Burkina Faso eVisa for Bhutan

Traveling from the serene valleys of Bhutan to the vibrant landscapes of Burkina Faso is a journey full of contrast and discovery. Whether you are heading to Ouagadougou for business or to explore the natural beauty of the Cascades de Karfiguéla, proper preparation is key.

For Bhutanese citizens, securing a visa is the most critical step. Fortunately, the introduction of the electronic visa (eVisa) system has made this process smoother than ever. This guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a Burkina Faso eVisa from Bhutan, ensuring your travel plans are hassle-free.

What documents are needed for a Burkina Faso eVisa application for Bhutanese citizens?

To successfully apply for your eVisa, you must prepare digital copies of the following documents required for Burkina Faso e-visa. Ensuring these are clear and legible will help avoid delays.

1. Valid Passport Bio Page: A color scan of your Bhutanese passport's information page.
2. Passport-Style Photograph: A recent photo that meets specific visa standards.
3. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: This is a mandatory health document for entry into Burkina Faso.
4. Proof of Accommodation: A hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from a host.
5. Return Flight Ticket: Proof of your intention to leave the country after your stay.
6. Proof of Profession: A simple document stating your occupation (e.g., an employee ID, business card, or student ID).

What types of eVisas are available for Burkina Faso?

The Burkina Faso eVisa system offers several categories depending on your purpose of travel. Bhutanese citizens can choose from:

• Holiday & Tourism: For leisure trips, sightseeing, and cultural visits (Valid for 90 days).
• Business Visa: For attending conferences, meetings, or exploring trade opportunities (90 days).
• Family Visit: Specifically for travelers visiting relatives or friends residing in Burkina Faso.
• Transit Visa: For those passing through Burkina Faso to another destination (Valid for up to 5 days).
• Conference and Meetings: For official event attendees.
• Investment / Mines and Quarry: Specialized visas for professionals in these sectors.

What does a valid passport for a Burkina Faso eVisa need to include?

Your Bhutanese passport acts as your primary identification document. To be accepted for the eVisa, it must meet the following strict criteria:

• Validity: It must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry.
• Blank Pages: It must have at least two blank pages available for immigration stamps upon arrival and departure.
• Condition: The physical passport must be in good condition, with no torn pages or water damage.

What are the requirements for a photo on the Burkina Faso eVisa application?

Your application photo is one of the most common reasons for rejection if not done correctly. Follow these specifications:

• Format: The photo must be in a digital format (JPG/PNG).
• Background: It must be taken against a plain white background.
• Expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression with your eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
• Attire: Do not wear uniforms, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious purposes). Glasses should be removed to prevent glare.

How can I pay the visa fee for Burkina Faso online?

The online application platform is designed for global accessibility. You can securely pay your visa processing and government fees using:

• Credit Cards: Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted.
• Debit Cards: Most international debit cards work seamlessly.
• Security: The payment gateway uses bank-level encryption to ensure your financial data is protected during the transaction.

How long does it take to get a Burkina Faso eVisa?

Processing times vary based on the urgency of your trip. For Bhutanese applicants, there are typically three tiers:

• Normal Processing: 6-9 Working Days. (Recommended for early planners).
• Rush Processing: 4-7 Working Days. (For travelers with a tighter schedule).
• Super Rush Processing: 3-5 Working Days. (For urgent or last-minute trips).

Can a Bhutanese citizen apply for a business visa for Burkina Faso?

Yes. Bhutanese entrepreneurs and professionals can easily apply for a Business eVisa. Unlike a standard tourist visa, you may need to provide an additional Letter of Invitation from the company or organization you are visiting in Burkina Faso. This visa allows for professional activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.

Can you get a visa on arrival in Burkina Faso as a Bhutanese citizen?

While a Visa on Arrival is technically possible at major entry points like Ouagadougou Airport, it is highly discouraged for Bhutanese travelers.

• High Cost: Fees on arrival can exceed $190 USD, which is significantly more expensive than the eVisa.
• Uncertainty: Documentation checks at the border can be strict. If you are missing a single document, you risk being denied entry after a long flight.
• Delays: Long queues at the airport can add hours to your travel time. Recommendation: Always secure your eVisa before you depart Bhutan.

What are the conditions for an exit fee when leaving Burkina Faso?

Generally, there is no separate exit fee for tourists leaving Burkina Faso if they hold a valid visa and have not overstayed. However, if you stay beyond the validity date of your visa ("overstay"), you will be subject to heavy fines and potential legal issues at the airport before you are allowed to leave. Always ensure your travel dates fall strictly within your visa's validity period.

What are common issues or reasons for Burkina Faso visa rejection?

To ensure your application is approved, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Blurred Documents: Uploading low-quality scans of passports or photos.
2. Passport Expiry: Applying with a passport that expires in less than 6 months.
3. Typos: Mismatching your name or passport number on the application form (e.g., entering "O" instead of "0").
4. Missing Yellow Fever Card: Failing to upload the mandatory vaccination certificate.
5. Wrong Visa Type: applying for a tourist visa when your actual purpose is business.

Can you get a visa through a travel agent?

Yes, applying through a specialized agent is often the best way to ensure success. A trusted service like burkina-faso-evisa.com offers distinct advantages for Bhutanese citizens:

• Expert Review: Agents review your documents for errors before submission, drastically reducing rejection risks.
• 24/7 Support: You get assistance in English to answer any questions.
• Simplified Forms: The application process is streamlined to be more user-friendly than the government portal.