A visa is an endorsement placed within a passport that grants the holder official permission to enter a country that may not be a citizen of. It grants the holder permission to leave or stay in a country for a specified time period. Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to a particular country without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. This is a two-part series so be sure to read our blog post on countries in Africa that do not require a visa prior to entry and the purpose of a visa. 

A visa serves several important purposes:

1. Regulation of Entry and Stay
: Visas help countries control and regulate the entry, stay, and exit of foreign nationals within their borders. By requiring visas, countries can monitor and manage the flow of visitors, ensuring they meet specific entry criteria and stay only for authorized durations.

2. Security
: Visas are a tool for maintaining national security. They allow countries to screen individuals before they enter, checking for potential risks such as criminal records, health issues, or intentions to overstay or engage in illegal activities. This helps prevent threats to public safety and national security.

3. Economic and Social Management: 
By controlling who can enter and under what conditions, visas help manage economic and social impacts, such as job markets, social services, and infrastructure. They ensure that visitors contribute positively to the economy and do not burden public services.

4. Bilateral Relations
: Visa requirements often reflect the diplomatic relationships between countries. Reciprocal visa policies can enhance international cooperation, while restrictive policies might be used to address political or economic issues.

5. Legal and Compliance
: Visas ensure that travelers comply with immigration laws and policies. They outline the conditions of entry and stay, such as the purpose of the visit (tourism, business, education, etc.), and help enforce immigration regulations.

Overall, visas are a critical tool for countries to manage international travel, ensuring that it aligns with their national interests and policies. Here is a list of the countries in Africa that do not require a visa along with the maximum duration of stay allowed.

Many African countries require a visa for entry, either before arrival or upon arrival. Here are some of the countries in Africa that require visas for American travelers:

1. Visa Requirements for Algeria

To travel to Algeria, you will generally need to obtain a visa in advance unless you are from one of the few countries that have visa-free access.

Types of Visas:

1. Tourist Visa: Typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue and allows short-term stays. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your entry date with at least two blank pages is required.

     – Completed visa application form.

     – Passport-sized photographs.

     – Proof of travel itinerary including hotel bookings and return ticket.

     – Sometimes a letter of invitation from someone in Algeria.

     – Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay.

2. Business Visa: An invitation letter from the Algerian company you will be visiting.

     – Documents detailing the nature of your business visit.

     – Proof of previous business dealings in Algeria, if applicable.

     – Additional supporting documents as needed.

3. Work Visa: Requires:

     – A work contract with an Algerian company.

     – Certificate of no criminal record.

     – Medical insurance for the duration of stay.

     – Sometimes a medical certificate may be required

Application Process requires getting to the Nearest Consulate/Embassy to submit your application in person or follow the consulate’s instructions for mail applications.

-Gather Required Documents and ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.

– Pay Fees: Visa fees vary by country and visa type.

– Processing Time: Can take several weeks, so apply well in advance.

Additional Information:

– Visa Extensions: It is possible to apply for an extension while in Algeria. It’s advisable to do so well before your visa expires.

– Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for unexpected emergencies.

For the most accurate and updated information, check with the official Algerian consulate or embassy in your country or visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Algeria website.

2. Visa Requirements for Angola

To visit Angola, you will need to obtain a visa unless you are from a visa-exempt country. Here are the key requirements and steps to apply for an Angolan visa:

1. Types of Visas: Angola offers various visa types including tourist, business, work, and study visas. The specific requirements vary depending on the visa type you are applying for  Embassy of Angola

2. Common Requirements:

   – Completed Application Form: Fill out the visa application form in print or typed, signed by the applicant.

   – Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank pages.

   – Photographs: Two recent color passport-sized photos.

   – Travel Itinerary: Proof of travel arrangements, such as flight bookings.

   – Proof of Accommodation: Documentation of where you will be staying in Angola.

   – International Certificate of Vaccination: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.

3. Additional Documents for Specific Visas:

   – Tourist Visa: May require additional proof of travel plans or invitations.

   – Business Visa: Requires a business introduction letter from your employer and possibly an invitation from an Angolan business partner.

   – Work Visa: Needs an employment contract and academic credentials translated into Portuguese and authenticated.

