Madagascar visa for Canadian Citizens

Travelling to Madagascar, a country known for its unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, has become more accessible to Canadian citizens through the E-visa system. This guide provides detailed information on how to apply for a Madagascar E-visa, the types available, eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, processing times, and more.

Understanding the Madagascar E-Visa

The Madagascar E-visa is an electronic visa that allows travellers to enter and stay in Madagascar for tourism, business, or transit purposes without visiting an embassy or consulate. The E-visa is processed and issued online, making it a convenient option for Canadian citizens visiting Madagascar.

Types of E-Visas

Madagascar offers different types of E-visas for Canadian citizens:

• Tourist E-visa: This is suitable for those visiting Madagascar for tourism, including sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or other leisure activities.
• Business E-visa: This visa is designed for individuals visiting for business-related activities, such as meetings or conferences, but not for employment.
• Transit E-visa: This is for travellers passing through Madagascar en route to another destination.

Eligibility Criteria for Madagascar E-visa

Canadian citizens can apply for a Madagascar E-Visa, showcasing Madagascar's open approach to welcoming travellers from around the globe. Here are the specific requirements for Canadians:

Purpose of Visit: Canadians can select from different E-visa categories based on the reason for their trip.

Passport Requirements: Canadian applicants must have a valid passport for at least 6 months after their anticipated date of arrival in Madagascar, and it must have at least one blank page for stamps upon entry and departure.

E-Visa Application Form: An Madagascar E-Visa application form must be filled out electronically. Ensuring that all provided information accurately matches the details in your travel documentation is essential.

What are the requirements needed to obtain a Madagascar E-visa?

Canadian citizens interested in obtaining a Madagascar E-Visa must comply with the requirements to ensure a successful application process. Below is a detailed summary of these prerequisites: 

Passport Specifications: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for the necessary entry and exit stamps and be valid for a minimum of six months beyond your planned arrival date in Madagascar.

Completing the Online Application: It is crucial to accurately fill out the E-Visa application form on the official website, ensuring that all provided details match those in your travel documents.

E-Visa Application Fee: The fee associated with the E-Visa application varies depending on the visa type and length of the intended stay. Credit or debit cards are usually used for online payments.

Email Address: You have to enter a working email address to receive your E-Visa electronically once it has been processed and approved.

Additional Documents That May Be Required:

• Digital Photo: A recent, passport-style digital photograph with a white background is necessary. Any headgear worn for religious reasons must not obscure the face.
• Travel Itinerary: While not always mandatory, presenting a comprehensive travel itinerary, including flight details and accommodation reservations, can reinforce your application by demonstrating your travel intentions.
• Proof of Accommodation: Documentation such as hotel reservations or an invitation from a Madagascar local may be required to prove where you will be staying while there.
• Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Documentation proving you have plans to exit Madagascar, like a return or onward plane ticket, may be required to ensure you do not plan to overstay your visit.
• Evidence of Sufficient Funds: You should demonstrate that you have enough financial resources for your stay, either through bank statements or a sponsorship letter.

Madagascar E-visa application process for Canadian Citizens

Canadian citizens can conveniently apply for a Madagascar E-visa online, bypassing the need to visit an embassy or consulate. The online application process is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Here's a step-by-step guide distilled from multiple sources for ease of understanding:

• Visit the E-Visa Portal: Navigate to the Madagascar E-visa website to begin your application.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill in the form with accurate details about yourself, travel plans, and passport information.
• Document Upload: Digitally submit the required documents, typically including a scan of your passport and the passport bio page.
• Visa Fee Payment: Pay the application fee with a working debit or credit card via the online payment gateway.
• Receive Your E-Visa: After your application has been approved and processed, you'll get your E-visa via email. Printing this document and carrying it with you is important as you will need to present it upon arrival in Madagascar.

Fee payment for Madagascar E-visa

The price of a Madagascar E-visa for Canadian citizens can differ based on the visa category, the applicant's nationality, the number of permitted entries, and the preferred processing duration. To ascertain the exact fee, it's advisable to consult the Madagascar visa fee page, where a detailed fee chart or a fee calculator is available. This feature enables applicants to conveniently identify and confirm the cost of their visa tailored to their individual needs.

