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Business & investor visas

Beninese Special Economic Zone (ZES) Investor Resident Card

A five-year resident card reserved for foreign investors in Benin's special economic zone.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Detailed eligibility thresholds (minimum investment) and fees for the ZES resident card are not stated on the official pages consulted; confirm with the DEI and the zone authority.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Benin government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Carte de résident ZES (zone économique spéciale)
Route type
Investor / business residence card
Validity
5 years
Cost
350,000 FCFA (XOF)
Fee stated on the DEI services page for the ZES investor card.
Who qualifies
Foreign investors/operators in a special economic zone
Reserved for foreign nationals with investor status in a Benin special economic zone — notably the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ). Conditions are fixed by decree.
Where to apply
Online at service-public.bj
Appointment booking and payment are made online; the card is issued under the Ministère de l'Intérieur et de la Sécurité Publique.

Who it is for

  • Foreign investors operating in a Benin special economic zone
  • Industrial and commercial operators established in the Glo-Djigbé zone

Requirements

  • Valid passport and appropriate entry visa
  • Evidence of investment / operation within the special economic zone
  • Documents required by the DEI for the resident card

What you can do

  • Reside in Benin for five years as a zone investor
  • Operate a business or investment within the special economic zone

How to apply

Applications are handled online: book your appointment and pay the fee through the government portal at service-public.bj. The card is issued by the Direction de l'Émigration et de l'Immigration (DEI) under the Ministère de l'Intérieur et de la Sécurité Publique.

The DEI publishes a downloadable 'pièces à fournir' (documents to supply) list for the ZES investor card — check it for the exact papers required before your appointment.

Frequently asked questions

  • Foreign nationals who hold investor or operator status in one of Benin's special economic zones, such as the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ). The precise conditions are set by decree.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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