Cameroon, a West African country, is renowned for its diverse wildlife, national parks, and unique culture. It offers a blend of historical richness and various visitor activities like trekking, safaris, and cultural tours. Foreign tourists exploring this vibrant destination must obtain a Cameroon visa before arrival. Cameroon offers several visa types, including tourism, transit, and business, all available in electronic format, catering to international visitors planning a short stay.
Cameroon Travel Tips Audio Guide Covering Safety, Culture, and More
Before diving into the visa details, watch this brief video showcasing Cameroon's natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Let it inspire your travel to this diverse and vibrant country.
Knowing the Objective and Expiration Date of a Tourist Visa for Cameroon
A Cameroon Tourist Visa grants foreign nationals up to 90 days in Cameroon for tourism, allowing them to visit national parks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. This visa aims to boost tourism and showcase Cameroon's diverse attractions, including its wildlife reserves, beaches, and historical landmarks.
Applicants must provide travel details, financial proof, a completed application form,a recent photo, and a passport valid for six months past their stay. The visa is non-extendable, requiring holders to leave before expiry and reapply for return visits. This visa facilitates the exploration of Cameroon's rich cultural and natural heritage.
What are the different types of Cameroon Tourist Visa?
Cameroon offers several types of tourist visas to accommodate different travel needs and durations of stay for tourists. The primary categories of tourist visas include:
- Transit Visa: This visa is intended for travellers passing through Cameroon, and it is valid for a maximum of 5 days. This visa suits tourists who have a layover in Cameroon and wish to explore the country briefly.
- Short-stay Tourist Visa: This visa is typically issued for tourism purposes, allowing travellers to stay in Cameroon for up to 180 days. It's designed for those looking to experience Cameroon's culture, wildlife, and scenic beauty on short trips.
- Long-stay Tourist Visa: For tourists planning a more extended visit to Cameroon, this visa offers a stay ranging from six months to one year. It's ideal for travellers who wish to explore the country or have other comprehensive long-term tourism-related plans.
- Visa for Minors: Specifically designed for travellers under 18 wishing to visit Cameroon for tourism. This visa category addresses minor travellers' unique requirements and protections.
Who Can Apply for a Cameroonian Tourist Visa?
Cameroon Tourist Visa Eligibility Criteria
- Eligible countries: Applicants should check their visa-eligible countries before completing the application form.
- Valid Passport Requirement: Applicants need a passport with a minimum of six months validity from the planned entry date into Cameroon.
- Purpose of Visit: The visit should be aimed at tourism, leisure, or visiting friends and family within Cameroon.
- Financial Stability: Individuals must demonstrate adequate financial resources for their stay in Cameroon.
- Employment Prohibition: Applicants should not seek employment or engage in commercial activities during their visit.
- Character and Legal Standing: A clean criminal record and no history of visa infractions in Cameroon or elsewhere are mandatory.
- Required Document: Applicants should have all required documents.
It is crucial to remember that fulfilling the requirements does not ensure that a tourist visa for Cameroon will be granted.
Documents Required to Apply for a Cameroonian Tourist Visa
General Requirements for All Applicants
Passport: Must have at least 6 months validity above the planned duration and two blank pages.
Visa Application Form: Fully completed and signed with all necessary details.
Passport Photos: Two recent photos with a white background.
Flight Itinerary: Round-trip flight booking or proof of reservation.
Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings or other lodging arrangements in Cameroon.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory for all entrants.
Financial Proof: Documentation proving there is enough money, like bank statements or a letter from the employer.
Travel Insurance: Coverage proof for the duration of the visit.
Letter of Invitation: If applicable, from a host, travel agency, or hotel in Cameroon.
Additional Notes
- Parental Consent Form: This form is needed for minors under 18 travelling without parents or legal guardians.
- Varied Requirements: Additional documentation might be necessary based on the applicant's age, nationality, purpose and specific circumstances.
Applying for a Tourist Visa to Cameroon: Application Procedure Described
1. Completing the Application Form
- Portal Access: Go to the Cameroon e-visa website and click the “Cameroon visa application form” option given on the menu bar.
- General Details: Input your details as they appear on the application form, like nationality, name, D.O.B., gender, passport details, occupation, current city, etc. and then click “Next”.
- Add documents: Insert documents like passport, vaccination certificates, Proof of visit reason, sufficient funds, accommodation, etc.
