Cameroon Visa Information

Cameroon Visa On Arrival | Visiting-Cameroon

Cameroon Visa On Arrival | Visiting-Cameroon: Visa on arrival is generally not available for most nationalities for regular tourism or business purposes.

Cameroon Visa On Arrival

Cameroon has a mixed approach to visa requirements, and while an eVisa system is in place, "visa on arrival" is generally not available for most nationalities for regular tourism or business purposes.

Important Considerations for "Visa on Arrival" (in the context of eVisa pickup):

In summary, unless you are a citizen of one of the specific visa-exempt CEMAC countries or hold a diplomatic/service passport with a mission order, you will need to obtain a visa for Cameroon before you travel, either through the online eVisa system or at an embassy/consulate. The "on arrival" aspect for most travelers refers to the final step of receiving the physical visa sticker after online pre-approval.

Cameroon Designated Entry Points: The collection of the physical visa upon arrival is usually facilitated at major international airports like Douala (Douala International Airport - DLA) and Yaoundé (Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport - NSI). It's less common or potentially problematic at smaller land or sea borders without prior arrangements.

Cameroon eVisa Required Documents: Even if you're picking up a visa at the airport based on an eVisa authorization, you'll still need to have all your original supporting documents ready for verification by immigration officials (passport, yellow fever vaccination certificate, flight itinerary, proof of accommodation, invitation letters if applicable, etc.). Required Documents

Cameroon eVisa Processing Time: While the physical sticker is issued on arrival, the eVisa authorization itself requires processing time (typically 3-11 business days, depending on urgency). You cannot simply show up without prior eVisa approval. Apply Online

Check Below Here's a breakdown of the current situation regarding visa on arrival in Cameroon:

Eligible for Cameroonian Visa-Free Entry

Who is Eligible for Visa-Free Entry: (and thus doesn't need a visa at all, including on arrival):

Citizens of the following CEMAC (Economic Community of Central African States) countries can enter Cameroon without a visa for up to 90 days:

  • Central African Republic
  • Chad
  • Republic of the Congo
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Gabon
  • Nigeria (for ordinary passport holders)
  • Mali (for ordinary passport holders, due to an agreement)
  • Who Can Get a Cameroon Visa on Arrival (limited cases)

    Holders of Diplomatic or Service Passports: Nationals of certain countries (e.g., China, Italy, Turkey, Russia, UAE, Vietnam, Brazil, Switzerland) holding diplomatic or service passports can obtain a visa on arrival if they have a mission order and a return ticket.

    Pre-Approved eVisa Holders: The most common scenario where something resembling "visa on arrival" occurs for other nationalities is with the eVisa system . If you apply for and receive an eVisa authorization online, you will then get the physical visa sticker affixed to your passport upon arrival at a designated port of entry (typically Douala or Yaoundé international airports). This is not a true "visa on arrival" in the sense of applying and being granted the visa without prior authorization; it's the final step of an online application process.

    Cameroon Student Visa: If you plan to study in Cameroon, you will need a student visa. This requires an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Cameroon.

    General Rule for Most Nationalities: eVisa or Embassy/Consulate Application

    For the vast majority of foreign nationalsa (including those from Europe, North America, Asia, etc.), a visa must be obtained in advance of travel to Cameroon. The two primary methods are

    eVisa (Recommended): This is the most convenient method. You apply online services or through the official Cameroon Consular Services Portal, upload your documents, pay the fees, and receive an electronic authorization. You then present this authorization upon arrival in Cameroon to have the actual visa sticker placed in your passport.

    Cameroon Traditional Embassy/Consulate Application: You can still apply for a visa at a Cameroonian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. This typically involves submitting physical documents and possibly attending an interview.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Visiting Cameroon

    Important Notes

    Check Working Hours: Embassy and consulate working hours can vary, so check their websites or contact them directly to confirm.

    Emergency Services: In case of emergencies, embassies often provide 24-hour emergency contact numbers.

    Make Appointments: Many embassies and consulates require appointments for visa and consular services.

    • Embassy of the United States
      • Address: Avenue Rosa Parks, Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22220 1500
      • Email: YaoundeACS@state.gov
      • Website: US Embassy in Cameroon https://cm.usembassy.gov/
      • Embassy of France
      • Address: Avenue Rosa Parks, Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22222 7936
      • Email: contact@ambafrance-cm.org
      • Website: French Embassy in Cameroon https://cm.ambafrance.org/
      • Embassy of the United Kingdom
      • Address: Rue 1801, Bastos, Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22222 0798
      • Email: ukincameroon@fco.gov.uk
      • Website: UK Embassy in Cameroon https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-high-commission-yaounde
      • Embassy of Germany
      • Address: Rue 1801, Bastos, Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22221 0000
      • Email: info@yaounde.diplo.de
      • Website: German Embassy in Cameroon https://embassies.net/germany-in-cameroon/yaounde
      • Embassy of Canada
      • Address: Rue des Missions, Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22220 2016
      • Email: yunde@international.gc.caWebsite: Canadian Embassy in Cameroon
      • Website: Canadian Embassy in Cameroon https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/cameroon-cameroun/yaounde.aspx?lang=eng
      • Embassy of China
      • Address: Boulevard de l’U.R.S.S., Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22221 3458
      • Email: cm@mfa.gov.cn
      • Website: Chinese Embassy in Cameroon http://cm.china-embassy.gov.cn/
      • Embassy of Italy
      • Address: Rue 1801, Bastos, Yaoundé
      • Phone: +237 22221 1939
      • Email: ambasciata.yaounde@esteri.it
      • Website: Italian Embassy in Cameroon https://ambyaounde.esteri.it/it/