   – Study Visa: Proof of enrollment in an Angolan educational institution.

4. Application Process:

   – Submit Application: Applications can be submitted at an Angolan consulate or embassy. Some visas may allow for online application or e-visa on arrival.

   – Biometric Data: Business visa applicants must provide biometric data.

   – Fees and Processing Time: Visa fees vary and are non-refundable. Processing times can range from a few days to several weeks, so apply well in advance of your travel dates.

5. Helpful Tips: 

   – Ensure all documents are translated into Portuguese where required.

   – Keep copies of all documents submitted.

   – Check for the most up-to-date information and requirements from official sources or the Angolan consulate nearest to you, as visa regulations can change.

For more detailed information and to ensure you meet all requirements, it’s recommended to consult the official Angolan embassy or consulate websites.

3. Visa Requirements for Benin (eVisa available)

Benin’s evisa process is one of the smoothest and hassle free. Here are the essential requirements for travelers to traveling to Benin:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Benin and have at least two blank pages.

2. Travel Itinerary: Proof of travel arrangements, including flight reservations (not necessarily purchased tickets).

3. Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay.

Additional Recommendations:

– Health and Safety: Ensure you have travel medical insurance and are aware of any health advisories or required vaccinations.

– Customs Regulations: Be familiar with Benin’s customs rules, such as declaring funds over CFA200,000 and limits on duty-free goods.

For the most accurate and current information, it is advisable to check with the nearest Beninese consulate or embassy before traveling.

4. Visa Requirements for Burkina Faso

To travel to Burkina Faso, you will typically need to secure a visa in advance, although some travelers can obtain a visa on arrival. The specific requirements and process can vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.

General Requirements:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and have at least one blank visa page.

2. Visa Application Form: Fully completed and signed.

3. Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos with a white background.

4. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Proof of vaccination is mandatory for entry.

5. Proof of Travel Arrangements: Such as a round-trip flight itinerary.

6. Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or an invitation letter if staying with friends or family.

7. Visa Fee: Fees vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.

Types of Visas:

– Tourist Visa: For sightseeing or visiting family/friends.

– Business Visa: For business activities.

– Transit Visa: For passing through Burkina Faso to another destination.

Visa on Arrival:

Some nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points like Ouagadougou Airport, though it is advisable to confirm this option in advance to avoid complications.

Fees:

Visa fees can range from $105 for a three-month single entry to $220 for a one-year multiple entry visa.

Application Process:

1. Embassy or Consulate: Apply through the Burkina Faso embassy or consulate in your country.

2. Submit Required Documents: Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.

3. Processing Time: Typically one to two weeks, but can vary.

Additional Notes:

– Health Insurance: Proof of international health insurance may be required.

– Medical Certificate: Sometimes a medical certificate showing overall health may be needed.

– Return Ticket: Proof of return or onward travel is necessary to ensure compliance with visa terms.

For the most accurate and updated information, it is recommended to check with the Burkina Faso embassy or consulate in your country before making travel plans.

5. Visa Requirements for Burundi

To visit Burundi, most travelers need a visa. Here are the key visa requirements and options:

1. Tourist Visa: 

   – Visa on Arrival: Available at Bujumbura International Airport for a fee of $100, valid for 30 days. Required documents include a valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining), travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and sometimes a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

   – Pre-Approved Visa: You can also apply for a visa at a Burundian embassy or consulate before traveling. The process involves filling out an application form, submitting a valid passport, passport-sized photos, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and proof of payment of visa fees.

2. Business Visa: Similar to the tourist visa but intended for business purposes. Required documents include a letter of invitation from a host company in Burundi and the same general documents as for a tourist visa.

3. Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of some East African Community member states, such as Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.

For a smooth application process, ensure all documents are complete and accurate, and consider applying several weeks in advance of your travel date. For the most current information, check with the nearest Burundian embassy or consulate.

6. Visa Requirements for Cameroon

To visit Cameroon, most travelers require a visa, which can be obtained either through an embassy or consulate, or via an online e-visa application system. Here are the key steps and requirements:

1. Visa Types: Cameroon offers several types of visas, including tourist, business, and short-term visit visas. Each type has its specific requirements and conditions based on the purpose of your travel.

