The Electronic Visa is Now Available in Cameroon: An Opportunity for Foreign Investors

According to information made public on April 6, by the Minister of External Affairs, this measure has been in effect since April 30, 2023.

A press release from the Minister of External Affairs specifies that:
"As of April 30, 2023, all visa applications for Cameroon will be processed online through the platform www.evisacam.com." This is in accordance with the decree outlining the application procedures of Law No. 97/012 of January 10 regarding the conditions of entry, stay, and departure of foreigners in Cameroon, signed by President Paul Biya on March 2, 2023.

The issuance of the electronic visa is subject to certain conditions and steps, which are outlined below:

Steps for Obtaining the E-Visa

According to the press release from the Minister of External Affairs, the process begins with online registration. Visa applicants are required to visit the online platform www.evisacam.cm to create a user account. After activation, applicants will need to fill out a questionnaire (providing personal information, passport details, and the type of visa they are applying for), and upload the following documents:

• A copy of their passport
• Their flight tickets
• An invitation letter or proof of lodging

The second step is the payment of the e-visa fee. Once the form is completed, applicants can pay the e-visa fee using a Visa or Mastercard credit card, or PayPal. After payment, applicants will receive a confirmation email or message.

The third step involves processing the application at the relevant diplomatic mission or competent consular post, which is geographically closest. The press release highlights that applicants who are far from these posts will receive an online visa authorization with a QR code.

For applicants residing in towns where a competent post is located, they will receive an appointment notification via email or message for biometric enrollment. The processing time typically takes 72 hours, though it can be expedited to 24 hours in case of express entry.

The final step is the visa issuance, which takes place on the scheduled appointment day after biometric registration.

Who is Eligible for the Electronic Visa?

The press release from the Minister of External Affairs specifies that only individuals arriving via air are currently eligible for the e-visa. However, e-visa control posts for land and sea entries will be gradually established.

It is important to note that the visa will be stamped either at entry control posts for applicants who have received an online visa authorization, or at a Cameroonian embassy or competent consulate for applicants who have completed biometric enrollment.

Benefits of the E-Visa System

The Cameroon e-visa system is designed to make Cameroon a more attractive destination, address complaints from the Cameroonian diaspora, and align with international standards.

In conclusion, the electronic visa system not only aligns Cameroon’s consular processes with international standards but also provides an opportunity for all, particularly investors, who will save valuable time by easily obtaining this essential document.

Reine Tsafack
Compliance Officer