Ivory Coast eVisa from Trinidad-and-Tobago

Planning a trip to West Africa is such an exciting move. If you’re coming from the beautiful islands of Trinidad and Tobago, the Ivory Coast (officially known as Côte d'Ivoire) offers a world of contrast—from the buzzing, modern streets of Abidjan to the serene, palm-fringed beaches of Assinie.

But before you start packing your bags and dreaming of Ivorian cocoa, there’s one important thing to sort out: your entry permit. The good news is that the process is now digital and much easier than it used to be. Here is everything you need to know about getting your Ivory Coast eVisa from Trinidad-and-tobago.

Do I need an eVisa for Ivory Coast if I’m a Trinidad and Tobago passport holder?

Yes, you do. While citizens of many West African countries can travel freely within the region, travelers from Trinidad and Tobago need to secure a pre-enrollment or "eVisa" before they land.

Think of the eVisa as a digital "OK to travel" letter. You apply online, get an approval document via email, and then the actual visa sticker is placed in your passport once you arrive at the airport in Abidjan.

How do I apply for an Ivory Coast eVisa online?

The application is handled through a digital portal. You don't need to visit a physical office or send your passport away in the mail. Here’s the typical flow:

1. Complete Application
   Fill out the online application form with your personal and travel details.
   


2. Upload Documents
   Submit the required documents, including a passport copy, photo, and any supporting materials.
   


3. Make Payment
   Pay the eVisa fee securely online using a credit card or other accepted payment methods.
   


4. Receive eVisa
   Once approved, you’ll receive your eVisa by email and can complete biometric enrollment upon arrival.

What documents do I need to apply for the Ivory Coast eVisa?

Keeping your documents organized will make the application a breeze. You’ll generally need:

Required Documents

Passport

Your passport must meet the following conditions:

• It should be valid for 6 months from your arrival date


• It must have 1-2 blank pages for entry stamps


• A clear and high-quality scanned copy is required

Passport Photo

You need to upload a recent photograph that:

• Was taken within the last 6 months


• It is in color with a white background


• Measures 35mm x 45mm


• Shows your face clearly without shadows

Travel Itinerary

You must provide details of your travel plans, including:

• Confirmed round-trip flight booking


• Hotel booking or accommodation proof


• A short travel plan (optional, but helpful)

What is the processing time for the Ivory Coast eVisa?

Most travelers receive their approval within: 

• Standard Processing: 6 to 9 working days


• Rush Processing: 4 to 7 working days


• Super Rush Processing: 3 to 5 working days

However, it is always a smart move to apply at least a week before your flight. I’ve heard of cases where it takes a bit longer if there’s a public holiday or a surge in applications, so don’t leave it until the last minute!

How long is the Ivory Coast eVisa valid for?

The eVisa is usually valid for 90 days from the date it is issued. This means you must enter the country within that three-month window.

How long can I stay in Ivory Coast with the eVisa?

The standard eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days. It is also a multiple-entry permit, which is a huge plus. This means if you want to pop over to a neighboring country like Ghana or Senegal and then come back to Ivory Coast, you can do so using the same visa, as long as it’s within the validity period.

What is the cost of an Ivory Coast eVisa for Trinidad and Tobago citizens?

The Ivory Coast eVisa Cost can vary depending on different factors. It is always best to check the current amount during the application process.

While I won’t list specific dollar amounts here (as they can fluctuate slightly based on exchange rates), expect to pay a standard fee during the online application.

Pro Tip: Make sure your card is cleared for international transactions before you try to pay, as some banks in Trinidad might block foreign payments for security reasons.

Is the eVisa fee refundable if rejected?

In some cases, 

• Refunds are allowed only if the application has not started processing.


• No refunds once processing begins or after a visa is issued.


• Refunds may be considered for health/emergency reasons, technical issues, or wrong visa type, but only before processing starts.


• If a visa is refused, the fee is non-refundable.


• Refunds go back to the same payment method.


• Processing time depends on your bank (4–17 business days).


• Exchange rate differences may affect the final refund amount.


• Refunds may be cancelled if customer-side issues occur.

Should You Apply for an e-Visa Through an Agent or the Government Website?

Downsides of Using the Government Website

1. User Experience Issues
   
   
   
   • Many government e?visa websites are not very user-friendly; the interface might be clunky, or instructions unclear.
   
   
   
   


2. Limited Help / Customer Support
   
   
   
   • If you run into problems (uploading documents, payment issues, technical bugs), support might be slow or not very responsive.
   
   
   
   


3. No Refunds
   
   
   
   • If your application is rejected or there is an error, you might not get a refund of the visa?fee component (depends on the country) — and there’s no “agent guarantee.”
   
   
   
   

Pros of Using an Agent / Travel Agency

1. Convenience / Time Saving
   
   
   
   • Agents can handle the entire process: filling out forms, formatting photo/passport scans, tracking status.
   
   
   
   


2. Higher Success Rate (Sometimes)
   
   
   
   • Experienced agents may make fewer mistakes and understand common pitfalls, reducing the chances of rejection.
   