2. Required Documents:

   – A completed visa application form.

   – A valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the date of entry.

   – Two passport-sized photos.

   – Proof of travel itinerary or round-trip tickets.

   – A letter of invitation if staying with a host or proof of accommodation if staying in a hotel.

   – Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay.

   – Visa fee payment (varies by nationality and visa type).

3. Application Process: You can apply for a Cameroon visa online via the official e-visa portal or through the nearest Cameroonian embassy or consulate. The processing time can vary, typically taking a few days to a few weeks

4. Validity and Duration: Tourist visas are usually valid for 90 days from the date of issue, allowing for stays of up to 30 days, which can be extended if necessary.

5. Additional Considerations: It’s recommended to have travel insurance, although it is not mandatory. Always check for any specific requirements based on your nationality before applying.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, you can visit the official websites of the Cameroonian embassies or their e-visa portal.

7. Visa Requirements for Chad

To travel to Chad, most visitors require a visa. Here is an overview of the visa requirements and application process:

1. Visa Exemptions: Citizens of certain countries, including Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Rwanda, Central African Republic, Mali, Senegal, Republic of the Congo, Mauritania, Togo, Ivory Coast, Niger, United Arab Emirates, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, and Turkey, can stay in Chad without a visa for up to 90 days. Holders of diplomatic passports from several other countries also have visa exemptions.

2. Visa Application:

   – Embassy/Consulate: Most travelers need to apply for a visa through a Chadian embassy or consulate. This involves filling out a visa application form, providing a passport valid for at least six months beyond the travel date, passport-sized photos, a round-trip ticket reservation, a cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit, proof of accommodation, and possibly a letter of invitation.

   – Visa on Arrival: Only citizens of Benin can obtain a visa on arrival without prior authorization. Others may need an authorization letter from the Chadian embassy.

3. Additional Requirements: An international certificate of vaccination for yellow fever is required. Missing documents can lead to visa refusal, so it’s important to ensure all requirements are met.

4. Processing Time and Fees: Visa fees and processing times can vary. It is advisable to apply well in advance to accommodate any potential delays.

5. Extensions: While it is sometimes possible to extend a visa once in Chad, it is not guaranteed, and overstaying can lead to fines and difficulties.

For the most current and specific information, it’s recommended to contact the nearest Chadian embassy or consulate or visit official government websites.

8. Visa Requirements for Comoros (visa on arrival)

For travelers to Comoros, the country generally offers a Visa on Arrival for most nationalities. Here are the key points regarding the visa requirements:

1. Visa on Arrival: Comoros issues visas on arrival for visitors from most countries. This visa allows for a short stay, typically up to 45 days:

2. Documents Required:

   – Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival and have at least two blank pages.

   – Travel Itinerary: Proof of travel arrangements, including reservations for accommodation and return or onward travel.

   – Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover the stay.

3. Application Process: The visa is obtained upon arrival at any major entry point in Comoros, such as airports or sea ports.

4. Restrictions: The Visa on Arrival is strictly for tourism purposes and does not permit engagement in employment or business activities. Overstaying the visa can result in fines and potential future entry restrictions.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to check with the nearest Comorian embassy or consulate before traveling.

9. Visa Requirements for Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo

To enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), all travelers need a visa, which can be obtained either in advance or, in specific circumstances, upon arrival.

General Requirements:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

2. Visa Application: Typically requires a completed form, passport-sized photos, proof of travel arrangements, and sometimes a letter of invitation.

3. Health Requirements: A valid International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever is mandatory.

Visa Types:

– Tourist Visa: Valid for up to 30 days, single or multiple entry.

– Business Visa: Similar validity but may require additional documentation like a business invitation.

– Visa on Arrival: Available at certain entry points for travelers from countries without a Congolese diplomatic mission, though it’s recommended to secure a visa beforehand to avoid complications.

Application Process:

1. Pre-Travel: It’s advisable to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip. Processing times can vary but typically range from 5 to 18 days.

2. On Arrival: Available only under specific conditions and at designated entry points. Verification of eligibility is recommended before travel.

