West Africa · BJ · COO
Benin entry requirements
What you need to enter Benin: visa rules by passport, vaccines, arrival airports and practical details for your trip.
Travel advice. Some regions have security risks. Check your foreign ministry's travel advice for the areas you plan to visit.
Entry rules change often. We checked these on 27 October 2026 against the sources below. Confirm with the official portal before you book.
Visa rules by passport
| Passports | Entry | Fee | Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| All 14 passports we cover | eVisa | €50 | Up to 30 days |
Most EU passports: €50 for 30 days single entry, €75 for 30 days multiple entry, €100 for 90 days multiple entry. A yellow fever certificate is required.
Detailed guide for your passport
Health and vaccines
Yellow fever. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for all arriving travellers (usually from 9 months or 1 year of age).
Malaria. Malaria is present across most of the country. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarial tablets.
Routine vaccines should be up to date. Travel clinics commonly also discuss hepatitis A, typhoid and, for longer rural stays, rabies. Book 6 to 8 weeks before departure.
Practical details
- Capital
- Porto-Novo
- Currency
- West African CFA franc (XOF)
- Languages
- French, Fon, Yoruba
- Plug types
- C, E
- Best time
- November to March
- Main airports
- Cotonou (COO)
Highlights of Benin
- Ouidah and the Route des Esclaves
- Ganvié stilt village
- Pendjari National Park
Frequently asked questions
Do EU citizens need a visa for Benin?
Yes. Most EU passport holders need a visa (evisa); the fee is €50.
Is a yellow fever vaccination required for Benin?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for all arriving travellers (usually from 9 months or 1 year of age).
Is there malaria in Benin?
Malaria is present across most of the country. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarial tablets.
What is the best time to visit Benin?
November to March is generally the best time to visit.
What currency is used in Benin?
The currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Cards work in cities and larger hotels; carry some cash for markets and rural areas.
Sources
- Official Benin visa portal
- WHO: Yellow fever vaccination requirements, country list
- Wikipedia: Visa requirements for German citizens (EU reference)
- Wikipedia: Visa requirements for British citizens
- Wikipedia: Visa requirements for United States citizens
Spotted a rule that has changed? Email hello@bemba.com with a link to the source.