Many travellers consider Madagascar, an island nation off the southeast coast of Africa, their ideal destination because of its diverse range of wildlife, lively cultures, and stunning scenery. Recognising the importance of tourism for the country's economy, the government of Madagascar has streamlined the process for travellers to enter the country by introducing the e-Visa system.

This convenient approach allows visitors worldwide to easily apply for and obtain a visa to Madagascar online, bypassing the need to visit an embassy or consulate. Here's an essential guide to understanding the Madagascar e-Visa.

Madagascar e-Visa explained

The Madagascar e-Visa is an official document permitting entry into and travel within Madagascar. It is an electronic alternative to traditional visas issued by Madagascar's embassies and consulates. The e-visa system is designed to expedite the visa application process and make it easier for international travellers.

How many types of Madagascar e-visa are available?

There is currently only one type of Madagascar E-Visa, but it can be used for three purposes: tourism, business, or transit. The kind of visa you get will be determined by what you select during the application process. Here's a breakdown of the purposes:

• Tourism: This is the most common reason to get a Madagascar E-Visa. It allows you to visit the country for leisure, such as sightseeing, relaxation, or visiting friends and family.

Madagascar Longstay Visa

The long-stay visa (more than 90 days) works like a tourist visa. It is primarily for investors, expatriate workers, trainees, retirees, or those benefiting from family reunification laws. You must go to a consulate or the Embassy of Madagascar to get it.

• Business: If you travel to Madagascar to conduct business, such as attending conferences or meetings, you must select the business option when applying for your E-Visa.
• Transit: If you are only passing through Madagascar to another country, you must select the transit option when applying for your E-Visa. A transit visa typically only allows a short stay in the country, usually up to 24 hours.

Eligibility of Madagascar E-visa

The requirements to qualify for a Madagascar e-Visa are intended to simplify the visa application procedure, making it more efficient for travellers to visit this unique and beautiful country. Here are the essential eligibility criteria and considerations for those looking to apply for a Madagascar e-Visa:

Nationality

• Most nationalities are eligible: The Madagascar e-Visa is available to citizens of most countries. However, the list of eligible nationalities is subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the Madagascar e-Visa website or contact their consular services for the most current information.

Add a list of countries eligible for Madagascar E-Visa

Purpose of Visit

• Tourism and short business trips: The e-Visa is primarily intended for tourists and visitors coming for short-term business purposes. This includes sightseeing, visiting friends or family, cultural activities, short-term business meetings, negotiations, or conferences.

Visa Exemptions

• Visa exemption for certain nationalities: A few nationalities may be spared from needing a visa for brief visits. Confirming whether your nationality falls under this exemption before planning your travel is essential.

What are the required documents for the Madagascar E-Visa?

To apply for an eVisa to Madagascar, applicants must first ensure they meet the necessary online requirements, which are uniform across tourist, business, and transit visas. The essential requirements include:

• A passport that is still valid 6 months or more after the planned arrival date in Madagascar.
• A current email address will be used to send information regarding the Madagascar visa.
• A well-maintained credit or debit card is required to pay the visa fee.

After being approved, the eVisa will be delivered to the applicant via email. Travellers are urged to print out their eVisa and present it at Madagascar's border control for expedited entry. However, displaying a digital version of the eVisa on an electronic device is also acceptable.

According to Madagascar visa policy, arrivals in the country with an approved eVisa might need to present additional supporting documents to border officials, including:

• Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover their stay in Madagascar.
• Proof of return or onward travel arrangements.
• Evidence of having a yellow fever vaccination is necessary if the traveller was in a yellow fever endemic area within 6 months before arriving in Madagascar.

These requirements are designed to streamline the entry process and ensure that travellers are prepared for their visit to Madagascar.

How to Apply for a Madagascar E-Visa?

Applying for a Madagascar e-Visa is a straightforward and entirely digital process. Here's how you can secure your entry into this enchanting island nation:

• Begin by accessing the Madagascar e-Visa portal.
• Fill out the Madagascar e-Visa application form diligently, ensuring all your personal and travel details are correct.
• Attach the necessary documents, such as your passport's data page and a recent photograph of yourself.
• Complete the visa application fee payment using a valid credit or debit card.
• Await the approval of your e-visa, which will be sent directly to your email.

This hassle-free process makes it easier for travellers to plan their visit to Madagascar, ensuring they have all the required entry permissions before their journey.

