Malagasy visa resources
The transformable visa explained
Madagascar's distinctive long-stay mechanism: a short visa obtained abroad that is converted into residence after arrival.
Important
Madagascar does not issue most long-stay visas fully in advance. Instead it uses a 'transformable' (convertible) visa: a short visa — commonly valid for about a month — obtained from a Malagasy embassy or consulate before travel, which entitles the holder to convert it into a long-stay visa and residence card once inside the country.
The route is purpose-based: the applicant must fit a defined category such as employment, studies, investment, retirement or family reunification, each with its own supporting documents. Conversion is handled by the Immigration and Emigration Service of the Ministry of the Interior, and by EDBM for investors, and must be started within a strict window after arrival. Importantly, converting to long-stay status does not by itself guarantee a residence permit — that is granted on the immigration service's conditions.
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.