   
   
   


3. Better Support
   
   
   
   • Agents often provide 24/7 customer support throughout — helpful if you're not confident with the visa process or paperwork.
   
   
   
   

Can I use the Ivory Coast eVisa for business or only tourism?

You’re in luck—the eVisa covers both tourism and business. Whether you are there to see the stunning Basilica in Yamoussoukro or attending a cocoa trade conference in Abidjan, the same online application works for both. Just make sure your "Proof of Travel Purpose" matches what you select on the form.

Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to enter Ivory Coast?

Absolutely. This is non-negotiable. Ivory Coast requires a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (the "Yellow Book") for Yellow Fever from all travelers. You will be asked to show this at the airport upon arrival. If you don’t have it, you might be denied entry or forced to get the shot right there at the airport (which isn't the most relaxing way to start a vacation!).

How can I check the status of my Ivory Coast eVisa?

After you apply, you can log back into the portal where you submitted your application using your reference number and passport details. You’ll also get email updates at every stage—from "Payment Received" to "Approved."

Do I need travel insurance for Ivory Coast?

While it’s not always a strict legal requirement to get the visa, it is highly recommended. Medical facilities in Ivory Coast can be expensive for foreigners, and having a policy that covers medical evacuation is a smart "just in case" move. Some application portals may ask you to upload proof of insurance as a supporting document.

Can I extend my eVisa stay in Ivory Coast?

Yes, it is possible, but you can’t do it online. You would need to visit the immigration office (Sûreté Nationale) in Abidjan before your current visa expires. It involves some paperwork and a bit of patience, so it’s usually easier to plan your trip within the initial 90-day window if possible.

Are currency exchange services available at the airport?

Yes. Once you land at Abidjan’s Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport, you’ll find exchange bureaus. They handle major currencies like Euros and US Dollars easily. The local currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF).

Are ATMs easily available in Ivory Coast?

In Abidjan and other major cities like San-Pédro or Yamoussoukro, ATMs are quite common. Look for banks like SGCI, Ecobank, or NSIA. They usually accept international Visa cards. However, if you are heading into more rural areas or smaller villages, cash is king, so withdraw what you need before leaving the city.

Can tourists buy a SIM card in Ivory Coast?

Yes, and it’s very easy. You can pick one up right at the airport or at any small shop in town. The main providers are Orange, MTN, and Moov. You’ll need to show your passport to register the SIM card. Data is relatively cheap, and the 4G coverage in cities is surprisingly good.

What is the best time to visit Ivory Coast?

The "sweet spot" is the dry season, from November to February. The weather is sunny but not overly humid, making it perfect for the beach or exploring national parks. From May to July, the rains can be quite heavy, which might make road travel a bit tricky.

Is alcohol allowed in Ivory Coast?

Yes, alcohol is widely available. You’ll find local beers (like "Brave" or "Castel") and plenty of imported wine. While Ivory Coast has a large Muslim population, especially in the north, it is a secular country and very relaxed about alcohol in bars, restaurants, and hotels.

Which medicines are restricted in Ivory Coast?

Standard over-the-counter meds are fine. However, if you carry strong painkillers or psychotropic medications, always bring the original prescription and keep them in their original packaging.

Important: Malaria is present in Ivory Coast, so talk to your doctor back in Trinidad about starting a course of anti-malarial tablets before you leave.

What are the emergency numbers in Ivory Coast?

It’s always good to have these saved:

• Police: 110 or 170


• Fire Department: 180


• Ambulance (SAMU): 185

Is public transport safe for tourists?

In Abidjan, the "Sotra" buses are affordable but can be very crowded and are prime spots for pickpockets. For long-distance travel between cities, there are large coach buses that are quite comfortable and reliable. However, for getting around town, most tourists stick to taxis.

Are taxis easily available in Ivory Coast?

Very! In Abidjan, you’ll see two types:

• Orange Taxis: These are "metered" (though you often negotiate the price before getting in) and can take you anywhere in the city. They are generally the safest and best choice for tourists.


• Woro-Woro: These are color-coded based on the neighborhood (e.g., green or yellow) and follow set routes. They are shared taxis and much cheaper, but a bit more chaotic.

Travel Tips for Your Trip

• Learn a few French phrases: English isn't widely spoken outside of high-end hotels. A simple "Bonjour" and "Merci" goes a long way.


• Carry Cash: While big hotels take cards, local markets and small "maquis" (open-air restaurants) only take CFA.


• Tipping: It's common to tip around 5-10% at restaurants if the service was good.

Ivory Coast eVisa FAQs

Can I enter via a land border with an eVisa? No. The eVisa is specifically for travelers arriving by air at the Abidjan International Airport. If you plan to drive in from a neighboring country, you'll need a different type of permit.

What if I lose my printed Pre-enrolment Certificate? You can log back into the portal and download it again. Always keep a digital copy on your phone and a backup in your email!

Do I need a return ticket? Yes, the airline or the immigration officer will often ask to see proof that you plan to leave the country.