On 11 September, Burkina Faso’s government announced the elimination of visa fees for all African nationals, aiming to make the country more accessible to international travelers.
The Council of Ministers confirmed on Wednesday that citizens from all 54 African countries will no longer be required to pay for travel visas, though the measure does not extend to non-sovereign territories. Officials emphasized that this policy, introduced under the 2025 financial amendments law, is intended to boost both tourism and business appeal in Burkina Faso, rather than to create a blanket visa exemption.
Previously, a standard tourist visa could cost around €83, while a multi-entry business visa could reach €183. In 2023, Burkina Faso had also launched an electronic visa system to simplify travel and streamline trade.
Critically, while the move reduces a financial barrier for African travelers, it does not address broader issues such as safety, infrastructure, or regional connectivity, which also affect the country’s attractiveness as a tourist or business destination.