      Consulates in Cameroon

      • 1. Consulate General of Nigeria
      • Address: Rue Bougainville, Douala
      • Phone: +237 23342 1707
      • Email: nigeriaconsulatedouala@yahoo.com
      • 2. Consulate of Belgium
      • Address: 648 Boulevard de la Liberté, Douala
      • Phone: +237 23342 9268
      • Email: douala@diplobel.fed.be
      • Website: Belgian Consulate in Douala
      • 3. Consulate of Spain
      • Address: Rue Joffre, Douala
      • Phone: +237 23342 8705
      • Email: cog.douala@maec.es
      • Website: Spanish Consulate in Douala
      • 4. Consulate of Switzerland
      • Address: Avenue de l'Indépendance, Douala
      • Phone: +237 23342 1282
      • Email: dou.vertretung@eda.admin.ch
      • Website: Swiss Consulate in Douala

    • Q: What is the capital city of Cameroon? A: The capital city of Cameroon is Yaoundé.
    • Q: What languages are spoken in Cameroon? A: Cameroon is a bilingual country with French and English as the official languages. Numerous local languages and dialects are also spoken across the country.
    • Q: What is the currency in Cameroon? A: The currency in Cameroon is the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
    • Culture and Etiquette in Cameroon
    • Q: What should I wear when visiting Cameroon? A: Cameroon has a warm climate, so lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended. In urban areas, casual attire is acceptable, but it’s advisable to dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites.
    • Q: Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of? A: Cameroonians value politeness and greetings. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and to use titles and formal language, especially with elders and officials.
    • Q: Can I drink tap water in Cameroon? A: It is generally recommended to drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
    • Communication in Cameroon?
    • Q: What is the best way to stay connected in Cameroon? A: You can stay connected by using local SIM cards from mobile network providers such as MTN, Orange, and Nexttel. Internet access is widely available in cities and towns.
    • Q: Do I need to learn French or English to communicate effectively in Cameroon? A: While it is helpful to know some basic phrases in French or English, many people in urban areas speak at least some English or French. Learning a few local phrases can also be beneficial and appreciated.
    • Contact Support If you have any more specific questions or need further information, feel free to ask!

    • Q: Is a Yellow Fever vaccination required to enter Cameroon? A: Yes, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Cameroon.
    • Q: What other vaccinations are recommended for travel to Cameroon? A: Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, meningitis, and routine vaccinations such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), and influenza.
    • Q: Is Cameroon safe for tourists? A: Cameroon is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to stay informed about the current security situation, avoid areas with political unrest or high crime rates, and follow local advice and guidelines.

    • Q: How can I travel within Cameroon? A: Travel within Cameroon can be done by domestic flights, buses, taxis, and rental cars. Major cities like Yaoundé and Douala have airports with domestic flight connections.
    • Q: Are there any travel advisories for specific regions in Cameroon? A: Certain regions, particularly the Far North, North-West, and South-West, may have travel advisories due to security concerns. Always check the latest travel advisories from your government before traveling.

    • Q: What types of accommodation are available in Cameroon? A: Cameroon offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, lodges, and rental apartments. Options vary from budget to luxury.
    • Q: Do I need to book accommodation in advance? A: It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or if you have specific preferences.
    General Visa Information about Cameroon

  • A: Most visitors require a visa to enter Cameroon. Visa exemptions apply to nationals of certain countries. Check with the Cameroonian embassy or consulate in your country to confirm whether you need a visa.
  • A: Common types of visas include tourist, business, work, student, transit, and family reunion visas.
  • A: Applications are typically submitted in person at a Cameroonian embassy or consulate. You will need to provide a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and other supporting documents.
  • Documents Needed:
  • Tourist Visa: Required for most visitors. Apply Online
  • Valid passport (at least six months beyond your intended stay)
  • Completed visa application form Online
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
  • Visa fee
  • Check the full list of Visa Requirements?
  • A: As of now, Cameroon does not have a fully implemented e-Visa system. Visa applications are generally handled through embassies and consulates.
  • Q: What is the validity period for a tourist visa? A: Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the applicant’s circumstances and the discretion of the issuing authority.
  • Q: How long is a business visa valid? A: Business visas are generally valid for 30 to 90 days. Multiple-entry business visas may be valid for longer periods, depending on the needs of the applicant and the issuing authority’s discretion.
  • Q: What is required for a student visa? A: For a student visa, you will need an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Cameroon, proof of tuition payment, and other standard visa application documents.
  • Q: How do I apply for a work visa? A: To apply for a work visa, you will need a signed employment contract from your employer in Cameroon and a work permit issued by the Cameroonian Ministry of Labor, along with standard visa application documents.
  • Visa Extensions
  • Q: Can I extend my stay in Cameroon beyond my visa’s validity? A: Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the immigration office in Cameroon. You will need to submit an extension application form, a valid passport, your current visa, passport-sized photos, proof of financial means, a letter explaining the reason for the extension, and proof of accommodation.
  • Q: How early should I apply for a visa extension? A: Apply well before your current visa expires to allow sufficient processing time.
  • Additional Information
  • Q: Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccination to enter Cameroon? A: Yes, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Cameroon.
  • Q: How much does a Cameroonian visa cost? A: Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the processing speed. Check with the Cameroonian embassy or consulate for specific fee information.
  • Q: What should I do if my visa application is denied? A: If your visa application is denied, you may reapply, providing additional supporting documents or addressing the reasons for denial. It’s advisable to contact the embassy or consulate for guidance on how to proceed.
  • Cameroon Visa Requirements Links


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