Can I trust third-party visa websites?

Generally, no. They are legitimate companies but charge heavy service fees for something you can do yourself on the government portal. Only use them if you have a complex multi-entry requirement that is too difficult to manage solo.

What if my visa is delayed?

Never book non-refundable flights until your visa is in hand. If a consular visa is delayed, contact your home country's foreign ministry to request an inquiry on your behalf.

Navigating Africa's Visa Requirements

Most African countries require a visa for non-residents, and processes range from e-visas to consular applications. Always confirm requirements on the official government website for each specific country at least 60 days before your departure, as policies can change overnight.

Check the IATA Timatic Database. Use the IATA Travel Centre website to get an immediate summary of requirements based on your passport and intended destination. This is the same tool airline staff use at check-in.
Identify the Visa Type. Distinguish between an E-Visa (online application, usually printed), Visa-on-Arrival (paid in cash/card at the airport), and Consular Visa (requires sending your physical passport to an embassy).
Prepare Your Document Stack. For almost every African visa, you will need a passport with at least 6 months of validity and 2-4 empty pages. Have digital and physical copies of your yellow fever vaccination certificate, travel insurance, and hotel bookings ready.
Use Official Portals Only. Avoid third-party agencies that charge exorbitant 'processing fees.' Search specifically for '[Country Name] official e-visa portal' and ensure the URL ends in a government domain (e.g., .go.tz or .gov.rw).
Account for 'Visa-on-Arrival' Risks. If a country offers visa-on-arrival, carry the exact amount in clean, post-2015 USD bills. Even if the website says they take cards, system outages are frequent and cash is the only guarantee of entry.

Can I trust third-party visa websites?: Generally, no. They are legitimate companies but charge heavy service fees for something you can do yourself on the government portal. Only use them if you have a complex multi-entry requirement that is too difficult to manage solo.
What if my visa is delayed?: Never book non-refundable flights until your visa is in hand. If a consular visa is delayed, contact your home country's foreign ministry to request an inquiry on your behalf.