Passport/Visas

Passports: Valid passport for at least six months required by all.

Visas: Required by all except nationals of Congo (Dem Rep), Rwanda and Uganda. Passengers arriving at Bujumbura airport from countries where Burundi does not have diplomatic representation can obtain visas on arrival, providing they have previously informed their travel agency of their passport number, identity and flight details. Those who are continuing onto a third country within 72 hours may also obtain a visa upon arrival. It is better to obtain a visa in advance from the nearest Burundi embassy.

Types of visa and cost: Tourist or Business: US$80 or US$40 (non-US citizens); single- or multiple-entry. The validity of the visa is at the discretion of the Immigration Department. A transit visa is not required for passengers continuing their journey to a third country if staying up to 24 hours, provided holding valid onward documentation and not leaving the airport. If staying up to 72 hours, a fee of US$10 is required. A Re-entry Permit is required for all alien residents.

Application to: Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy); see Contact Addresses section.

Application requirements: (a) Valid passport. (b) Three application forms (requests for application forms should be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope). (c) Three passport-size photos. (d) Return ticket or copy of flight itinerary, plus proof of accommodation. (e) Fee, payable in cash, postal order or company cheque. (f) Stamped, self-addressed envelope for recorded delivery. (g) For business visas, a letter from the applicant’s employer and the sponsoring company in Burundi. (h) Yellow fever vaccination certificate, if applicable.

Working days required: Two. Applications should be made as far as possible in advance of the intended date of departure. A rush fee of US$25 is available.