Djibouti eVisa Fee Structure
Understanding the fee structure for Djibouti eVisa applications helps you budget accurately and avoid unexpected costs. The fees vary depending on the type of visa you need and the processing speed you select.
The Djibouti government sets the base visa fees, which are collected during the online application process. These fees are separate from any additional service charges that may apply if you use third-party visa processing services.
All fees are quoted in US dollars (USD) and must be paid by credit or debit card during the application process. The fees are generally non-refundable once the application is submitted, regardless of the outcome.
Tourist eVisa Fees
The tourist eVisa is the most common visa type for leisure travelers visiting Djibouti. The fee structure is straightforward:
Standard Tourist eVisa:
- Fee: approximately $120 USD
- Validity: 30 days from date of entry
- Entry type: single entry
- Processing time: 3-7 business days
Extended Tourist eVisa:
- Fee: higher than standard (varies)
- Validity: up to 90 days
- Entry type: may include multiple entry option
- Processing time: 3-7 business days
The standard tourist eVisa is sufficient for most vacation trips, short visits to friends and family, and general sightseeing. If you plan a longer stay or need to leave and re-enter Djibouti during your trip, consider applying for the extended or multiple entry option.
What is Included:
The tourist eVisa fee covers the processing of your application and the issuance of the electronic visa document. It does not include any additional services such as expedited processing, visa on arrival arrangements, or travel insurance.
Business eVisa Fees
Business travelers pay a higher fee reflecting the different visa category and often extended validity:
Standard Business eVisa:
- Fee: approximately $200 USD
- Validity: varies based on business purpose
- Entry type: single or multiple entry options available
- Processing time: 3-7 business days
Multiple Entry Business eVisa:
- Fee: higher than single entry
- Validity: 6 months to 1 year
- Entry type: multiple entries permitted
- Ideal for frequent business travelers to Djibouti
Business visas are required for travelers engaging in commercial activities, attending conferences, conducting meetings, or participating in trade events. Using a tourist visa for business purposes may result in complications with immigration authorities.
Supporting Documentation:
Business visa applications typically require additional supporting documents such as a letter of invitation from a Djibouti-based company, conference registration, or business correspondence. These documents should be prepared before starting the application.
Transit eVisa Fees
For travelers passing through Djibouti en route to another destination, a transit eVisa provides a cost-effective option:
Transit eVisa:
- Fee: lower than tourist visa (approximately $60-80 USD)
- Validity: up to 72 hours
- Entry type: single entry
- Purpose: for travelers in transit to another country
When to Use a Transit Visa:
- Connecting flights with a long layover in Djibouti
- Overland travel through Djibouti to another destination
- Short stopover to change transportation modes
Important Considerations:
The transit visa is strictly for travelers who are passing through Djibouti. You must have proof of onward travel to your final destination. Overstaying the 72-hour transit period without a proper visa can result in fines and future entry restrictions.
If your layover is less than 24 hours and you remain in the airport transit area, you may not need a transit visa. Check with your airline and Djibouti immigration for the latest transit regulations.
Payment Methods Accepted
The Djibouti eVisa portal accepts several payment methods for visa fee collection:
Credit Cards:
- Visa (most widely accepted)
- Mastercard
- American Express (may not always be accepted)
Debit Cards:
- Visa debit cards
- Mastercard debit cards
- Cards must be enabled for international online transactions
Payment Process:
Payment is made through a secure payment gateway integrated into the eVisa portal. After entering your card details, you may be redirected to your bank’s 3D Secure verification page for additional authentication. This extra security step helps protect against fraudulent transactions.
Currency and Conversion:
Fees are displayed and charged in US dollars (USD). If your card is denominated in another currency, your bank will convert the amount at their prevailing exchange rate. Check with your bank about any foreign transaction fees that may apply.
Tips for Successful Payment:
- Ensure your card is authorized for international online payments
- Check your daily transaction limit before attempting payment
- Contact your bank in advance if you plan a large transaction
- Keep your payment confirmation for your records
- If payment fails, wait a few minutes before retrying to avoid duplicate charges
Additional Charges and Service Fees
Beyond the base visa fee, several additional charges may apply:
Currency Conversion Fees:
If your bank account is not in US dollars, your bank may charge a currency conversion fee, typically 1-3% of the transaction amount. Check with your bank before making payment.
