Cameroon E-Visa: What to Expect at the Airport

  The Cameroon e-visa system has made travel for Cameroonians in the diaspora much easier. If you’ve applied for an e-visa, here’s what yo...

 

The Cameroon e-visa system has made travel for Cameroonians in the diaspora much easier. If you’ve applied for an e-visa, here’s what you can expect when you arrive at the airport.

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My Personal Experience

After applying for the e-visa, I received a barcode via email within 48 hours, which also included an entry authorization into Cameroon. This email confirmed that my visa would be issued upon arrival at the airport.

When traveling, some airlines may not be familiar with this new system. However, I experienced no issues boarding my flight, and upon arriving at Douala Airport, the process was straightforward.

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Steps at the Airport

1. Initial Immigration Check:

   • Upon exiting the plane, you first meet an immigration officer to confirm your entry into the country.

2. COVID-19 Checks:

   • Standard health and safety protocols are followed.

3. E-Visa Desk:

   • Located near the yellow fever vaccination area, the e-visa desk handles all arrivals using the electronic system.

   • Processing is fast—it took less than 2–3 minutes for my visa to be endorsed on my passport.

4. What You Need:

   • Bring the barcode or confirmation email you received.

   • A printed copy is recommended, although showing it on your phone may also suffice.

5. Visa Issuance:

   • The visa is affixed to your passport at the airport.

   • It is similar in format to the traditional embassy-issued visa.

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Important Observations

• The visa validity corresponds to the duration of your visit.

  • For example, if your visit is 10 days, your visa expires on the day of your departure.

  • This differs from traditional embassy-issued visas, which may allow multiple entries over three months.

• Ensure you understand the type of visa you are paying for when applying online.

• Experiences may vary. Some travelers have had issues with the system, while others, like myself, had a smooth process.

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Tips for Travelers

• Always print your barcode or confirmation email before traveling.

• Check the expiry date of your visa carefully to avoid any issues.

• Be patient if the system experiences delays; authorities are still working to streamline the process.

• Share your experiences online to help improve the system for everyone.

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The Cameroon e-visa system is a significant step forward for nationals living abroad, simplifying the process of visiting the country. While experiences may vary, this system provides convenience, faster processing, and the opportunity to get a visa directly upon arrival.

By following these steps and preparing accordingly, travelers can enjoy a smooth entry into Cameroon and avoid unnecessary stress at the airport.