Guide to Residency in Ivory Coast

Obtaining a residency visa in Ivory Coast is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Ivory Coast gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Prepare Required Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Birth certificate
  • Police clearance certificate from your country of origin
  • Medical certificate issued by an approved medical center in Ivory Coast
• Obtain a Long-Stay Visa
  • Apply at the Ivorian embassy or consulate in your country of residence
  • Provide the required documents ( passport, photographs, application form, etc.)
  • Pay the visa application fee
• Register with the Office of Immigration (Office National de l'Immigration - ONI) upon arrival
  • Visit the ONI website for more information: ONI
  • Submit the required documents (passport, long-stay visa, etc.)
  • Pay the registration fee
• Apply for a Tax Number (Numéro Contribuable)
  • Visit the Directorate General of Taxes (Direction Générale des Impôts - DGI) website for more information: DGI
  • Submit the required documents (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
  • Complete the application form
  • Pay the application fee
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a bank that suits your needs
  • Provide the required documents (passport, tax number, etc.)
  • Complete the account opening form
  • Make the initial deposit
• Apply for a Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)
  • Visit the National Police (Direction de la Police Nationale) website for more information: Police Nationale
  • Submit the required documents (passport, long-stay visa, tax number, bank statement, etc.)
  • Complete the application form
  • Pay the application fee
• Renew your Residence Permit
  • Follow the same procedure as the initial application
  • Submit the additional required documents (proof of residence, employment contract, etc.)
  • Pay the renewal fee

Important Notes

The process of obtaining residency status in Ivory Coast can be lengthy and involves several steps. It is important to gather all the required documents and follow the procedures carefully. Additionally, foreigners are advised to check the official websites or contact the relevant authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

It is also recommended to have copies of all the documents translated into French, as it is the official language of Ivory Coast.

Foreigners are advised to comply with the Ivorian laws and regulations throughout their stay in the country.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Ivory Coast?

"To enter Ivory Coast, visitors must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Ivory Coast, applicants must submit a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a valid work permit or residence permit. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Ivory Coast.