When Algerian travelers look for new horizons, West Africa offers a compelling blend of vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. At the heart of this region lies Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), a nation of bustling markets, French colonial heritage, soaring basilicas, and dense rainforests. From the modern energy of Abidjan to the historic charm of Grand-Bassam, it's a destination that engages all the senses.
For decades, navigating the visa process was a significant hurdle. Today, however, the journey from Algeria to Ivory Coast has been transformed by a streamlined, digital solution: the Ivory Coast eVisa.
This guide is your complete resource for navigating the eVisa application from Algeria. We'll cover the document requirements, the costs, the processing times, and every critical step to ensure your travel plans are seamless, secure, and stress-free.
Do Algerian Citizens Need a Visa for Ivory Coast?
Yes. This is the first and most important rule. Citizens of Algeria are required to obtain a visa to enter the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire. You cannot travel visa-free, and the "visa on arrival" process is now structured entirely through a mandatory online pre-approval.
The official method for Algerian citizens is the Ivory Coast eVisa (also known as the "SNEDAI" system or "Visa Électronique"). You must apply for and receive your eVisa approval letter before you leave Algeria.
Ivory Coast eVisa Online
The Ivory Coast eVisa is not a full visa sticker you get in advance. Instead, it is a mandatory online pre-approval system.
Here's how it works:
You apply online from your home in Algeria.
You submit your documents and payment.
The Ivorian authorities review your application.
You receive an eVisa approval letter (a PDF document) via email.
You print this letter and fly to the airport in Abidjan.
At the "Visa Électronique" counter, you present this letter, your passport, and provide biometrics (fingerprints) to have the final visa sticker placed in your passport.
This system combines online convenience with on-arrival security.
Ivory Coast eVisa Types for Algerian Citizens
The Ivorian eVisa system is refreshingly straightforward. While it offers different "purposes" for travel, the core visa issued is a 90-Day, Multiple-Entry visa. This provides fantastic flexibility for Algerian travelers.
The common visa types you can select during your application include:
Holiday eVisa (90 Days): The most common choice for tourism, leisure, and visiting family or friends.
Business eVisa (90 Days): For attending meetings, conferences, or exploring commercial opportunities.
Study eVisa (90 Days): For short-term courses or academic research.
Health eVisa (90 Days): For seeking medical treatment in Côte d'Ivoire.
Mission eVisa (90 Days): For short-term official or diplomatic missions.
As you can see from the table below, all these visa types for Algerian applicants share the same cost and terms.
How Much Does the Ivory Coast eVisa Cost from Algeria?
Understanding the cost is simple. The total Ivory Coast eVisa fee is divided into two parts: the government's visa cost and the agency's service fee.
Visa Cost (Government Fee): This is the mandatory, non-refundable fee charged by the Government of Côte d'Ivoire (via their partner, SNEDAI) to process your application.
Service Fee: This is an additional fee charged by a private visa agency for managing your application.
Total Fee: This is the all-inclusive price you pay for a fully managed, reviewed, and supported application.
We'll explain exactly what this service fee gets you in the "Government vs. Agency" section below.
How to Apply for the Ivory Coast eVisa from Algeria
Fill the Online Form: Enter your personal information, Algerian passport details, and travel information. Be sure your name exactly matches your passport.
Upload Your Documents: Attach digital copies of your passport, photo, and supporting documents. (See the full checklist below).
Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the total fee securely online with a credit card.
Wait for Processing: Your application is now under review. (See processing times below).
Receive Your eVisa Approval: Once approved, you will get an email with the subject "Visa Approuvé" containing your official approval letter as a PDF attachment.
Print Your Document: This is mandatory. You must print this approval letter (in color, if possible) and keep it with your passport.
What documents do I need to travel to the Ivory Coast?
To ensure your application is successful, gather these Ivory Coast Visa Requirements in digital format (PDF or JPG) before you start:
Valid Algerian Passport: Must be valid for at least six (6) months from your intended date of arrival.
Passport Bio-Data Page Scan: A clear, high-quality color scan of your passport's main information page.
Passport-Style Photo: A recent digital photo (within 6 months) with a white or plain light-colored background.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: This is 100% mandatory for all travelers from Algeria.
Confirmed Return Flight Ticket: An itinerary showing your flight from Algeria into and out of Côte d'Ivoire.
Proof of Accommodation: A confirmed hotel booking for your stay in Abidjan or elsewhere.
What Type of Algerian Passport is Required?
You must use a full, valid Algerian "Ordinary Passport." The eVisa system is designed for regular international travel. It is not intended for use with temporary travel documents, laissez-passer, or diplomatic passports, which are subject to different entry protocols. Your ordinary passport must meet the 6-month validity rule.
Additional Documents for Non-Holiday Visas:
For Business: A formal letter of invitation from your partner company in Côte d'Ivoire.
