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Visitor & short-stay visas

Mauritanian Visa-Free Entry (Bilateral Exemptions)

For nationals of countries holding a visa-exemption agreement with Mauritania, allowing entry for short stays without needing to obtain a visa first.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The exact list of visa-exempt nationalities and whether each agreement covers ordinary or only diplomatic/official passports must be confirmed against the official diplomatie.gov.mr list before publishing.

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 Mauritania government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Exemption de visa (bilateral agreement)
Route type
Visa-free short-stay entry
Authority
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Mauritanians Abroad
Applies to
Nationals of agreement countries; some agreements cover only diplomatic/official passports
Passport-type scope varies by agreement
Where to apply
At the port of entry (no online visa needed for exempt nationals)
Cost
No visa fee for exempt nationals
Issued by
ANRPTS – National Agency for the Population Register and Secure Titles (Ministry of the Interior)

Who it is for

  • Nationals of countries holding a visa-exemption agreement with Mauritania
  • In several cases, holders of diplomatic or official passports specifically

What you can do

  • Enter Mauritania for a short stay without applying for an e-Visa
  • Still subject to passport validity and health (yellow fever) entry rules

How to apply

  • No visa application is required for eligible nationals
  • Confirm eligibility and passport-type scope on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa page before travel

Requirements

  • Your entry is visa-free only if your nationality is covered by a bilateral exemption agreement with Mauritania; all other travellers must obtain an e-Visa from ANRPTS before travelling.
  • A passport that is valid for your stay and has blank pages for entry stamps.
  • Since 5 January 2025 visas are no longer issued on arrival or as embassy stickers, so if you are not exempt you cannot simply turn up and pay at the border — confirm your exemption before you fly.
  • Border officers may ask to see onward or return travel and proof of where you are staying.

Frequently asked questions

  • No. Since 5 January 2025 Mauritania no longer issues visas on arrival or as embassy stickers. If your nationality is not covered by a bilateral exemption you must obtain an e-Visa online before you travel.

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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