- Select processing time: Choose the processing time for the visa application to be sent to your registered email.
2. Application Submission
- Final Review: Ensure all entered details are accurate before submission.
- Submission: Click "Submit" and record your application number for future reference.
3. Fee Payment
- Payment Options: Pay application fees via debit/credit card or Western Union.
- Confirmation: Receive a payment confirmation email to ensure transaction security.
Our application process aims to be as simple and safe as possible, and if approved, your e-visa will be emailed to you.
How much is the tourist visa for Cameroon?
The cost of a Cameroon eVisa varies according to its kind and term. The most recent information about fees can be found by visiting the Cameroon visa fee page.
Cameroon E-Visa Fee Depends on-
- Stay Duration Impact- The intended length of stay influences the visa cost, with longer durations typically requiring higher fees.
- Nationality-Based Fees- Reciprocity agreements between countries can lead to varied fees for applicants from other nations.
- Expedited Processing Charges- Choosing rush or super rush processing options for faster application processing incurs additional charges.
- Additional Service Costs- Opting for extra services like multiple entry permissions or specific processing requests may affect the overall fee.
Cameroon E-Visa Processing Times
Normal Processing
A standard option is available for processing your visa application, which takes 9 - 11 Working Days.
Rush Processing
Expedited service for quicker processing within 7 - 9 Working Days with an extra charge of 99 USD.
Super Rush Processing
Our fastest option is to ensure your application is processed within 5 - 7 Working Days for immediate travel needs with an extra charge of 139 USD.
Can I extend my Cameroon tourist visa while in Cameroon?
- Contact the authorities or your sponsoring organisation early for visa extensions in Cameroon to avoid overstaying penalties.
- Tourist visas may be extended up to 90 days with a valid reason at the Cameroon Immigration Office.
- Business and work visa extensions are more complex and require employer or authority approval.
- Your conduct and activities in Cameroon can affect the success of your application.
- There's no extension guarantee, so carefully plan your travel and visa timing.
Why Should Tourists Visit Cameroon?
Here are some reasons why tourists should consider visiting Cameroon:
- Breathtaking natural beauty:
- Diverse landscapes: From the volcanic mountains and rainforests of the west to the long, sandy beaches of the coast and the arid plains of the north, Cameroon boasts a remarkable variety of ecosystems.
- Wildlife encounters: Spot gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, giraffes, and over 850 species of birds in national parks like Korup and Waza.
- Rich cultural heritage:
- Over 250 languages spoken: Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Cameroonian culture, influenced by its numerous ethnic groups.
- Traditional villages and historical sites: Explore ancient ruins, palaces, and towns that showcase the country's unique history and traditions.
- Thriving art scene:
- Exquisite handicrafts: Discover a treasure trove of hand-woven textiles, masks, sculptures, and paintings reflecting the country's artistic heritage.
- Affordable travel:
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other African countries: Enjoy a budget-friendly travel experience in Cameroon, with affordable accommodation, transportation, and food options.
FAQ
A Cameroon Tourist Visa is a document provided to international visitors intending to explore Cameroon for tourism and sightseeing.
You can apply for a visa to Cameroon by completing the online application form.
Yes, when applying for a Cameroon Tourist Visa, a certificate of yellow fever immunisation must be included in the necessary documentation.
No, a person holding a tourist visa to Cameroon is not permitted to work there. You must apply for a business visa or a work permit to work in Cameroon.
A letter of invitation is not a compulsory requirement for applying for a Cameroon Tourist Visa, but Cameroon authorities might request it during the visa application process.
If your Cameroon visa is denied:
- Try to understand why: Look for it in the rejection notice or contact the embassy/consulate for general guidance.
- Review requirements: Ensure you submit all documents wholly and correctly.
- Address the issue: If documents are missing, gather them. If it's financial proof, provide more substantial evidence.
- Re-apply (if applicable): Re-apply once the issue is fixed, but check for waiting periods.
- Consider professional help: Visa consultants or travel agents can offer guidance and assistance.
For entry into Cameroon, travellers must have a yellow fever vaccination if they are 9 months or older. It's also advised to be current with routine vaccinations like MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, and the flu shot.
Depending on your itinerary, vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, and rabies may be recommended. Speak with a medical professional or travel medicine expert at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to ensure all vaccination requirements and recommendations are met promptly.
