Niger

Visas

Visas are required by non-West African citizens. Acquiring visas outside Africa is generally straightforward, although you’ll need three photos, proof of yellow-fever vaccination, recent bank statements and proof of onward travel. Passports must be valid for six months after your Niger exit date. Visa costs US$35 to €50. There’s less hassle obtaining visas in Africa.

Some visitors entering from a country without Nigerian diplomatic representation (eg Burkina Faso) have been discretionally issued visas at the border.

Visa extensions

For a visa extension, take two photos, your passport and CFA20, 000 to Direction de la Surveillance du Territoire (73 37 43, ext 249; Rue du Président Heinrich Lubké, Niamey; 8am-12.30pm & 3.30-6.30pm Mon-Fri). They’re typically processed the same day.

Algeria

Niamey’s Algerian embassy only issues visas to Niger residents. However, Agadez’s consulate issues visas if you have an invitation letter from an Algerian travel agency, your vehicle’s carte grise (green card) and three colour photos.

Benin

Transit/three-month single-entry/three-month multiple-entry visas cost CFA10, 000/CFA15, 000/CFA20, 000. Two photos are required; the process takes two days. Forty-eight hour transit visas (CFA4000) are available at Malanville, with extensions available in Cotonou.

Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Senegal & Togo

The French Consulate grants three-month visas for these nations. Each visa costs CFA23, 000 and requires one photo and a photocopy of your passport. Service takes 24 hours.

Chad

For a one-month visa you’ll need two photos, CFA15, 000 and a pleasant demeanour (trust us!). Service takes 24 hours.

Mali

One-month single-entry visas cost CFA20, 000, require one photo and are issued in 24 hours.

Nigeria

Two photos and CFA21, 000 to CFA27, 400 should land you a visa (though they’re fickle). Applications accepted Tuesday and Thursday (10am to 1pm).