Visa to Benin for citizens of USA
Entry is not allowed without prior visa
To enter Benin, travelers must have a valid passport and a tourist visa. The visa cannot be obtained upon arrival and must be obtained in advance. Benin offers an eVisa for tourism, business, and transit travelers, which can be applied for online. The eVisa is generally valid for 30 or 90 days, but U.S. citizens can extend it to 36 months without additional costs. Visitors to Benin are also required to have a yellow fever vaccine and present a World Health Organization Yellow Card as proof. There are no known HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Benin.
About
Benin is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso and Niger to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Its capital city is Porto-Novo, though the seat of government is in Cotonou, the largest city.
The nation's industrial base is developing, primarily focused on agriculture, cotton production, textiles, and small-scale manufacturing. Additionally, Benin is seeking to expand its economic potential through the development of tourism, particularly focusing on its cultural heritage and historical sites.
French is the official language of Benin, with several indigenous languages such as Fon and Yoruba widely spoken across different regions, reflecting the country's diverse ethnic makeup.
Benin's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, with significant portions of the population engaged in farming. Cotton is the country's primary export commodity, and other important agricultural products include maize, cassava, and yams. The country's culture is rich and varied, influenced by numerous ethnic groups and historical experiences, including the legacy of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
Benin is also known for its historical significance, with numerous cultural landmarks including the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the annual Voodoo Festival, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry despite economic and logistical challenges.