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Visitor & short-stay visas

Central African Visa on Arrival (Pre-Arranged)

A visa collected on arrival, available only when arranged in advance through a Central African diplomatic mission.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The exact conditions, eligible nationalities and any fee for pre-arranged visa on arrival are not published on an official Central African page; confirm with a mission.

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 Central African Republic government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Visa on arrival (pre-arranged)
Route type
On-arrival issuance, subject to prior arrangement
Availability
Only if arranged in advance with a Central African mission
Who it is for
Residents of countries with no CAR mission
Pre-authorisation
Required before travel
Not a walk-up visa; express authorisation must be requested in advance.
Where issued
On arrival at Bangui M'Poko International Airport
Penalty without a visa
200,000 FCFA (approx. EUR 300)
This is the fine for arriving with no valid visa, not the price of the visa on arrival.

Who it is for

  • Travellers whose entry has been pre-arranged with a Central African embassy or consulate
  • Not a substitute for obtaining a visa in the normal way for general visitors

How to apply

  • Contact a Central African diplomatic mission in advance to arrange on-arrival issuance
  • Carry evidence of the pre-arrangement when travelling

Requirements

  • This route is only for travellers who live in a country where there is no Central African Republic diplomatic mission to issue a visa in advance.
  • You must obtain an express prior authorisation from the Central African authorities before you travel — a visa is not simply issued to anyone who turns up at the airport.
  • A passport valid for at least six months beyond arrival, with blank pages for stamps.
  • A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Documents you may need

  • The express prior authorisation obtained before travel
  • Passport valid 6+ months with blank pages
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate
  • Evidence of the purpose of your trip and onward/return travel

Frequently asked questions

  • No. The visa on arrival is only for people who live where there is no Central African Republic mission, and even then you must obtain an express authorisation in advance. Arriving without a valid visa or authorisation can result in a fine of 200,000 FCFA (about EUR 300).

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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