1. Do I need a visa to travel to Madagascar?

Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Madagascar. This includes visitors for tourism purposes, business travelers, and individuals planning to work or study in the country. The only exceptions are citizens of some African countries and certain international organizations such as the United Nations.
2. How can I obtain a visa for Madagascar?
Visas for Madagascar can be obtained through a consulate or embassy of Madagascar in your home country. You will need to submit a completed visa application form, along with supporting documents such as a valid passport, proof of accommodation in Madagascar, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
3. Can I get a visa on arrival in Madagascar?
No, visas cannot be obtained upon arrival in Madagascar. All visas must be obtained prior to travel at a consulate or embassy of Madagascar.
4. How long does it take to process a visa for Madagascar?
The processing time for a visa varies depending on the consulate or embassy where you apply. Generally, it takes 7-10 business days to process a tourist visa for Madagascar.
5. What is the validity of the tourist visa for Madagascar?
A tourist visa for Madagascar is usually valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue and allows multiple entries into the country during that period.
6. Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Madagascar?
Yes, it is recommended that all travelers receive vaccinations against diseases such as yellow fever, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A & B before visiting Madagascar. It is best to consult with your doctor or local travel clinic about which vaccinations are recommended for your specific trip.
7. Is there an airport tax when leaving Madagascar?
Yes, all international departures from Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo require payment of an airport tax of approximately 20 USD per person
8. Can I extend my stay in Madagascar after my visa expires?
It is possible to extend your stay in Madagascar by applying for an extension at the Madagascar Office of Immigration and Emigration in Antananarivo. However, this must be done at least two weeks before your visa expires and approval is not guaranteed.
9. Are there any restricted areas in Madagascar for tourists?
Yes, some parts of Madagascar, particularly national parks and protected areas, require special permits to access. These permits can usually be obtained with the help of a registered tour operator or through the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.
10. Is it safe to travel in Madagascar?
Overall, Madagascar is considered a safe country for tourists. However, like in any destination, it is important to use caution and common sense when traveling. Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas and avoid displaying wealth or valuables in public. It is also recommended to research any potential health or safety risks before your trip.

2. How do I apply for a Madagascar visa?

To apply for a visa to Madagascar, follow these steps:

1. Determine the type of visa you need: The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your trip to Madagascar. The most common types of visas are tourist, business, and transit visas.

2. Choose a Madagascar embassy or consulate: You can apply for a Madagascar visa at any of the diplomatic missions of Madagascar around the world. Find the one nearest to you and check their website for specific application procedures and requirements.

3. Collect required documents: You will need to gather the necessary documents for your visa application, including a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, flight itinerary, proof of accommodation in Madagascar, and other supporting documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

4. Fill out the application form: Once you have all the required documents, fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. You may be able to fill out the form online or print it out and complete it by hand.

5. Pay the application fee: The visa application fee varies depending on your nationality and type of visa. Check with the embassy or consulate for the current fee and payment methods.

6. Submit your application: Submit your completed application form along with all supporting documents and application fee to the designated Madagascar embassy or consulate either by mail or in person.

7. Wait for processing: It may take several days or weeks for your visa to be processed. During this time, you can track your application status through the embassy’s website.

8. Collect your visa: If your visa is approved, you will be notified by email or phone when it is ready for collection at the embassy/consulate where you submitted your application.

It is important to apply for a Madagascar visa well in advance of your planned travel dates as processing times can vary and there may be delays due to unforeseen circumstances.

3. What types of visas are available for traveling to Madagascar?

There are several types of visas available for traveling to Madagascar, including:

1. Tourist Visa: This type of visa is intended for individuals who are traveling to Madagascar for tourism purposes and plan to stay in the country for less than 30 days.

2. Business Visa: This visa is issued to individuals who are going to Madagascar for business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or conducting business negotiations.

3. Student Visa: Students planning to study in Madagascar must obtain a student visa before traveling. This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed upon request.

