Benin Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: FCDO advises against travel to some parts of Benin. Your passport must be valid for the whole of your stay in Benin. You must have a visa, which you apply for online at least 7 days before you arrive.
✓ Checked against GOV.UK today at 1:00am · What's changed
Benin travel requirements at a glance
Valid for your whole stay
Required, apply online
At least 7 days before arrival
On arrival at Cotonou airport
Official source: GOV.UK Benin entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- Valid for your whole stay
- Visa needed to enter or transit
- Apply online 7 days ahead
- Get onward visas before you go
Passport validity for Benin
GOV.UK says your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Benin. There is no extra 6-month rule.
You will be denied entry if your passport has been reported lost or stolen.
Visas
You must have a visa to enter or travel through Benin.
Apply online at least 7 days before you arrive. You get the visa when you arrive at Cotonou airport.
Onward travel
You cannot get visas for Nigeria, Ghana or Togo in Benin. Apply for any onward visas before you travel.
For more information, contact the Beninese Embassy in France.
Check your passport for Benin
Enter your passport and travel dates. We check them against the GOV.UK rule for Benin.
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For British passports. Other trips? Check several passports or another destination.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for Benin?
No. GOV.UK says your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Benin.
Do I need a visa for Benin?
Yes. You must have a visa to enter or travel through Benin. Apply online at least 7 days before you arrive.
Can I get visas for neighbouring countries in Benin?
No. You cannot get visas for Nigeria, Ghana or Togo in Benin, so apply before you travel.