Burkina Faso Waives Visa Fees for All African Citizens
Burkina Faso has eliminated visa fees for citizens of all African nations, a decision aimed at bolstering regional integration and fostering a Pan-African spirit, reports 24brussels.
The reform was approved by the Council of Ministers on September 11, 2025, and took effect on September 12. While the removal of visa fees marks a significant development in Burkina Faso’s Pan-African agenda under interim president Ibrahim Traoré, the requirement to apply for visas via the electronic portal remains intact.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana noted that the decision reflects Burkina Faso’s commitment to Pan-African ideals and the longstanding connections among African nations. He emphasized that “free does not mean exempt,” highlighting that visitors still need to obtain electronic approval before traveling.
Prior to this announcement, tourist visas for Burkina Faso cost approximately $100, while business visas were priced at $165. Officials expect that abolishing these fees will enhance tourism, cultural exchange, and regional commerce. A government statement indicated that the initiative aims to improve Burkina Faso’s international profile and promote its cultural heritage.
This waiver was introduced through the 2025 supplementary finance law and aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to facilitate the movement of people and goods across the continent. Authorities anticipate that this change will benefit students, traders, and families, reducing the overall costs of travel and encouraging cross-border interactions.
Burkina Faso joins other African nations like Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya, which have recently reformed entry requirements for African citizens. Ghana now provides visa-free access to all African passport holders, while Kenya implemented a visa-free policy in 2023, requiring only online authorization. Rwanda has long exempted African travelers from visa requirements.
This announcement coincides with Burkina Faso’s recent withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), along with Mali and Niger. Although many West Africans have been entering Burkina Faso without visas, officials indicated that future entry arrangements may be subject to change as new frameworks emerge to succeed ECOWAS protocols.
Although the implementation of the visa waiver is still ongoing, as of September 12, the e-visa portal displayed payment requirements, with no official announcement regarding the full technical activation date. The government urged applicants to stay informed through official channels and has stated that retroactive refunds will not be available.
Despite rising insecurity in certain regions, where armed groups exert control, officials have reiterated that visa screenings will remain rigorous. “Every applicant will continue to be assessed, and border checks remain in place,” Minister Sana stated.
By abolishing visa fees, Ouagadougou aims to assert its sovereignty, deepen African integration, and position Burkina Faso as a significant hub for both cultural and economic exchange across the continent.
