Madagascar eVisa for Norway Citizens

For many Norwegians, Madagascar represents the ultimate escape. Far removed from the fjords and the winter darkness, the "Red Island" offers lemurs, baobabs, and tropical beaches that seem almost otherworldly. Whether you are planning a photography tour in the Avenue of the Baobabs or a beach holiday in Nosy Be, the adventure begins with one crucial step: getting your visa.

If you hold a Norwegian passport (Norsk pass), you likely have questions about entry requirements. Do you need a visa? Can you apply online? How much is the fee in NOK or Euro? This guide covers everything you need to know about the Madagascar eVisa for Norway citizens, ensuring your journey from Oslo to Antananarivo is smooth and stress-free.

Do Norwegian Citizens Need a Visa for Madagascar?

Yes. Despite the strong power of the Norwegian passport, citizens of Norway are required to have a valid visa to enter Madagascar for tourism, business, or short-term stays. There is no visa-free entry for Nordic citizens.

However, the process is straightforward. Madagascar offers a streamlined "Visa on Arrival" and "eVisa" system for tourists, meaning you do not need to send your passport away to an embassy for weeks.

What are the eligibility criteria for a Madagascar tourist eVisa?

To be eligible for the online visa system, Norwegian travelers must meet a few simple criteria:

• Purpose: The visit must be strictly for tourism (holidays, sightseeing, visiting friends). It does not cover employment or long-term research.
• Passport: You must hold a valid Norwegian passport (not an emergency or diplomatic passport for this specific portal).
• Location: You must apply from outside Madagascar. You cannot apply for the initial eVisa if you are already in the country.
• Entry Point: You must intend to enter via designated international airports (like Ivato, Nosy Be, etc.).

What's the validity of a Madagascar tourist eVisa and how many days is the stay?

The validity of your visa is strictly tied to the travel dates you provide during the application. Unlike some visas that are valid for a year, this is a trip-specific authorization.

• 15-Day Visa: Allows a stay of up to 15 days. Ideal for short trips.
• 30-Day Visa: Allows a stay of up to 30 days.
• 60-Day Visa: Allows a stay of up to 60 days.

Important: These are Single Entry visas. If you leave Madagascar (e.g., to visit Reunion or Mauritius) and wish to return, you will need a new visa. The validity period begins on the arrival date you specify in your application.

What documents are needed for a Madagascar eVisa application for Norwegian citizens?

For Norwegian citizens applying for the Madagascar Electronic Visa (eVisa), or opting for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), the valid passport is the primary document required for the online application.

The passport must meet the following three critical criteria:

• Passport Type: Valid Norwegian Passport. The digital copy you submit for the eVisa must be a clear scan of the bio-data page (the one with your photo and personal information). It must be in good condition, without significant damage, tears, or water damage.
• Validity: Minimum 6 Months. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your intended date of arrival in Madagascar.
• Blank Pages: Minimum 2 Blank Pages. You must have at least two (2) entirely blank, facing pages in your passport. These are required for the physical entry and exit stamps (and potentially the visa sticker, if you get a Visa on Arrival).

How does the Madagascar eVisa payment process work?

The payment is handled securely online at the end of your application.

• Methods: You can pay using major Credit or Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro).
• Currency: The fees are typically charged in Euros (€) or US Dollars ($). Your Norwegian bank will automatically convert this from NOK based on the daily exchange rate.
• Security: Ensure your card is enabled for international online transactions (BankID might be required for verification).

How long is the visa processing time for a Madagascar e-visa?

The processing time depends on the urgency you select. Based on current standards:

• Normal Processing: 4 - 6 Working Days. Recommended if you are booking at least a week or two in advance.
• Rush Processing: 2 - 4 Working Days. Good for tight schedules.
• Super Rush Processing: 1 - 3 Working Days. Designed for last-minute travelers.

How to apply for an online visa for Madagascar?

The application process is fully digital and can be completed from your home in Norway:

1. Fill in the Form: Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your Norwegian passport.
2. Upload Documents: Attach the scans of your passport bio page.
3. Select Processing Time: Choose how quickly you need the approval (Normal, Rush, or Super Rush).
4. Submit: Review your information and submit the application.

What do visa agents do and do they help?

Yes, many Norwegian travelers opt to use visa agents for peace of mind. Here is how they assist:

• Document Review: Agents review your passport scans and photos before submission to ensure they meet strict government resolution and size requirements, reducing the risk of rejection.
• Form Assistance: They handle the data entry, ensuring no typos or errors in the government forms which can be confusing.
• 24/7 Support: If you have issues with the payment portal or need to check your status outside of business hours, agents provide customer support.
• Status Tracking: They monitor the application and email the approved visa directly to you.

Can Norwegian Citizens Get a Visa on Arrival?

Yes. If you prefer flexibility or book a spontaneous trip, you can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at major international airports like Antananarivo (TNR) and Nosy Be (NOS).

• Procedure: You will queue at a specific "Visa" counter before immigration.
• Payment: You must pay the fee in Cash.
• Currency: Euros (€) and US Dollars ($) are the most widely accepted currencies for VOA. Norwegian Kroner (NOK) is not accepted for visa payments at the border.

Flight Routes from Oslo to Antananarivo

Reaching Madagascar from Norway typically involves one or two stops. Popular routes include:

• Air France: Oslo (OSL) -> Paris (CDG) -> Antananarivo (TNR). This is often the most direct route.
• Ethiopian Airlines: Oslo (OSL) -> Addis Ababa (ADD) -> Antananarivo (TNR) or Nosy Be (NOS). A great option for reaching the beaches of Nosy Be directly.
• Kenya Airways: Flights via London/Amsterdam and Nairobi.

Best Time to Visit Madagascar for Norwegian Travelers

• April to October (Dry Season): This is the winter in the Southern Hemisphere, offering cooler, drier weather. It is perfect for hiking and seeing lemurs.
• July to September: Peak season for Humpback Whales watching off the coast of Île Sainte-Marie.
• Avoid January to March: This is the cyclone season. Heavy rains can make roads impassable, and many lodges close.

Currency: Should I bring NOK, EUR, or USD?

• Local Currency: Malagasy Ariary (MGA).
• NOK: Norwegian Kroner are not widely accepted for exchange in Madagascar.
• Best Strategy: Bring Euros (EUR). They are easy to exchange everywhere and can be used for the Visa on Arrival. US Dollars (USD) printed after 2013 are also accepted.
• Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted in major hotels in Tana and Nosy Be, but cash is king in rural areas.

Conclusion

Getting a Madagascar eVisa for Norway citizens is the first step toward an unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose to apply online for convenience or get your visa on arrival, the process is accessible.

Remember to pack your Euros, print your return ticket, and bring your sense of adventure. Madagascar is ready to welcome you!

God tur!