Last updated: January 2025
At the heart of Central Africa lies the Democratic Republic of Congo, inviting French citizens to experience its stunning natural wonders, vibrant cultures, and growing opportunities. From the lush rainforests of the Congo Basin to the bustling streets of Kinshasa, the DRC offers a unique mix of adventure and exploration. Whether you're interested in rich biodiversity, business ventures, or exploring history, your journey to the DRC requires careful planning to fully appreciate its diverse landscapes and welcoming people.
What is a Democratic Republic of Congo e-visa?
A DRC e-visa is an electronic visa to billet the Democratic Republic of Congo, made available to South African citizens for a period of 7 days to 30 days for each entry, and applicable for purposes such as tourism, business, and family reunification. This E-visa applies online, giving people freedom from visiting an embassy or its consulate in person.
DRC E-visa: Key Features
Convenience: The application can be filled out online from anywhere, and all processes are simplified.
Types of E-visa: E-visas are available for various purposes, such as tourist, business, diplomatic, transit, and family reunions.
Validity: The validity period of the E-visa varies according to the type of the visa. For tourist visas, it is normally from a minimum of 7 days to 30 days, but for others, the validity differs.
Types of DRC Visa for French Citizens
Democratic Republic of Congo offers several types of visas to French citizens. Here is a table showing the most common types of e-visas available:
|
Visa Type |
Description |
|
Specific Flying Visa |
Granted for particular purposes, such as diplomatic missions or specialised projects. Requires an invitation from the DRC government or an accredited organisation. |
|
Family Visit Flying Visa |
Designed for visiting family members in the DRC. Requires proof of familial relationships. |
|
Ordinary Visit Flying Visa |
Suitable for a range of travel needs, including: |
|
-Business Visa |
For short-term business trips. Requires proof of business engagements and financial stability. |
|
-Transit Visa |
Allows a 7-day stay for those transiting through the DRC. Requires proof of onward travel plans. |
|
-Tourist Visa |
Intended for exploring the DRC's landscapes and culture. Requires evidence of travel arrangements, accommodations, and sufficient financial resources. |
Democratic Republic of Congo Requirements for French Citizens
- Valid Passport: Your passport has to be valid for at least six months from the date of departure from DRC, with at least two blank visa pages.
- Required Passport Photo: Digital passport photo on white background.
- Travel Itinerary: Attach an itinerary showing the dates of entry and exit, places you are going to visit in DRC, and mode of transportation.
- Proof of Accommodation: Attach confirmation documents from booked hotels or intended places of accommodation for the duration of stay in the DRC.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Attach proof of the yellow fever vaccination, which is a requirement for entry into the DRC.
- Application Fees: Please pay the e-visa application fee online with a credit or debit card, as indicated on the official application page.
Application Process of DRC E-visa for France Citizens
Here is a step-by-step guide to follow when applying for a DRC e-visa from France:
Gather Documents Required: Gather all documents necessary, from your passport to any other supporting document. Have it translated into English in case it is in another language.
Online Application Form: To apply for a DRC E-visa, visit the official website and either create an account or sign in if you already have one. Fill out the online DRC E-visa application form accurately and truthfully.
Upload Documents Needed: Scan and upload all the required documents. Documents should be clearly visible and clear.
Pay Visa Fee: Make the payment for Visa by Credit/Debit Card. The amount will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, and it shall be provided on the official E-visa Portal.
Submit Application: Check all the information and documents carefully for correctness, then submit your application.
Wait for Processing: Processing normally takes 11 - 13 Working Days. You will receive updates via email.
Get Your E-visa: If approved, you will receive your E-visa in your email. Print out a hard copy to carry along.
Enter DRC: On arrival, you will be expected to present a printout of the E-Visa, along with your passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds, and a yellow fever international vaccination certificate.
Tips for a Seamless e-Visa Application
Apply Early: The e-Visa procedure is faster. However, applying well before the intended travel date will ensure any unforeseen delays are accounted for.
Verify Document Details: Ensure all documentation is accurate and has no missing parts to avoid having the application rejected.
Check Application Status: Monitor the email and the e-Visa portal for any communication regarding your application status.
DRC E-Visa Processing and Fees for France Citizens
Fees of DRC e-Visa may differ depending on the type of visa—tourist, business, or family visit—the nationality of the applicant, the duration of stay, and the preferred processing duration. Here is a breakthrough of the processing time:
- Normal Processing: 11 - 13 Working Days, for individuals without very urgent travel plans.
- Urgent Processing: 8 - 11 Working Days. There is an additional fee to be paid.
- Super Urgent Processing: This assures an individual processing time within 5 - 8 Working Days who has travel plans more urgently. There is an additional fee to be paid.
Applicants from France need to verify the available fees and processing times from the DRC e-Visa fees page. As such details may at times change, it is best to be sure by consulting the DRC e-Visa website for the most recent information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, French citizens do need a visa to travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The DRC e-visa procedure is the electronic way of getting a visa.
No, French citizens should apply for a visa before travelling to the DRC.
You may be able to apply for an extension before the expiry of the current visa through the official E-visa website. This will involve the submission of a renewal application with the required documents and the payment for renewal.
No, an e-visa is not valid for work purposes. French citizens wishing to work in Democratic Republic of Congo will need to apply for a work visa.
Processing takes 11 - 13 Working Days, so apply in advance before your intended travel date.
Content Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in January 2025, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and consulates to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.