Navigating visa requirements for multiple West African countries can be complex, but this detailed guide breaks down the process for each country. Follow these steps for a smooth application process.
Nigeria Visa
Requirements
Passport valid for 6+ months with 2+ blank pages
Completed online application form
Recent passport photograph (white background)
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking)
Return flight ticket
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Bank statement (last 3 months)
Employment letter or business registration
Invitation letter (for business visa)
Application Process
Visit portal.immigration.gov.ng
Create an account and complete application
Pay visa fee online ($160-180)
Schedule appointment at nearest Nigerian embassy/consulate
Submit documents and biometrics
Wait for processing (3-5 business days)
Collect visa or receive by mail
Tips for Nigerian Visa
Apply well in advance (2-4 weeks minimum)
Ensure all documents match exactly
Hotel booking should cover your entire stay
Be prepared for interview questions about your trip
Ghana Visa
Requirements
Passport valid for 6+ months
Completed application form
2 passport photographs
Yellow fever certificate
Proof of accommodation
Return ticket
Proof of sufficient funds
Travel itinerary
Application Options
Option 1: Embassy Application
Submit at Ghana embassy in your country
Processing: 5-10 business days
Cost: $60-100 depending on nationality
Option 2: Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Many nationalities qualify for VOA at Kotoka International Airport:
Apply online before travel
Pay $150 USD
Approval letter received via email
Visa issued upon arrival
Tips for Ghana Visa
VOA is convenient but costs more
Apply through embassy for longer stays
Keep all documents organized for arrival
Benin Visa (E-Visa)
Requirements
Passport valid for 6+ months (scan required)
Digital passport photograph
Proof of accommodation
Return flight booking
Credit/debit card for payment
Application Process
Visit evisa.gouv.bj
Create account and complete application
Upload required documents
Pay visa fee ($50 single entry, $100 multiple entry)
Receive approval within 24-72 hours
Print e-visa and present at entry
Types Available
Single Entry (30 days): $50
Multiple Entry (30 days): $100
Multiple Entry (90 days): $100
Tips for Benin E-Visa
Apply at least 1 week before travel
Keep digital and printed copies
E-visa valid for land and air entry
Togo Visa
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Togo offers one of the easiest visa processes in West Africa.
Requirements at Border/Airport
Passport valid for 6+ months
2 passport photographs
Proof of accommodation
Return ticket
$20-40 USD cash (exact amount preferred)
Process
Fill out arrival form
Submit documents at immigration counter
Pay fee
Receive 7-day visa stamp
Extend at immigration office if needed
Extension Process
Visit Lomé immigration office for extensions:
Additional 30 days: approximately $30
Requires passport photos and application form
Tips for Togo Visa
Have exact USD amount ready
Photos should be recent and clear
Keep extension office address handy
Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Visa
Requirements
Passport valid for 6+ months
Completed online application
Passport photograph
Proof of accommodation
Return ticket
Yellow fever certificate
Application Process (E-Visa)
Visit snedai.com or ci-visa.com
Complete online application
Upload required documents
Pay visa fee ($73-100)
Receive approval within 48-72 hours
Print e-visa for entry
Types Available
Single Entry (30 days): $73
Multiple Entry (90 days): $100
Express processing: Additional $25
Tips for Ivorian Visa
Apply minimum 1 week in advance
Ensure yellow fever certificate is valid
E-visa valid only for airport entry (not land borders)
For land entry, obtain visa at embassy
General Visa Tips for All Countries
Timeline
Start applications 4-6 weeks before travel
E-visas: minimum 1 week before
Embassy applications: minimum 2 weeks before
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Passport expiring within 6 months
Insufficient blank pages
Missing yellow fever certificate
Inconsistent information across documents
Poor quality photographs
Not printing e-visas
Documents to Carry Always
Original passport
Printed copies of all visas/e-visas
Yellow fever certificate (laminated recommended)
Passport photos (6-10 extras)
Hotel bookings for each country
Travel insurance documents
Cost Summary
| Country | Type | Cost (USD) |
|---------|------|------------|
| Nigeria | Tourist | $160-180 |
| Ghana | Embassy | $60-100 |
| Ghana | VOA | $150 |
| Benin | E-Visa | $50-100 |
| Togo | VOA | $20-40 |
| Côte d'Ivoire | E-Visa | $73-100 |
Processing Time Summary
| Country | Processing Time |
|---------|----------------|
| Nigeria | 3-5 business days |
| Ghana | 5-10 business days |
| Benin | 24-72 hours |
| Togo | On arrival |
| Côte d'Ivoire | 48-72 hours |
Need Help with Visas?
Evans Tours offers visa assistance services including:
Document review
Application guidance
Invitation letters
Accommodation bookings
Contact us for stress-free visa processing!
