How to Enter the Democratic Republic of Congo: Travel & Visa Guide

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a land of immense rivers, lush rainforests, rich culture, endless adventure, and investment opportunities. Whether you’re a tourist eager to explore Kinshasa’s vibrant streets, a business traveler heading into the mining regions, or a member of the Congolese diaspora returning home, understanding the entry rules is the first step.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know in simple steps, from passports and visas to tariffs and special conditions, so your journey into the DRC is smooth and stress-free.

What You Need to Enter the DRC

Every foreign visitor must carry a few essential documents:

• A valid passport or travel document

• A valid travel visa (tourist or airport visa)

• An International Vaccination Booklet with proof of vaccines (especially yellow fever)

• A return air ticket

Types of Visas Available

The DRC issues several types of visas, each designed for different travelers.

1. Flying Visa ✈️

• Issued directly at the entry point (except Kinshasa airport, where special authorization is required).

• Valid for 7 days only.

• Requires: application letter, passport copy, ID of caretaker/host, and payment of fees.

• Best for: quick visits or emergencies. Many travelers use this visa to explore Kinshasa’s culture, nightlife, and rising fashion scene

2. Airport / Port Visa

• For travelers arriving by air or sea.

• Short validity.

• Easy option for tourists and diaspora returning briefly.

3. Establishment Visas

These are long-term visas, perfect for professionals, entrepreneurs, missionaries, and researchers. Many also come for Congo’s cultural revival and growing opportunities in its capital

Types include:

• Ordinary Establishment Visa

• Work Establishment Visa

• Missionary / Scientific Visa

• Visitor’s Visa (for family or dependents)

Requirements usually include:

• Proof of residence in the DRC (at least 6 months)

• Valid passport (6+ months)

• Passport photos

• Vaccination card

• Certificate of good conduct (less than 3 months old)

4. Special Establishment Visa

• For investors and company promoters.

• Valid 5 to 10 years.

• Requires approval from the National Agency for the Promotion of Investments (ANAPI).

• Grants free exit and re-entry rights.

5. Permanent Establishment Visa

• For foreigners who have lived in the DRC for 15 years or more.

• Covers professionals in agriculture, trade, industry, or liberal professions.

• Valid for life, no need for re-entry visas.

Visa Tariffs (2025)

Here’s what you can expect to pay for visas (rates at time of publication):

• Special Settlement Visa (5 years): $653

• Special Settlement Visa (10 years): $700

• Permanent Establishment Visa: $1,500

• Ordinary Settlement Visa (doctors, lawyers, etc.): $700

• Work Establishment Visa: $653

• Airport Visa: $40

• Port Visa: $40

Key Travel Tips

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory; your International Vaccination Booklet will be checked.

• Duration: Always double-check the length of stay allowed on your visa. Overstaying can lead to fines.

• Money: Payments are typically in USD, so it's advisable to carry some cash.

• Residency: For long-term stays (work or business), begin the paperwork process early with ANAPI and the Migration Directorate (DGM).

• Wildlife: Don’t miss the chance to see bonobos in the wild, a unique experience only possible in Congo.

The DRC is not just a destination, it’s an experience. From Kinshasa’s nightlife

to Virunga’s volcanoes, from hydropower investment in the heart of africa, Powering the Future to the beat of Congolese rumba, this country offers unmatched adventure.

By preparing your travel documents and choosing the right visa, you’ll step into the DRC ready for discovery, business, or reconnection with your roots.