Burundi is a small and landlocked country located in East Africa, which is endowed with natural beauty as well as rich culture. It is important that you understand the importance of a visa for international journeys. A visa is a formal authorization for you to enter a foreign country for a specific period and purpose. In this blog, we will provide an overview of the e-visa application for Burundi and eligibility criteria as well.
All visitors to Burundi from most countries are required to obtain a visa prior to entry. They are however, allowed to enter and stay for a maximum of 90 days without a visa in some countries. Depending on the reason for your visit and the duration, there are many kinds of e visas accessible for guests to Burundi. All e-visa requires particular criteria you must satisfy to be qualified.
In order to apply for a Burundi e-visa, you must complete an application form and submit supporting documents such as a passport with a minimum of six-month validity, one passport-sized photo among others needful for it. Depending on the particular type of a visa that one would want to get, there could be more specific requirements like having a business registration certificate, invitation letter from someone in Burundi or showing the bank statement among others.
The Burundi visa processing time depends on the visa category and the place of visa application. It is recommended that you make an early visa application to allow enough time to obtain the visa, after which you can now make arrangements for a flight as well as other necessary things.
A Burundi e-visa is a must have for most visitors to this beautiful and fascinating country. Understanding the visa requirements and procedures will see to it that your visit to Burundi, goes on smoothly.
Why Apply In For The Burundi E-Visa
The e-Visa (also known as Electronic Visas) is a digital travel permit that is often received by way of simple internet based visa application process thereby eliminating the usual heavy paperwork of applying for visas and streamlining the process of applying online for a visa. As such, countries worldwide have currently adopted these remote visa application systems, eliminating doubts on travel permission.
Usually, the  Burundi e-visa connect electronically to a passport. Candidates that are approved get an e-Visa by email, which they can print off and show when on the trip.
The necessity of a quicker, more effective process drove this amazing development in immigration policies. Eliminating the need for physical applications, tiresome waiting times, and unpleasant embassy visits, the Burundi e-visa is a digital form of the conventional visa. It has transformed how people approach their first travel plans and given them the freedom to seek for travel permission from anywhere in the globe.
Although utilisation of electronic visas shows a clear increasing trend, many still doubt their advantages and how they compare to the conventional visa application process.
When we compare the conventional visa application process with the online one, we find clear differences. Usually requiring an individual to visit the consulate or embassy, complete a lot of paperwork, and pay close attention to waiting periods. The Digital Visa Applications, on the other hand, may be finished from comfort of one’s house, faster and more simple.
These benefits help e-Visas to be more and more popular. Many people are drawn to the ease of Instant Visa Services in the fast-paced world of today where time is a prized commodity. Moreover, the openness of the e-Visa approval process gives candidates regular progress updates that comfort and assurance their pre-travel preparations demand.
Visa Policies for Burundi
Officially, Burundi has a visa policy whereby most visitors from other nations must acquire visas from foreign missions prior to their arrival. For those arriving at the Melchior Ndadaye Airport in Bujumbura, including via any of its land borders with surrounding nations, the government established a special visa-on-arrival programme.
For foreign nationals, these represent two of the three application choices. Arriving visitors granted visas are free to spend up to one month in Burundi.
Burundi also offers a unique e-visa programme for those who would want to confirm their visas before to arrival. Counting from the day they arrive in the nation, the e-visa programme is intended for short-term trips lasting up to thirty days.
Applications for E Visa are done online, hence the applicant must finish an online application form. They also have to pay a processing fee and include copies of their records to the application.
Although E visas are handled in three days or less, depending on some uncontrollable circumstances they might take up to five days; hence, let me remark that the application procedure takes less time than that of embassy applications.
They are also the greatest substitute for Burundi visa on arrival, which can force guests to wait for a somewhat long period. Furthermore take note that the Burundian e-visa is a single-entry visa.
Important Information About Burundi E-Visa
Here are some key information to keep in mind as you get ready to apply and head to Burundi following approval:
- Once approved, this electronic visa cannot be extended. Some guests are qualified for a longer stay while others are not.
- Make sure your schedule matches your e-visa and ask whether you qualify for extensions before you depart. If not, it is best you seek for a long-stay visa instead of an e-visa. Keep in mind that this visa is only valid for one use—not for several entries. Apply for a new entrance document so that you may save money by visiting Burundi more often using it for several trips.
- Using your e-visa, you may enter Burundi both by land and by air. Among all the airports in the nation, Melchior Ndadaye Airport in Bujumbura is most busy. Burundi is a landlocked nation so there are no marine routes.
- Try to print a copy of the visa after you acquire it. Travel with a copy as well; the immigration officials will want it to guarantee your valid tourist status.
