Visa Requirements for Traveling to Togo

Traveling to Togo is fairly straightforward when it comes to visas, but there are a few steps to keep in mind before you go. The specific visa requirements depend on your nationality and how long you plan to stay in the country. Let’s go over the key details, including the types of visas you can apply for and the application process.

Types of Visas for Togo

Tourist Visa

If you’re planning to visit Togo for a short period (usually 30 days or less), you’ll need a tourist visa. This is the most common visa for travelers exploring the country for leisure or tourism purposes.

You can apply for a tourist visa either at a Togolese embassy or via Togo’s e-visa system. The tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 30 days, but it can be extended once you’re there.

Business Visa

If you’re visiting Togo for work or business meetings, you’ll need a business visa. The process is almost identical to applying for a tourist visa, but you may need to provide a letter from your employer or business contacts in Togo to support your application.

A business visa typically allows stays shorter than 90 days, but if you need to stay longer, you can inquire about a longer-term visa at the embassy.

Transit Visa

A transit visa is for travelers passing through Togo on their way to another country. It’s required for travelers staying in Togo for a short time (usually less than 24 hours) while waiting for their connecting flight or onward journey.

If you’re not leaving the airport, you may not need a transit visa. But it’s always good to confirm with the airline or relevant authorities just to be sure.

Long-Term Visa

If you’re considering a longer stay in Togo, you’ll need to apply for a long-term visa. This visa is mainly for expatriates or individuals moving to Togo for work, volunteer work, extended study, or as part of a diplomatic mission.

The requirements for this visa are more involved, and you’ll likely need to get documentation from your sponsoring organization in Togo. Expect processing times to be longer as well.

Countries Exempt from a Visa to Togo

Residents of some countries do not need a visa to enter Togo for short stays, typically for up to 90 days. If you’re from one of these countries, you can enter Togo with just your passport—no visa needed.

Here is the list of visa-exempt countries:

Benin
Burkina Faso
Côte d’Ivoire
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Liberia
Mali
Niger
Nigeria
Senegal

If you’re from one of these countries, you can enter Togo by showing a valid passport. However, it’s still a good idea to check with your local Togolese consulate or embassy for any recent updates before you travel.

e-Visa to Togo

If you’re from a country that requires a visa but would prefer not to go through an in-person embassy visit, Togo offers an e-visa option for tourists and business travelers. It’s fast and can be done entirely online.

Steps for Applying for a Togolese e-Visa

Go to the official Togolese e-visa website.
Fill out the online application form with your personal details, travel itinerary, and passport information.
Upload the required documents: a passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport’s biographical page.
Pay the visa fee using a credit card or other accepted payment method.
Wait for your e-visa to be processed. Once approved, you’ll receive an email with a link to download your e-visa.
Print a copy of the e-visa and bring it with you—it must be presented upon arrival in Togo.

The e-visa usually takes around 3–7 business days to process, so it’s a good idea to apply well ahead of your planned travel date.

Practical Tips for the e-Visa Process

Double-check that all the information entered matches what is on your passport.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in Togo.
Have a clear, high-quality scan of your passport and ID photo ready for upload.
If you don’t get your e-visa within 7 days, check your spam or junk folder before contacting the e-visa support team.

Documents Needed for Visa Applications

For both a regular visa and an e-visa, you’ll need to provide essential documents. These typically include:

Your passport, which should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
A completed visa application form (if applying at the embassy).
Two passport-sized photos.
A copy of your round-trip flight itinerary or proof of onward travel.
If you’re staying in Togo for business purposes, you might also need a letter of invitation or a company letter.

Each embassy might have its specific process, so it’s best to check with the one you’re applying through to confirm all document requirements.

Visa on Arrival

Togo also offers visas upon arrival at major entry points, including Lomé Airport and certain land borders. However, getting a visa on arrival can sometimes be tricky due to long lines or documentation checks with border control.

Getting a Visa on Arrival in Togo

If you’d prefer to obtain your visa upon arrival, here are the steps you’ll need to follow:

After landing at Lomé Airport or crossing one of the eligible land borders, go to the visa on arrival desk.
Fill out the application form at the desk and provide a passport photo.
Pay the required visa fee in cash (having exact change helps).
You’ll receive a visa that allows you to stay in Togo for up to 7 days. If you need to extend your stay, you’ll have to go to Lomé’s immigration office.

The cost for a visa on arrival is generally $30–$50 USD. Since it’s payable in cash, make sure to have crisp bills, as some officials may not accept damaged notes.

Keep in mind that this visa is often only valid for a week. You can extend your visa once you’re in the country if needed, but you’ll have to visit the immigration office in Lomé to do so.

Extending Your Stay in Togo

If you need to stay longer in Togo than your visa allows, you can apply for an extension at the immigration office in Lomé.

You’ll need to bring:

Your original passport.
Your current visa (whether e-visa, tourist, or business visa).
A completed visa extension application form.
A fee (typically around $30–$50 USD, but this can vary depending on your nationality and visa type).

Visa extensions are usually granted for an additional 30 days, but it’s a good idea to apply at least 2–3 days before your current visa expires to avoid complications.

Practical Advice for Togo Visa Applications

Start your visa application process early. Embassy-approved visas can take more than two weeks to process depending on your country.
Make copies of all your travel documents, including your passport and visa. Keep a digital backup for peace of mind.
Keep up-to-date on any travel advisories or entry restrictions. These can change based on local or international events.
Plan ahead for vaccination requirements: Togo typically asks for proof of yellow fever vaccination at entry points.

Conclusion

Getting a visa for Togo is a manageable task, as long as you start your application early and have all your documents in order. Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa, business visa, or e-visa, the process is relatively straightforward. Visa on arrival is also an option if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to double-check the requirements for your country and entry point to avoid any surprises when you arrive in Togo.