4. Work Visa: Individuals who have secured employment in Madagascar must obtain a work visa before entering the country.

5. Transit Visa: Travelers passing through Madagascar on their way to another destination may require a transit visa depending on their nationality.

6. Official/Diplomatic Visa: This type of visa is issued to government officials, diplomats, or other individuals representing their countries on official duties in Madagascar.

7. Volunteer Visa: Visitors planning to volunteer in Madagascar must obtain a volunteer visa before entering the country.

8. Residence Permit: Foreign nationals wishing to reside in Madagascar for an extended period must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of arrival.

9. Emergency/Visa on Arrival (VOA): In rare cases, visitors may be able to obtain an emergency or VOA if they have not been able to get a regular visa beforehand due to unforeseen circumstances.

4. What documents are required for a Madagascar visa application?

The specific documents required for a Madagascar visa application may vary depending on your nationality, purpose of travel, and type of visa, but generally the following are commonly required:

1. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining and at least two blank visa pages.
2. Completed Madagascar visa application form (can be found online or obtained from the nearest embassy/consulate).
3. Recent passport-sized photos.
4. Proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of your stay in Madagascar.
5. Flight itinerary or round-trip ticket.
6. Letter of invitation from a host in Madagascar (if applicable).
7. Hotel reservation confirmation or proof of accommodation.
8. For business visas: A letter from the company stating purpose of trip, duration, and financial responsibility.
9. For work visas: A work contract or letter from employer in Madagascar.
10. Vaccination certificate for yellow fever (if applicable).
11. Application fee.

Please note that additional documents may be required based on the type of visa you are applying for and your specific travel plans. It is best to check with the embassy/consulate or a reputable visa service provider for a complete list of requirements before submitting your application.

5. How long does it take to process a Madagascar visa?

The processing time for a Madagascar visa varies depending on the type of visa and the embassy or consulate where it is being processed. In general, it can take anywhere from one week to several weeks. It is recommended to apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance to ensure enough time for processing.

6. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Madagascar visa?

There is no specific age limit for obtaining a Madagascar visa. However, all applicants must be able to meet the requirements for the type of visa they are applying for, and minors under 18 years old may need additional documentation and permission from their parents or legal guardians.

7. Can I apply for a Madagascar visa online?

Yes, you can apply for a Madagascar visa online. The Embassy of Madagascar in your country should have information on how to apply for an e-Visa or an online visa application process. If the embassy does not offer this service, you may be able to use a third-party service provider to assist with the online application process. It is important to carefully follow the instructions provided and provide all required documents to ensure that your application is processed accurately and efficiently.

8. What is the cost of a Madagascar visa?

The cost of a Madagascar visa varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. Here are some estimated costs for common types of visas:

– Tourist eVisa (30 days): USD 37
– Business eVisa (90 days): USD 45
– Transit visa: USD 17
– Work visa: USD 58
– Volunteer visa: USD 23

Please note that these costs do not include additional fees such as processing and service fees. It is best to check with the nearest Madagascar embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa fees.

9. Are there any specific health or vaccination requirements for obtaining a Madagascar visa?

Yes, the Malagasy government requires travelers to have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate if they are arriving from or have transited through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes countries such as Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda. Malaria is prevalent in Madagascar, so it is recommended to take anti-malaria medication and apply insect repellent when traveling to the country. Travelers should also be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella, and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before traveling to ensure all necessary vaccinations are up-to-date for travel to Madagascar.

10. Can I extend my stay in Madagascar after my visa has expired?

It is not recommended to stay in Madagascar after your visa has expired. It is important to apply for a visa extension before your current one expires, otherwise you may face penalties and be required to pay a fine upon departure. If you wish to extend your stay, you must contact the Ministry of Interior and Decentralization in Antananarivo for more information.