Foreign Transaction Fees:
Some credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee for purchases made in foreign currencies or through foreign payment processors. This fee is typically 1-3% and is charged by your card issuer, not the Djibouti government.
Third-Party Service Fees:
If you use a visa processing service or travel agency to handle your application, they will charge an additional service fee on top of the government visa fee. These fees vary by provider and can range from $25 to $100 or more. Applying directly through the official portal avoids these extra charges.
Expedited Processing Fees:
Some visa services offer expedited processing for an additional fee. While the official portal does not always advertise rush processing, third-party services may offer faster turnaround times at a premium.
Bank Transfer Fees:
If using bank transfer as a payment method (where available), both your bank and the receiving bank may charge transfer fees. Credit or debit card payment is generally more cost-effective.
Refund Policy
Understanding the refund policy helps you make informed decisions about your visa application:
General Policy:
The Djibouti eVisa fee is generally non-refundable once the application has been submitted. This applies regardless of whether your application is approved, rejected, or if you decide not to travel.
When Refunds May Apply:
- Technical errors during payment that result in duplicate charges
- System errors that prevent application submission after payment
- Cases where the government cancels the visa program or changes requirements
When Refunds Do Not Apply:
- Application rejection due to incomplete or inaccurate information
- Rejection due to failure to meet visa requirements
- Change of travel plans after submission
- Duplicate applications submitted by the applicant
Disputing Charges:
If you believe you were charged incorrectly or experience a technical error resulting in an unfair charge, contact the eVisa support team through the portal. Provide your application reference number and payment details. For unauthorized charges, contact your bank immediately.
Recommendation:
Before submitting your application and making payment, carefully review all information and ensure you meet all requirements. This minimizes the risk of rejection and loss of the visa fee.
How much does a Djibouti tourist eVisa cost?
The standard tourist eVisa costs approximately $120 USD. This fee covers the processing and issuance of a single-entry visa valid for 30 days. Payment is made by credit or debit card during the online application process. The fee is non-refundable once submitted.
How much does a Djibouti business eVisa cost?
The business eVisa costs approximately $200 USD for a single-entry visa. Multiple entry options are available at a higher fee. Business visas may have longer validity periods and require additional supporting documents such as an invitation letter from a Djibouti company.
Are there additional fees beyond the visa cost?
Additional charges may include currency conversion fees (1-3%), foreign transaction fees from your bank, and service fees if using a third-party visa provider. Applying directly through the official portal and using a card in the same currency as the fee minimizes extra charges.
What payment methods can I use for the Djibouti eVisa?
The portal accepts major international credit and debit cards, primarily Visa and Mastercard. Ensure your card is enabled for international online transactions. Some cards may require you to authorize the transaction with your bank beforehand.
Is the Djibouti eVisa fee refundable if my application is rejected?
No, the visa fee is generally non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. This is why it is important to ensure all information is accurate and all requirements are met before submitting your application and making payment.
Why was I charged more than the listed visa fee?
The difference is likely due to currency conversion fees or foreign transaction fees charged by your bank or card issuer. These fees are not controlled by the Djibouti government. Check with your bank about their specific fee structure for international transactions.
Can I pay for the Djibouti eVisa in my local currency?
The visa fee is set in US dollars (USD). If your card is in a different currency, your bank will convert the amount at their exchange rate. You cannot choose to pay in another currency through the portal. Some banks may offer favorable exchange rates for international transactions.
Is there a cheaper visa option for short stays in Djibouti?
The transit eVisa is a more affordable option for travelers passing through Djibouti, typically costing around $60-80 USD. It is valid for up to 72 hours and is intended for those with onward travel to another destination. It cannot be used for tourism or business visits.
Do children need to pay the same visa fee?
Yes, all travelers including children and infants require their own eVisa and the associated fee applies. There is no reduced fee for children. Each applicant, regardless of age, must have a separate application and visa.