- Visa Fee Payment: A credit or debit card will allow you pay the visa fee. Though it should contain enough to cover the application and transaction costs, the card does not have to be yours. You cannot submit the application without paying the visa cost, though.
- Always travel with the passport you used to apply for an e-visa. The e-visa relates to the passport; arriving with another passport will cause you to be denied access to the nation.
- Visitors arriving to Burundi with an e-visa should be reminded once more that the visa is exclusively for noncommercial social, travel, and business visits; it is not a work visa nor can you apply it for permanent residency. Users of it should apply it for the intended application for which it was issued.
- Always be law obeying when you are living in Burundi. Follow the law and keep within what your visa allows. The maximum length of stay is thirty days; hence, try not to spend one additional day. Also stay away from illicit activities conducted throughout your visit.
Burundi Visa Application Documents
Here we will review the primary eligibility requirements for an E-visa:
- A valid passport
- Enough money to help you throughout your stay
- A letter of invitation from a national host or sponsor (if necessary)
- Evidence of trip plans including, if necessary, a flight schedule or hotel reservation.
- A certain degree of health insurance coverage (should one be necessary)
- Evidence of a yellow fever vaccination, should one be necessary.
- Particular conditions depending on the kind of E-visa you are seeking for—that of a tourist visa or a student visa
- For further nation-specific information, keep in mind to consult the official government website of the nation you are visiting.
Advantages of Using An E-Visa
1. Time-Saving Properties
One of the advantages of an an e-Visa is its time-saving character. Online Visa Approval procedure results in a very quick process by eliminating the need to visit consulates or embassies and line-up. Unlike the weeks it could take via the conventional way, the digital visa application can be completed online and usually handled within a few days. E-visa application forms are readily available and may be completed online, therefore simplifying and expediating the process.
One special benefit of online immigration applications is they free candidates from long queues. Eliminating physical queue helps the e-Visa system greatly cut the time required to get a visa, therefore optimising the available time for the visitors.
2. Flexibility and Convenience
Convenience defines e-Visa services most of the time. Everyone with internet access can quickly apply for a visa from any place across the globe. This amazing adaptability has made the process more user-friendly so that visitors may handle their visa application from the comfort of their homes.
Given it’s an electronic visa, no physical documentation is required. This facilitates better efficiency and less effort in the procedure.
E-visas give more freedom to schedule your journey and stay in the nation since they often last more than standard visas. E-visa prices are generally less than conventional visa expenses, which makes them a reasonably affordable choice for visitors.
Travellers also have the freedom and choice to submit their applications at any point. The candidates have an unmatched convenience from their freedom to start, stop, and restart the application procedure. This degree of simplicity and adaptability has also helped this web-based visa system to become more and more popular.
3. Security And Openness
Safety-wise, the e-Visa technology beats the conventional processes. While the practice of physically handling documentation is eliminated, the remote visa application process consists in strong online security measures that protect an applicant’s information. The risk of sensitive data loss or theft is considerably reduced by these extra security levels.
Another plus of electronic visa applications is openness. The applicant can monitor their electronic visa inquiry and be updated about their visa processing status once their application is filed. For customers of the service, this unparalleled openness has strengthened confidence and trust.
4. Global Mobility
One cannot question the part e-Visa performs in increasing world mobility. The concept of effective worldwide networking has grown even more important as we move into a digital age. By allowing it simpler than ever to obtain travel authorizations, e-Visa services have transformed both personal and commercial travel and significantly influenced worldwide travel.
Convenience and speed of the digital visa application procedure let people and companies schedule and carry out overseas trips in less time. This advanced approach encourages easy networking across national borders, hence driving globalisation on into its next phase.
5. Saves Time
Applying for an E-visa online in a matter of minutes instead of scheduling an appointment, waiting in big lines and visiting the consulate or embassy will save time.
Travellers would find an E-visa to be a quick, affordable choice overall; nevertheless, it is advisable to take into account whether the nation you intend to visit allows such alternative. Remember also to get travel insurance for your E-visa trip abroad.
Who Needs A Visa To Enter Burundi
Foreign visitor from practically all nations making travel plans or preparations to visit Burundi must get a visa to Burundi before the trip to Burundi as the nation grants visa exemption only to citizen of the following countries:
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
How To Apply For Burundi E-Visa
Despite little or no expertise with internet applications, anyone may apply for an online visa in Burundi. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Complete The Online Form
On the Burundi e-visa website, you will find an online application form which you must accurately complete. The form features separate information fields, hence take your time to prevent errors.
2. Upload Your Documentation
The second step is soft copy uploading of all your travel records. Verify if the images are readable and clear. Pay the application fee with a credit or debit card; then, submit the form for review.