11. Will I need to provide proof of accommodation and/or return flight tickets when applying for a Madagascar visa?

Yes, you will likely need to provide proof of accommodation and return flight tickets when applying for a Madagascar visa. These documents are typically required to show that you have a place to stay during your visit and that you have plans to leave the country after your stay. They may also ask for other documents such as an invitation letter from a sponsor in Madagascar, bank statements, and travel insurance. It is best to check with the embassy or consulate where you are applying for the visa for their specific requirements.

12. Can I enter and exit multiple times on a single entry visa to Madagascar?

No, a single entry visa only allows you to enter Madagascar once. If you need to enter and exit multiple times, you will need to apply for a multiple entry visa.

13. Do I need to show proof of sufficient funds when applying for a Madagascar visa?

Yes, you will need to show proof of sufficient funds when applying for a Madagascar visa. This is to demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay in the country and can support yourself without needing to work illegally. The exact amount of funds required may vary depending on your intended length of stay and purpose of visit, but as a general guide, it is recommended to have at least $1,000 per month for tourist purposes. You may be required to show bank statements or other financial documents as proof of your funds.

14. Is it possible to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival in Madagascar?

No, it is not possible to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival in Madagascar. All visitors to Madagascar must obtain a visa prior to arrival at a Malagasy embassy or consulate in their home country.

15. Are there any restrictions on what type of activities can be done on a tourist visa in Madagascar?

Yes, tourists are strictly prohibited from engaging in any form of paid work or employment while on a tourist visa in Madagascar. They are also not allowed to engage in any activities that may be considered harmful to the environment or cultural heritage of the country. It is recommended to check with the nearest embassy or consulate for specific restrictions before engaging in any activities while on a tourist visa.

16. Can I work or study on a tourist or visitor’s visa in Madagascar?

No, a tourist or visitor’s visa does not allow you to work or study in Madagascar. If you wish to do so, you will need to obtain a different type of visa that specifically allows for such activities.

17. Are there any countries whose citizens can enter without a visa or with a Visa on Arrival in Madagascar?

Yes, citizens of some countries can enter Madagascar without a visa or with a Visa on Arrival. These countries include all African Union member states, Dominican Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, Mauritius, Philippines, Seychelles, Singapore, South Korea and Turkey.

Please note that the list of countries may change from time to time and it is recommended to check with the nearest Madagascar embassy or consulate for the most updated information before traveling.

18. What should I do if my passport expires while I am in Madagascar on a valid visa?

You should apply for a new passport at your nearest embassy or consulate as soon as possible. Once you have your new passport, you should update your visa with the new passport information. You may need to provide additional documents, such as a copy of your old passport and visa stamp, to complete this process. It is important to do this before your visa expires to avoid any complications with immigration authorities.

19. Is it safe to travel to Madagascar under the current political situation?

No, it is not currently safe to travel to Madagascar due to ongoing political instability and civil unrest. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory, the highest possible level, advising against all travel to Madagascar due to crime and civil unrest. It is best to avoid non-essential travel to the country until the situation stabilizes. If you must visit, it is important to monitor local news and avoid large gatherings or protests. Always follow the advice of local authorities and stay informed of any safety warnings or advisories.

20 . Are there any additional requirements or documents needed if traveling with children under the age of 18?

Yes, there are additional requirements and documents needed if traveling with children under the age of 18. These may include:

1. Valid passport: All children, including infants, must have a valid passport when traveling internationally.

2. Birth certificate: Some countries may also require a birth certificate as proof of the child’s identity and relation to their parents.

3. Consent letter: If the child is traveling without both parents, a consent letter from the absent parent(s) may be required. This letter should include their contact information, the name of the accompanying adult(s), and a statement of consent for the child to travel.

4. Visas: Children may need their own visas to enter certain countries, depending on their nationality and the destination country’s visa requirements.

5. Medical records: It is recommended to bring copies of any necessary medical records or prescriptions for any medication being brought into the country.

6. Letter from school: For longer trips during school holidays, it may be helpful to bring a letter from the child’s school stating that they are aware of and have given permission for the trip.

It is advisable to check with your airline or embassy of your destination country for specific requirements before traveling with children under 18 years old.