For Study: An acceptance letter from the Ivorian educational institution.
For Visiting Family: An invitation letter from your host, along with a copy of their Ivorian ID or residence permit.
E visa for Ivory Coast Yellow Fever Vaccination
We must emphasize this. Côte d'Ivoire is in the World Health Organization's "yellow fever belt." You will not be allowed to enter the country without a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (your "yellow card").
You must get this vaccination from a registered travel clinic in Algeria at least 10 days before you travel. You will need to upload a scan of this certificate with your eVisa application and show the physical card to health officials upon arrival in Abidjan.
How Long Does Ivory Coast eVisa Take?
Planning is key. You can choose a processing speed that matches your travel schedule.
Standard Processing: 6-9 Working Days This is the most economical option, perfect for those who plan their trips in advance.
Rush Processing: 4-7 Working Days A good balance for those who have less time and want a faster, prioritized review.
Super Rush: 3-5 Working Days The fastest option, designed for urgent business trips or last-minute travel emergencies.
"Working days" do not include weekends or Ivorian/French public holidays. We strongly recommend applying at least two weeks before your flight to be safe.
Arriving at Abidjan (ABJ) Airport: The Final Step
This is where your eVisa pre-approval comes into play. When you land at Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ):
Follow the signs for "Visa Électronique" or "eVisa".
At the dedicated counter, present your printed eVisa approval letter and your Algerian passport.
Your identity will be verified, and your biometrics (fingerprints) will be captured.
An immigration officer will print the official visa sticker and place it in your passport.
You can then proceed to the main immigration line to get your entry stamp.
Is ivory-coast-evisa.info an official government website?
No. ivory-coast-evisa.info is a private, third-party visa assistance agency. It is not affiliated with the Government of Côte d'Ivoire. We are experts who help travelers from Algeria get their eVisa application completed quickly and correctly for a service fee.
What am I paying "Service Fee" at ivory-coast-evisa.info?
You are paying for peace of mind and expert verification. The fee is an insurance policy against losing.
The service from ivory-coast-evisa.info covers:
Expert Review: A human visa expert personally reviews your application, photo, and passport scan before they are submitted.
Error Correction: If your photo is blurry or your flight itinerary is missing, the agency will contact you (via email, chat, or WhatsApp) and say, "This will be rejected. Please send a new one." They fix the problem.
24/7 Support: Confused about a question on the form (which may be in French)? An agency has a multilingual support team to help you.
Simplified Form: The agency's website is often more user-friendly and secure.
In short: The government site is a gamble. ivory-coast-evisa.info is a full-service, secure, and supported process designed to get you a 99% success rate on the first try.
Do I need to print my Ivory Coast eVisa approval?
Yes, absolutely. You must carry a printed copy of your approval letter. Airlines in Algiers will check for it before you board, and you must present it at the eVisa counter in Abidjan. Do not rely on your phone.
Can I use the Ivory Coast eVisa at land borders?
No. The eVisa system is currently only for entry via the Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) in Abidjan. It is not valid for entry at any of Ivory Coast's land borders.
Do my children need their own eVisa?
Yes. Every Algerian passport holder, regardless of age (including infants), must have their own individual eVisa application. You will need to submit a separate application for each child.
What are the photo requirements for an Algerian child's eVisa?
The rules are the same as for adults, but adapted for children.
White Background: The background must be plain white or off-white. (Tip: You can lay an infant on a clean white sheet).
No Obstructions: No toys, pacifiers, or parents' hands should be visible in the photo.
Eyes Open: The child should be looking at the camera with their eyes open (as much as possible for an infant).
Recent Photo: Must be taken within the last 6 months.
What if I make a mistake on my application?
On the Government Site: You cannot make changes after submission. The application will be processed as-is. If the error is critical, it will be rejected, and you must re-apply and pay again.
With an Agency: If you notice a mistake before it has been submitted to the government, you can contact the agency 24/7 to have it corrected. This is a key benefit of the service.
Is Ivory Coast safe for Algerian tourists?
Ivory Coast is a welcoming country, but like any travel, it requires common sense. Abidjan is a large, bustling city. Algerian travelers should:
Be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded markets.
Avoid displaying expensive items (phones, jewelry) openly.
Not walk alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
Use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps. Political stability has greatly improved, making tourism a safe and rewarding experience, especially in popular areas.
Conclusion: Your Ivorian Adventure Awaits
Côte d'Ivoire is a nation on the rise, offering Algerian travelers a unique and accessible West African adventure. The eVisa system has removed the old bureaucratic barriers, making the journey as simple as a few clicks.
By preparing your documents—especially your passport and Yellow Fever certificate—and applying for your eVisa in advance, you are guaranteeing a stress-free start to your trip. You'll be able to skip the uncertainty, and step off the plane in Abidjan ready to explore the vibrant heart of West Africa.
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