3. Get Your E-Visa
Though processing takes one to three days, once accepted the visa will be sent to your email. Print a copy just to be sure.
Types Of Burundi E-Visas Available
The several types of e-visas are listed below:
1. Tourist Visa
Those who want to visit Burundi for pleasure or recreation are intended users for the Tourist Visa. This visa lets guests enjoy the natural beauty, culture, and attractions of the nation. Two primary forms of the tourist visa are:
- Single-entry visas let one remain up to thirty days. Usually valid up to 90 days.
- Multiple-entry visas permit several entries inside a designated term.
2. Business Visa
The Business Visa is meant for visitors to Burundi that are engaged in business travel. This covers showing up for meetings, conferences, or investigating domestic corporate prospects. Though it is advised to apply in advance to prevent any delays, the business visa is valid for up to 90 days and can also be obtained upon arrival at the airport or border station.
3. Transit Visa
Travellers passing Burundi en route to another country are awarded the Transit Visa. Arriving at the airport or border post will allow one to acquire this visa, which is valid for maximum 72 hours. Transit passengers must show evidence of forward travel and enough money to support their short stay in Burundi​​.
For their next location, they also have to have paperwork including residency permits or visas. On call immigration officials will ask for these paperwork.
4. Courtesy/Diplomatic Visa
Those working for official or diplomatic missions to Burundi are awarded this visa. Government officials, diplomats, and anyone with diplomatic immunity are entitled it. The visa indicates the length and kind of the diplomatic mission, therefore determining the length of the stay.
How To Track Your E-Visa Application
Once your choice has been sent back to the Visa Application Centre, you will get an email update. You could also be able to get updates by SMS sent straight to your phone if you find it difficult to read emails. See whether the Visa Application Centre you are now visiting offers this service.
Your Burundi visa application online status can also be checked online. Access this service using your date of birth (DOB) together with the Reference Number shown on the Visa Application or receipt.
Burundi E-Visas Cost
- Single Entry Visa: $70
- Multiple Entries: $90
- Transit Visa: $40
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Burundi Have An E-Visa?
Yes, e-visas are available for visitors who meet all the required criteria.
2. How Do I Get A Visa For Burundi?
Here are some steps on how to get Burundi visa:
- Specify what type of visa is required for the intended travel.
- Choose the right visa for your trip.
- Begin your application.
- Commence with visa application.
- Schedule an appointment.
- Schedule a visit with Visa Application Centre by appointment.
- Pay charges.
- Review the status of your application.
- Get your passport.
3. How To Apply For An E-Visa?
Follow these steps to apply for any country’s e-visa:
- Visit the website of the official Embassy.
- Find the official website of the embassy or consulate in question.
- Submit requested Documents
- Make payment for the immigration fees.
- Get your visa.
4. What Documents Are Required For An E-Visa?
You will need a current passport, your most recent passport-sized photographs, and a letter of invitation to apply for an e-visa.
5. Does Burundi Accept The US Dollar?
Currently the official currency is Burundian Franc(BIF), but in some instances people may accept U.S. dollars. Most transactions are conducted in cash. Other than several high-end hotels and restaurants in Bujumbura, credit cards are almost never accepted.
6. Is It Possible To Acquire A Visa For Burundi Upon Arrival?
At airports within Bujumbura, or at any of the border counties or sea ports; should one make entry by land, all intending travelers can be issued with either visitor’s pass for purposes of sightseeing or investor’s permit. Tourists who arrive at the Bujumbura Airport will be able to get a 30-day visas, so as to enter the country in that time length or for a single visit only. It will also be possible to extend visas.
7. How Long Does An E-visa Application Take?
The regular processing time is seven days following application receipt.
Final Words
Having a Burundi e-visa speeds up vacation plans of tourists, and it’s a straightforward process. Any type of visa for your requirements (whether business, tourist or transit) can be accessed through an e-visa system.
This means that candidates can conclude necessary procedures without leaving their comfort zone since they are able to apply online without much difficulty. It involves completing an application form, uploading the necessary documents and paying for the visa.
The e-visa system offers greater security, flexibility and convenience, among other benefits. The digital form of the e-visa reduces the risk of data loss while eliminating the need for physical documentation. In addition, transparency in the process allows applicants to track their visa status online, providing them with peace of mind.
For a smooth trip to this beautiful land rich in culture, a good number of visitors rely on the Burundi e-visa. To plan a successful and fun filled journey to Burundi, it is advisable that you are familiar with the e-visa requirements and the application process. In order not to be caught up in any delays, make sure you go over your own citizen specific requirements and apply for an e-visa as early as possible before your intended dates of travel.