Visa Requirement Summary

If you are planning to visit Mauritania for tourism purposes, you will need to apply for a tourist visa. The tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for a specific period of time for leisure and sightseeing. To apply for a tourist visa for Mauritania, you will need to submit a completed application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. The visa processing time may vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date. Once approved, the tourist visa will allow you to explore the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Mauritania.
Stay up to 90 days
Quick Facts
Get your tourist visa for Mauritania in just a few days! No need for an invitation letter. Valid for 30 days. Apply online or at the embassy.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Obtain a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.

2. Fill out the tourist visa application form for Mauritania, which can be found on the official embassy website.

3. Gather required documents, including a passport-sized photo, proof of accommodation in Mauritania, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay, and a copy of your return flight ticket.

4. Submit your completed application form and supporting documents to the nearest Mauritanian embassy or consulate.

5. Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on your nationality and length of stay.

6. Wait for processing of your visa application, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

7. Once your visa is approved, collect your passport with the visa stamp from the embassy or consulate.

8. Make sure to check the visa validity dates and any specific entry requirements before traveling to Mauritania.

9. Upon arrival in Mauritania, present your passport with the visa stamp to immigration officials for

Online Application Links

1. Online tourist visa application portal for Mauritania: https://mauritania.visahq.com/

2. Official website for the Embassy of Mauritania: https://www.mauritaniaembassy.us/visa/

Documents Required

List of Documents

- Valid passport

- Completed visa application form

- Passport-sized photos

- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation)

- Travel itinerary (flight reservation)

- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay

- Letter of invitation (if applicable)

- Travel insurance

- Copy of previous visas (if applicable)

- Yellow fever vaccination certificate

- Proof of return ticket

- Visa fee payment receipt

Ensure all documents are in the required format and meet the specific requirements for a visa application to Mauritania. Contact the Mauritanian embassy or consulate for any additional information or clarification.

Fees

Visa Fees
The cost of a visa application for Mauritania is $50 USD for a single entry visa and $100 USD for a multiple entry visa. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or other services. It is important to check the most up-to-date information on visa fees before applying.
Additional Costs
In addition to the standard application fee, there may be other associated costs when applying for a visa to Mauritania. These could include service fees charged by the visa processing center, as well as express processing fees if you need your visa to be expedited. It is important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for your trip to Mauritania.

Processing Time

Standard Processing Time
The standard processing time for a visa approval in Mauritania is typically around 7-10 business days. This timeframe may vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the volume of applications being processed. It is important to submit all required documents accurately and on time to avoid any delays in the approval process. Applicants are advised to check the specific processing times for their visa category on the official embassy website.
Express Processing Options
If you need your application processed quickly in Mauritania, there are options available for expedited processing. These options may include paying an additional fee for priority processing or submitting your application through a fast-track service. Be sure to check with the relevant authorities or your service provider for more information on expedited processing options and any associated costs. This can help you receive a decision on your application in a shorter timeframe.

Validity

Visa Duration
Visa duration for Mauritania varies depending on the type of visa, but typically ranges from 1 month to 1 year. It is important to check the specific visa requirements and validity period before traveling to Mauritania.
Entry Type
Single-entry for Mauritania.

Extensions

Extension Process

To extend your visa in Mauritania, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) office in Nouakchott at least one month before your current visa expires.

2. Fill out the visa extension application form and provide any necessary supporting documents, such as a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and a letter explaining the reason for your extension.

3. Pay the visa extension fee, which varies depending on the length of the extension requested.

4. Wait for the DGSN to process your application, which can take up to two weeks.

5. Once approved, you will receive a new visa sticker in your passport with the extended validity period.

It's important to note that visa extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to approval by the DGSN. It is recommended to start the extension process well in advance to avoid any issues with overstaying your visa.

Extension Fees
Extension fees for a visa in Mauritania vary depending on the length of the extension requested. The cost can range from $50 to $200. It is important to note that extension fees are subject to change and should be confirmed with the appropriate authorities. Additionally, there may be additional administrative fees and requirements for extending a visa, such as providing proof of sufficient funds or a valid reason for the extension. It is recommended to consult with the relevant immigration office for accurate and up-to-date information on extension fees in Mauritania.
Validity of Extensions
In Mauritania, the validity of visa extensions can vary depending on the type of visa. Generally, tourist visas can be extended for up to 90 days, while business visas can be extended for up to 180 days. It is important to check with the Mauritanian immigration authorities for specific information on the duration for which a visa can be extended.

Additional Information

Special Requirements

Travelers to Mauritania are required to have a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry. Visas are also required for most nationalities, which can be obtained prior to arrival from the Mauritanian embassy or consulate in your home country.

There are no specific medical exams or vaccination certificates required for entry into Mauritania. However, it is recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza.

It is also advisable to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria by taking antimalarial medication and using insect repellent. Travelers should also be cautious of the extreme heat and sun exposure in Mauritania and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Overall, travelers should take normal travel precautions and consult with a healthcare provider or travel medicine specialist before their trip to Mauritania

Travel Advisories
Mauritania currently has a Level 2 travel advisory issued by the US Department of State, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism and kidnapping threats. The UK government also advises against all travel to areas within 150km of the border with Mali, as well as to the eastern side of the country. It is important to stay informed of local news and follow the advice of local authorities while traveling in Mauritania.
Local Laws and Customs

Travelers to Mauritania should be aware of the following local laws and customs:

1. Dress modestly: Mauritania is a conservative Islamic country, and visitors should dress modestly to respect local customs. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts.

2. Respect Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. It is important to respect this tradition by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

3. Alcohol and public displays of affection: Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Mauritania, and public displays of affection are frowned upon. It is important to be respectful of local customs and avoid these behaviors.

4. Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Some locals may not be comfortable with having their picture taken.

5. Drug laws: The possession and use of drugs are illegal in Mauritania and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.

By being aware of and respecting these local laws

Quick Facts About the Country

Mauritania is a country located in northwest Africa, known for its vast desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The country is home to the ancient city of Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Mauritania is also known for its diverse wildlife, including rare species such as the African wild dog and the Sahara oryx.

The country's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and mining, with iron ore being a major export. Mauritania is a predominantly Muslim country, with Arabic as the official language.

Mauritania is also known for its traditional music and dance, with the Mauritanian harp known as the tidinit being a popular instrument. The country's cuisine is influenced by Arab, Berber, and African traditions, with dishes like couscous, tagine, and mint tea being popular.