How to Apply for a DRC Tourist Visa: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know about obtaining a tourist visa for the Democratic Republic of Congo — from the online e-visa portal to embassy applications and visa on arrival.
Visa Types
- Tourist Visa (Visa Ordinaire) — for leisure travel, wildlife trekking, and cultural visits
- Business Visa — for trade delegations, conferences, and investment meetings
- Transit Visa — for travellers passing through the DRC (up to 7 days)
Online E-Visa Application
The DRC government offers an electronic visa system. The process takes 5–10 business days and costs approximately €92–€170 depending on your nationality and processing speed.
- Visit the official DRC e-visa portal
- Create an account and select "Tourist Visa"
- Upload required documents: passport (6+ months validity), passport photo, proof of accommodation, return flight booking
- Pay the visa fee online
- Receive your e-visa approval via email
- Print the approval letter and present it on arrival
Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Return or onward flight booking
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Processing Times & Costs
Standard processing: 5–10 business days (€92). Express processing: 2–3 business days (€170). Visa on arrival may be available at N'Djili International Airport (Kinshasa) and Goma International Airport, but this is not guaranteed — always apply in advance.
Common Rejection Reasons
- Passport with less than 6 months validity
- Missing yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Incomplete application or missing documents
- Blurry or non-compliant passport photos