Benin eVisa 2026 – Your Complete Guide to Visiting Benin
The Benin eVisa is the official electronic visa for traveling to the Republic of Benin in West Africa. Issued through the government portal at evisa.bj, the eVisa allows tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers to enter Benin without visiting an embassy. In 2026, the process is fully digital – from application to approval, everything happens online.
Whether you are traveling for tourism, attending a conference, or transiting through Cotonou International Airport (COO), this guide covers everything you need to know about the Benin eVisa application, costs, processing times, and entry requirements.
What Is the Benin eVisa?
The Benin eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that replaces the traditional visa-on-arrival process for most nationalities. It is linked digitally to your passport and allows entry at all official border crossings, including Cadjehoun Airport (COO) in Cotonou. Learn more on our What is Benin eVisa page.
Benin eVisa Fees in 2026
The official eVisa fees, payable through evisa.bj, are as follows:
| Visa Type | Duration | Entry | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist eVisa | 30 days | Single entry | 50 EUR |
| Tourist eVisa | 30 days | Multiple entry | 75 EUR |
| Tourist eVisa | 90 days | Multiple entry | 100 EUR |
See our full Benin eVisa fee guide for a breakdown of costs and payment methods.
How to Apply for the Benin eVisa
Applying for the Benin eVisa is a straightforward three-step process:
- Complete the online form – Fill in your personal details, travel dates, and passport information at evisa.bj.
- Upload documents – Submit a scanned copy of your passport, a passport photo, and any supporting documents (hotel booking, return ticket).
- Pay the fee – Pay online by card. Processing takes 3-5 business days.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our How to Apply for Benin eVisa guide.
Benin eVisa Requirements
To apply for the Benin eVisa, you will need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your arrival date and at least 1 blank page
- A recent passport-style photograph
- A return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Benin
- Sufficient funds for your stay
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for all travelers)
Full details are available on our Benin eVisa requirements page.
Who Is Eligible for the Benin eVisa?
Citizens of most countries worldwide are eligible to apply for the Benin eVisa online. This includes nationals of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and all EU member states. Some African nations enjoy visa-free access to Benin under bilateral agreements. Check the full Benin eVisa eligible countries list to confirm your nationality’s status.
Benin eVisa Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Benin eVisa is 3-5 business days. Applicants should submit their application at least one week before their planned departure to account for any processing delays. Once approved, the eVisa is sent by email and should be printed or saved on your device for presentation at the border. More details at our processing time page.
Benin Visa on Arrival
Benin also offers a visa on arrival at Cotonou International Airport for eligible travelers. However, it is strongly recommended to apply for the eVisa in advance to avoid queues and potential complications. Compare both options on our Benin eVisa vs Visa on Arrival page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my Benin eVisa?
Extensions are generally not available for the standard tourist eVisa. Travelers wishing to stay longer should contact the Directorate of Emigration and Immigration in Benin before their visa expires.
Is the Benin eVisa the same as a visa on arrival?
No – the eVisa is applied for online before travel and approved in advance. The visa on arrival is obtained at the port of entry. The eVisa is more reliable and recommended for most travelers.
Do US citizens need a visa for Benin?
Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Benin. They can apply for the eVisa online through evisa.bj. See our dedicated Benin eVisa for US citizens page.
What is the official Benin eVisa website?
The official Benin government eVisa portal is evisa.bj, operated by the Government of the Republic of Benin.
Benin eVisa for Different Nationalities
The Benin eVisa is accessible to travelers from virtually every country. Whether you hold a US, UK, Canadian, Australian, or European passport, the application process is identical and entirely online. Dedicated guides are available for US citizens, UK citizens, and EU citizens. Citizens of ECOWAS member states enjoy visa-free access. For a full breakdown by nationality, visit the eligible countries page.
About Benin – Quick Facts for Travelers
The Republic of Benin is a small but culturally rich country in West Africa, bordering Nigeria to the east, Togo to the west, Burkina Faso and Niger to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Cotonou is the largest city and economic capital, while Porto-Novo serves as the official capital. The country covers approximately 114,763 km² and has a population of around 13 million people.
Benin is best known internationally as the birthplace of Voodoo, the ancient Dahomey Kingdom and its royal palaces (UNESCO World Heritage), the Ganvié lake village, and the powerful historical memory of the Atlantic slave trade centered in Ouidah. The official language is French, and the currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). See our complete travel guide for more information on planning your trip.
Types of Benin eVisa Available
Travelers can choose from several eVisa options based on their needs. The standard 30-day single entry eVisa (50 EUR) is ideal for most tourists. Travelers who plan to make cross-border excursions to neighboring Togo or Nigeria should consider the 30-day multiple entry option (75 EUR). Those planning an extended stay should apply for the 90-day multiple entry eVisa (100 EUR). Business travelers and transit passengers have their own visa categories as well. See full details on our eVisa types page.
