Benin
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Benin’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Benin set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Beninese Embassy in France (in French).
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Benin.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa to enter or travel through Benin.
For further information on entry requirements, contact the Beninese Embassy in France (in French).
Applying for a visa
Apply for a Benin visa online at least 7 days before your arrival date. You will get your visa when you arrive at Cotonou airport.
Visas for Nigeria, Ghana and Togo
You cannot get entry visas for Nigeria, Ghana or Togo in Benin. For onward travel you must apply for visas before travelling to Benin.
Vaccine requirements
To enter Benin, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.
For more details about health entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Benin guide.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Benin (in French). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.