of your visa expiry date and ensure you depart before it expires to avoid fines or complications.

Photography is restricted at airports, government buildings, and military installations. Always ask permission before taking photos.

Customs & Duty-Free

Burkina Faso customs regulations allow travelers to bring in personal items and reasonable quantities of goods for personal use duty-free. Certain items are prohibited or restricted, and currency declarations are required above specified thresholds. Be prepared to declare items honestly to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol for personal consumption only.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

Amounts exceeding 1,000,000 XOF (approximately 1,500 EUR/USD) must be declared

Both local (XOF) and foreign currency must be declared if exceeding threshold. Declaration form must be completed upon entry and kept for exit. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated.

Gifts/Goods

Personal items and gifts up to a reasonable value for personal use

Commercial quantities of goods are subject to duty. New items in original packaging may be questioned. Declare expensive electronics, cameras, and jewelry to avoid issues on departure.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use (typically 50ml perfume or 250ml eau de toilette)

Commercial quantities will be taxed.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Severe penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition - Unless properly licensed and declared
Counterfeit currency and goods - Subject to confiscation and prosecution
Pornographic materials - Prohibited under national law
Endangered species products - Items made from protected wildlife (ivory, certain skins, etc.)
Subversive or seditious materials - Publications deemed threatening to national security

Restricted Items

Medications - Prescription drugs should be in original containers with prescriptions. Quantities should be reasonable for personal use during stay. Declare controlled substances.
Firearms and hunting equipment - Require special permits from authorities. Must be declared and approved before entry.
Plants and plant products - May require phytosanitary certificates to prevent introduction of pests and diseases.
Animals and animal products - Require veterinary health certificates and import permits. See pet import requirements for details.
Radio transmitters and drones - Require special authorization from telecommunications authorities. Drones are particularly restricted.
Cultural artifacts - Export of cultural heritage items is strictly controlled and requires permits.

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entry to Burkina Faso are strictly enforced, with yellow fever vaccination being mandatory for all travelers. Additional vaccinations are strongly recommended due to health risks in the region.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for all travelers aged 9 months and older. You must present the original International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) at immigration. Vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before travel. This is strictly enforced and entry will be denied without proof.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to risk from contaminated food and water
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Meningitis (Meningococcal) - Recommended, particularly during dry season (December-June) when risk is highest
Rabies - Recommended for travelers spending time outdoors, working with animals, or in rural areas
Polio - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccination is up to date

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are limited, especially outside the capital. Serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Europe or neighboring countries with better facilities. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Carry proof of insurance and emergency contact numbers.

Current Health Requirements: Check current health requirements before travel, including any COVID-19 related measures such as testing, vaccination certificates, or quarantine requirements. Requirements can change rapidly. Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis - malaria is endemic throughout Burkina Faso year-round. Bring insect repellent, antimalarial medication, and sleep under mosquito nets. Drink only bottled or purified water and avoid raw or undercooked food. Consider travel health clinic consultation 4-6 weeks before departure.

🛡️

Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and 24/7 emergency assistance. Many countries recommend or require travel insurance.

Get a Quote from World Nomads

Read our complete Burkina Faso Travel Insurance Guide →

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Burkina Faso (located in Ouagadougou) for assistance

Register with your embassy upon arrival if staying for extended periods. Check your government's travel advisory website for current security information and embassy contact details before traveling.

Immigration Authority - Direction Générale de la Police Nationale

For visa extensions, registration, and immigration matters in Ouagadougou

E-visa applications are processed through the official government e-visa portal. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for official visa information.

Emergency Services

Police: 17 | Fire: 18 | Medical Emergency: Contact your embassy for reliable medical facilities

Emergency response capabilities are limited. For serious medical emergencies, contact your embassy immediately for evacuation assistance. Keep emergency numbers and embassy contacts easily accessible.

Ouagadougou Airport

Ouagadougou Airport (OUA) - Main international gateway

Limited facilities available. Arrange transportation before arrival when possible.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport and visa (e-visa or embassy visa as applicable). Yellow fever vaccination is required for children 9 months and older. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s), including contact information and authorizing the child to travel. This letter should be in French or accompanied by a French translation. If traveling with one parent, bring the child's birth certificate showing both parents' names. Single parents or guardians should carry custody documents if applicable. Unaccompanied minors may face additional scrutiny and should have comprehensive documentation including contact information for responsible adults in Burkina Faso.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Burkina Faso require: (1) Valid veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, confirming the animal is healthy and free from contagious diseases; (2) Rabies vaccination certificate showing vaccination at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel; (3) Import permit from Burkina Faso's veterinary services (Direction des Services Vétérinaires), which should be obtained before travel; (4) Some airlines require additional documentation. Pets must be examined by veterinary officials upon arrival. Fees apply for inspection. Note that facilities for pets are very limited in Burkina Faso. Consider carefully whether bringing a pet is advisable given the climate, health risks, and limited veterinary care available.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas typically allow stays of 30-90 days. For longer stays, you must apply for a visa extension at the Direction Générale de la Police Nationale in Ouagadougou before your current visa expires. Bring your passport, current visa, proof of accommodation, financial means, and reason for extension. Extensions are not guaranteed and fees apply. For stays exceeding 90 days or for work/study purposes, you need a long-stay visa or residence permit. These must be applied for at a Burkina Faso embassy before travel, or in some cases can be converted from a tourist visa after arrival with proper justification and documentation. Work permits require sponsorship from a Burkinabé employer and approval from labor authorities. Student visas require acceptance from a recognized educational institution. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business travelers should obtain a business visa (available as e-visa or through embassy). Required documents include invitation letter from Burkinabé company or organization on official letterhead, explaining purpose and duration of visit. The letter should include company registration details and contact information. Business visas may allow single or multiple entries. Keep copies of all business correspondence and meeting schedules. Register with local authorities if staying beyond initial visa period. Business travelers should be aware of photography restrictions near government and commercial facilities.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special accreditation from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy before arrival. Apply well in advance (at least 4-6 weeks) through a Burkina Faso embassy with detailed information about your assignment, locations you plan to visit, and equipment you're bringing. Unauthorized journalism activities can result in detention, equipment confiscation, and deportation. Always carry accreditation documents and respect restrictions on photography and filming, particularly regarding military, government, and security installations.