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Benin Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

UK citizens must obtain an e-visa online before travel to Benin via https://evisa.gouv.bj/; Tourist e-visa is USD 25, valid up to 30 days single-entry, with processing typically 2–5 working days.

Guide last updated September 4, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond date of entry; must have at least one blank visa page.
  • Specific forms: No separate form; complete the Benin e-visa online application at https://evisa.gouv.bj/ and upload required documents.
  • Financial proof: No fixed minimum funds requirement published for the e-visa; you should have access to sufficient funds for your stay.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Have hotel/accommodation details ready; a return or onward ticket is recommended but not always required.
  • Photo spec: Digital passport-style photo 35x45 mm equivalent, white background, JPEG/JPG format, max 2 MB.
  • Biometrics: No separate biometrics appointment is required for the online e-visa; biometric collection may occur at border if applicable.
  • Travel health insurance: Not mandatory for Benin e-visa; strongly recommended to have travel medical insurance.

Visa types

  • Tourist e-Visa (Tourist Visa Electronique): Official name: Visa Touristique Électronique; Validity: 90 days from issue; Maximum stay: 30 days; Entry: Single; Approximate fee: USD 25.
  • Business e-Visa (E-Visa d'Affaires): Official name: Visa d'Affaires Électronique; Validity: 90 days from issue; Maximum stay: 30 days; Entry: Single; Approximate fee: USD 50.
  • Transit e-Visa (Visa de Transit Électronique): Official name: Visa de Transit Électronique; Validity: 7 days; Maximum stay: 3 days; Entry: Single; Approximate fee: USD 20.
  • Student e-Visa: Official name: Visa Étudiant Électronique; Availability: Not commonly issued online; may require embassy/consular processing; check portal for current options.
  • Work e-Visa: Official name: Visa de Travail Électronique; Availability: Not commonly issued online; may require embassy/consular processing; check portal for current options.

How to apply online

  • How to apply online: Use https://evisa.gouv.bj/; Steps: 1) Create an account or log in; 2) Complete the online form with personal details, passport information, and travel plans; 3) Upload documents: scanned biodata page, recent photo, and any supporting documents (hotel booking, return flight) if available; 4) Pay the visa fee online (USD or XOF); 5) Submit the application; 6) Receive e-visa approval by email; 7) Print the e-visa and carry it on arrival.
  • Fee (local + USD): Tourist USD 25; Business USD 50; Transit USD 20; exact local currency equivalents shown at checkout.
  • Processing time: Typically 2–5 working days; allow for weekends and holidays; you will receive the approved e-visa as a downloadable document or PDF attachment via email.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fees (USD) and approximate local currency equivalents: Tourist: 25; Business: 50; Transit: 20.
  • VFS/BLS service fee: Not applicable for e-visa; all processing is online through the official portal.
  • Total cost estimate: Depending on visa type, around USD 25–50 plus any payment processing charges.
  • Standard processing time: 2–5 working days.
  • Express/priority option: May be available at an extra online fee; check at checkout on the e-visa portal for current options.

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • How far in advance to apply: Aim to apply at least 7–14 days before travel; apply earlier if possible to account for any delays.
  • Common rejection reasons for UK applicants: Passport validity below 6 months, mismatch in name/date of birth between passport and application, photo issues (blurry, incorrect size/background), incomplete or incorrect information, or lack of supporting documents when requested.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: Benin e-visa is applied online via the official portal; there is no VFS/BLS handling for e-visas.
  • Travel advisories or bilateral notes: Always check the UK government travel advice for Benin and ensure your passport validity and visa status align with entry requirements; verify any health or vaccination requirements before travel.
  • Extension options inside Benin: Extensions are not commonly granted from within Benin; if you need a longer stay, you may need to apply for a longer-term visa from the Benin embassy/consulate abroad or depart and re-apply online if eligible.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.