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Visitor & short-stay visas

Beninese Transit Visa

A short authorisation to enter and cross Benin's territory from one border to another while passing through the country.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Transit visa fee, processing time and number of entries are not published on the official DEI (dei.gouv.bj) or evisa.bj sources. The 6-month passport validity and onward-ticket document requirements are taken from the e-visa portal's general rules and should be confirmed against the DEI 'pièces à fournir' list before relying on them.

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
Visa de transit
Route type
Transit visa
Stay
Maximum 8 days to cross the territory
Maximum stay
8 days
The DEI defines the transit visa as authorising the holder to enter and cross Benin from one border to another; the stay for transit must not exceed eight (08) days.
Purpose
Crossing Benin en route to another country
Not intended for tourism or a longer stay — use the tourist/e-visa for that.
Where to apply
Online via the official e-visa portal, evisa.bj
Transit is one of the selectable travel purposes; a transit visa can also be requested through the DEI in Cotonou.
Cost
Not officially published
No transit-specific fee is stated on the DEI or evisa.bj pages — confirm the current amount at application.

Who it is for

  • Travellers crossing Benin overland to reach another country
  • Those who do not qualify for visa-free transit

What you can do

  • Enter and pass through Benin from one border to another
  • Complete the crossing within the 8-day maximum

Requirements

  • Your journey is a transit through Benin to onward destination, not a stay in the country.
  • A passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival, with at least one blank page for stamping (per the e-visa portal's general rules).
  • A confirmed onward or return ticket for your final destination.
  • Evidence that you can cover your expenses while in Benin.

How to apply

Apply online through the official government e-visa portal at evisa.bj and select transit as the purpose of travel. Complete the application form, upload a scan of your passport bio-data page and a passport photo, attach your onward ticket, and pay the fee online.

A transit visa can alternatively be requested directly through the Direction de l'Émigration et de l'Immigration (DEI) in Cotonou, whose downloadable list sets out the exact documents required.

Documents you may need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months with a blank page
  • Completed online e-visa application form
  • Passport-style photograph
  • Confirmed onward / return ticket to your final destination
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the transit

Frequently asked questions

  • The transit visa allows you to enter and cross the country from one border to another; the DEI sets the maximum stay for transit at eight (08) days.

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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