DRC eVisa for Gambia

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a land of immense beauty, home to the second-largest rainforest in the world and a culture as vibrant as its landscapes. For travelers from The Gambia, visiting the heart of Africa has become significantly easier thanks to the digital visa system. Whether you are heading to Kinshasa for business or exploring the wilderness, understanding the entry requirements is your first step.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the DRC eVisa for Gambia citizens, ensuring you have everything needed for a successful application.

Do Gambian Citizens Need a Visa for the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Yes, citizens of The Gambia are required to obtain a visa before entering the DRC. While Gambia has many visa-free agreements, the DRC remains a destination where pre-authorization is mandatory. The Ordinary Flying eVisa is the most convenient option, as it allows you to apply online and receive your permit via email, saving you a trip to a physical embassy.

How Long Can You Stay and What is the Validity?

The eVisa is specifically tailored for short-term stays, granting a maximum of 7 days in the country. However, the document itself has a validity of 90 days from the date it is issued. This means you have a three-month window to fly into the DRC, but once you clear immigration, your 7-day countdown begins.

Writing Your Formal Application Letter to the DGM

One unique requirement for the DRC eVisa is a Formal Application Letter addressed to the Direction Générale de Migration (DGM). This personal letter should clearly state:

• Your full name and passport details.
• The purpose of your visit (tourism, business, or family).
• Your intended dates of travel and where you will be staying.
• A brief statement of your commitment to follow local laws.
• Note: If you don't have one, our team at congo-evisa.com can assist in ensuring your letter meets the official standards.

How Fast is the DRC eVisa Processing Time?

We provide three processing tiers to suit your schedule:

• Standard Processing: 11 - 13 Working Days.
• Urgent Processing: 8 - 11 Working Days.
• Super Urgent Processing: 5 - 8 Working Days (ideal for last-minute or emergency trips).

What are the Payment Methods and Airport Fees?

The online service and processing fees can be paid securely via Credit or Debit Cards (Visa/MasterCard) on the portal. However, there is a second step: every traveler must pay a mandatory $90 USD entry fee (VAP) in cash at the airport upon arrival. It is vital to carry crisp, clean USD bills printed after 2013, as older notes are often refused.

Can I enter the DRC by Land with an eVisa?

It is important to note that the Ordinary Flying eVisa is specifically for those arriving by air. If you plan to enter the DRC via a land border from a neighboring country, the eVisa might not be accepted, and you would likely need a traditional sticker visa from a Congolese embassy. Always confirm your entry point before applying.

What are the Photo Requirements for the Application?

Your digital photo must meet specific standards to be accepted by the DGM portal:

• Size: Standard 35x45mm dimensions.
• Background: Plain white or off-white background with no shadows.
• Appearance: Neutral expression, eyes open, and no headgear (unless for religious reasons).
• Quality: High resolution—scanned copies of physical photos are usually rejected.

Rules for Minors and Transit Visas

If a minor (under 18) from The Gambia is traveling, they need their own visa and a notarized parental consent letter if traveling with only one parent. For those just passing through, a Transit Visa is available for airport layovers. However, if the layover involves leaving the airport for a hotel stay, a standard entry visa is required.

Why Choose congo-evisa.com for Your Application?

Applying for a DRC visa can be complex, and a single mistake can lead to rejection. Using our service ensures that:

• We Fix Your Mistakes: Our experts review your documents and application letter to catch and fix errors before submission.
• 24/7 Dedicated Support: Connect with our team via Live Chat, WhatsApp, or Phone for immediate assistance at any time.
• Secure & Transparent: We provide clear pricing and advanced encryption to protect your data.

Staying Connected: Internet and Buying a SIM Card

Internet availability is reliable in major cities like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi but can be spotty in rural areas. To stay connected, you can buy a local SIM card at the airport or in town. Major providers include Vodacom, Orange, and Airtel. You will need to present your passport to register the SIM card.

The ultimate resource for DRC eVisa information is available on our blog.

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