Madagascar E-visa Processing Time

Generally, applicants may anticipate receiving their e-visa around one week after submission, though this period can vary. It's wise to apply for the e-visa before the date of your trip in order to prevent delays.

For the latest and most accurate details on processing times, it's best to consult the official website for the Madagascar e-Visa. These processing periods can change based on the volume of applications or other factors.

Madagascar e-Visa Processing Periods

Madagascar E-visa Validity

The validity of a Madagascar e-visa begins from the date it is issued and extends for a period of up to 90 days. This validity window allows travellers to enter Madagascar anytime within those 90 days. However, the duration of stay in Madagascar is determined by the type of e-visa selected during the application process, with options typically including 15, 30, or 60 days. Travellers need to plan their visit within the validity period of the e-visa to ensure compliance with Madagascar's immigration policies.

Extending a Madagascar E-visa for Canadian Citizens

Canadian citizens in Madagascar who wish to extend their stay beyond the duration initially granted by their e-visa can follow a specific procedure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigate the process:

• Visit Immigration: Go to the nearest immigration office in Madagascar before your e-visa expires, ideally a few days prior.
• Explain Your Reason: Be ready to provide a valid reason for your extension, such as health issues or further exploration desires.
• Provide Additional Documents: You may need proof of sufficient funds, a detailed activity plan, or a letter explaining the reason for your extension.

What are the top 10 things to do in Madagascar?

Madagascar offers many unique experiences thanks to its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and extraordinary wildlife. Here are the top 10 things to do in Madagascar for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep dive into nature's wonders:

1. Explore the Avenue of the Baobabs

This iconic row of ancient baobab trees, some over 800 years old, presents a breathtaking landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset. It's a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.

2. Visit Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Home to the indri, the largest living lemur, this park offers a chance to see these creatures up close in their natural habitat, along with other species of lemurs, birds, and reptiles.

3. Relax on Nosy Be

Nosy Be, Madagascar's premier beach destination, is known for its sunny skies, clear waters, and fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. It's perfect for snorkelling, diving, and relaxation.

4. Discover Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

A World Heritage Site of UNESCO, the region is well-known for its varied wildlife and "tsingy" limestone karst pinnacles. The rugged terrain offers adventurous hiking opportunities.

5. Tour the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga

Ambohimanga, a historic town that used to be the residence of Madagascar's royalty, is a sacred site that provides insight into the island's cultural heritage and history.

6. Trek to the Peak of Montagne d’Ambre National Park

This park is renowned for its lush rainforest, waterfalls, crater lakes, and diverse fauna, including several species of lemurs. It's a hiker's paradise with trails for all levels.

7. Dive and Snorkel in Ifaty

The coral reef system off the coast of Ifaty is teeming with marine life, which makes it a great place for snorkelers and divers looking to explore Madagascar's underwater biodiversity.

8. Wander Through Antananarivo

The capital city, with its vibrant markets, historical sites, and cultural institutions, offers a lively introduction to Malagasy urban life. Don't miss the Rova, a royal palace complex offering panoramic city views.

9. Visit the Pirate Cemetery on Île Sainte-Marie

Steeped in legend, this unique cemetery on the small tropical island of Île Sainte-Marie is believed to be the final resting place of several 17th and 18th-century pirates.

10. Explore Isalo National Park

Famous for its Jurassic sandstone formations, deep canyons, and oasis-like pools, Isalo National Park is ideal for trekking and spotting ring-tailed lemurs and other wildlife.

For more details, the Madagascar Embassy in Canada

For those seeking more information or requiring assistance with travel to Madagascar, the Embassy of Madagascar in Canada is your primary point of contact. Below are the contact details:

• Embassy Name: Embassy of Madagascar

Address: 3 rue Raymond, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Important Note: Double-check the exact address for any updates by searching online for "Madagascar Embassy Ottawa")

Frequently asked questions