Beninese visa resources
ECOWAS Free Movement and Visa-Free Travel
How the ECOWAS free-movement protocol and Benin's visa-waiver agreements let some travellers enter without a visa.
Important
Benin is a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and nationals of ECOWAS member states benefit from the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons. They can enter and stay in Benin for up to 90 days for short-term activities on presentation of a valid passport or national identity document, and they enjoy simplified conditions for longer establishment and employment.
Beyond ECOWAS, Benin has concluded visa-waiver arrangements with a number of other countries whose nationals can enter without a visa for a limited period. Because these arrangements and their allowed stays vary, and the country list can change, travellers should always confirm their status on the official DEI or e-Visa site before booking travel. All travellers, regardless of visa status, must carry a valid passport and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Key points
- ECOWAS nationals: visa-free, up to 90 days, with ID or passport
- Some non-ECOWAS nationalities: visa-free under bilateral waivers, stay varies
- Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry
- Work and study are not covered by visa-free short-stay entry
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.