Processing Time for Madagascar E-Visa

When planning your travel, understanding the timeline for visa processing is essential to ensure everything goes smoothly. For those applying for an e-visa, there are several processing options to suit different needs and schedules.

What is the cost of obtaining a Madagascar E-Visa?

The cost of a Madagascar e-Visa fluctuates based on several factors, including the visa category, the applicant's nationality, the number of entries permitted, and the chosen processing speed. To ascertain the precise fee for a Madagascar e-Visa, applicants should refer to theMadagascar e-Visa fee page.

It offers a detailed fee table or calculation tool, making it straightforward to identify and confirm the exact visa fee tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.

Madagascar E-visa Validity Period

The validity period of a Madagascar e-Visa may differ based on the kind of visa granted. Still, typically, it allows for either a single or multiple entries into the country. Here are the standard validity periods for Madagascar e-Visas:

• 15-day e-Visa: This is one of the most common options. A single entry and a maximum 30-day stay are permitted. For stays of 15 days or less, foreigners visiting Madagascar no longer need to pay a visa fee. There is a small border control fee, though.

• 30-day e-Visa: The 30-day e-Visa provides a more extended stay for those wishing to explore Madagascar. Similar to the 15-day visa, it usually allows for a single entry.

• 60-day e-Visa: This option caters to visitors who need an extended period in Madagascar. It's perfect for longer tourist visits or more prolonged business trips.

Travellers need to note that the validity period of their e-Visa begins from the date of entry into Madagascar, not from the date of visa issuance or application. Therefore, it's crucial to plan your travel dates accordingly to ensure your stay is within the permitted duration under your e-Visa's validity.

Additionally, travellers should be aware that the Madagascar e-Visa must be used within a specific period from its issuance date, often within a few months. Therefore, applying for the e-visa with your intended travel dates is advisable to ensure the visa is valid during your entire stay in Madagascar.

Urgent E-visa processing for Madagascar

For travellers needing to expedite their journey to Madagascar, the e-Visa system includes an option for urgent applications. This accelerated process is designed for individuals requiring travel documentation in a shorter timeframe due to last-minute plans or emergencies. Here's a breakdown of how the urgent application for a Madagascar e-Visa works:

The urgent application significantly reduces the standard processing time. While regular e-visa applications can take 4 - 6 Working Days, the urgent application process aims to deliver your e-visa within2 - 4 Working Days. This expedited service is invaluable for those in need of swifttravel arrangements.

Extension of Madagascar E-Visa

You cannot extend your Madagascar e-visa online. However, you can apply for an in-person extension at a Madagascar Immigration Office. Here's what you need to know:

• Eligibility: Extensions are granted for up to 90 days, but only before your visa expires. Overstaying incurs fines.
• Documents required:
• Passport and copies of its ID and entry stamp pages
• Completed application form (available at the office)
• Payment form (also available there)
• Proof of onward travel (flight ticket) in some cases
• Hotel booking confirmation (helpful but not mandatory)
• 2-4 passport photos

Choosing between Madagascar Evisa or Sticker Visa

You have both options for obtaining a visa for Madagascar: an e-visa or a sticker visa. Here's a breakdown of each:

E-visa

• Apply online from anywhere in the world.
• Convenient and time-saving.
• No need to visit a Madagascar embassy or consulate.
• Valid for tourism, business, or transit purposes (depending on the type of e-visa obtained).
• Currently offered for single entries with validity periods of 15, 30, or 60 days.

Sticker visa

• Obtained when you arrive at an entry point in Madagascar.
• It might require a longer processing time compared to an e-visa.
• It may require additional documentation compared to an e-visa.
• Valid for tourism purposes only.
• Offers stays of up to 60 days.

Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

The e-visa is the preferred option for most travellers due to its convenience and speed. However, if you cannot apply for an e-visa or your travel plans are uncertain, you can still get a sticker visa upon arrival in Madagascar.

What happens when my Evisa expires?

Unfortunately, you cannot do much with an expired Madagascar e-Visa. Here's the situation:

• Extensions: Extensions are possible for E-Visas, but only before they expire. You typically apply at an Immigration Office in Madagascar.
• Overstaying: Overstaying your visa is illegal and can lead to fines and difficulties leaving the country.

Here are your options:

• Depart Madagascar: This is the safest course of action. Make the necessary arrangements to depart before your current visa restrictions apply.

Contact Madagascar Authorities: (Contact the nearest Immigration Office in Madagascar to inquire about any possible exceptions in your case. However, be prepared for the possibility that they may not be able to help.)

Frequently asked questions