Costs:

– Vary based on the type and duration of the visa, the cost varies.

Additional Information:

– Extension of Stay: Possible but must be applied for before the current visa expires through the Directorate General of Migration (DGM) in the DRC.

– Visa Validity: Typically from one to six months, but must be used within three months of issue.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check with the nearest Congolese embassy or consulate before making travel arrangements.

10. Visa Requirements for Congo, Republic of the Congo

To visit the Republic of the Congo, you will need to obtain a visa. The types of visas available include tourist, business, and official/diplomatic visas, each with specific requirements and durations:

1. Tourist Visa: This is valid for up to 90 days for non-U.S. citizens and up to 180 days for U.S. citizens, allowing multiple entries. You need to provide a completed application form, two passport-sized photos, a valid passport, an invitation letter or hotel reservation, proof of yellow fever vaccination, and a copy of your airline tickets.

2. Business Visa: This is valid for 30 days for non-U.S. citizens and up to 180 days for U.S. citizens, also allowing multiple entries. You need similar documents as for a tourist visa, with the addition of a notarized business letter detailing the purpose of your visit and contact information for your reference in the Congo.

3. Official/Diplomatic Visa: This is issued for 12 months with multiple entries and is exempt from visa fees. It is granted to individuals traveling on official government or international organization business.

For the application process, submit your documents to the nearest Republic of the Congo embassy or consulate. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and has at least two blank pages. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, check the official embassy website or a reliable visa information resource.

11. Visa Requirements for Djibouti (eVisa available)

To enter Djibouti, most nationalities will require a visa, which can be obtained either online (e-Visa) or through an embassy or consulate.

Types of Visas

1. e-Visa:

   – Purpose: Tourism or commerce.

   – Validity: Up to 90 days.

   – Entry: Only through Ambouli International Airport.

   – Application: Complete the application online, upload required documents, and wait for approval via email or SMS.

2. Tourist Visa:

   – Purpose: Short-term stays for tourism.

   – Validity: Up to 90 days.

   – Application: Apply at the nearest Djibouti embassy or consulate if not eligible for an e-Visa.

Requirements for Visa Application

1. Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay with at least two blank pages.

2. Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.

3. Passport Photo: Recent, colored, and meeting specified dimensions.

4. Travel Itinerary: Detailed plan of your trip, including flight and accommodation reservations.

5. Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Djibouti.

6. Travel Proof: Round-trip flight reservations.

7. Health Insurance: Valid for the duration of stay, covering any medical expenses.

8. Financial Proof: Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover the stay.

For longer stays (over three months), such as for work, study, or family purposes, applications must be made through a Djibouti embassy or consulate, providing additional documents like criminal records, marriage certificates, or university acceptance letters if applicable.

12. Visa Requirements for Eritrea

To visit Eritrea, almost all nationalities need to obtain a visa prior to travel, as visas on arrival are only available for citizens of Ethiopia and Sudan. Here are the general steps and requirements for obtaining an Eritrea visa:

1. Contact the Nearest Embassy or Consulate: Schedule an appointment at the Eritrean embassy or consulate in your home country.

2. Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the form accurately and completely.

3. Submit Required Documents: These typically include:

   – A passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages.

   – A passport-sized photo.

   – A round-trip flight itinerary.

   – Proof of accommodation in Eritrea.

   – A bank statement.

   – A criminal record certificate.

   – Proof of residency in your home country.

   – Yellow fever vaccination certificate if traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever.

4. Attend an Interview: Some applicants may need to attend an interview at the consulate or embassy.

5. Pay the Visa Fee: Fees vary depending on the type of visa, typically ranging from $30 to $70.

For specific details and the most up-to-date information, it’s advisable to contact the nearest Eritrean embassy or consulate directly.

13. Visa Requirements for Ethiopia (eVisa available)

To enter Ethiopia, you will generally need to obtain a visa. Here are the main options and requirements:

1. E-Visa: You can apply online for an e-Visa, which is valid for short stays (up to 90 days). This is the recommended method to avoid any issues upon arrival. You need a valid passport, a passport-size photo, and to complete an application form online.

2. Visa on Arrival: Available at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, usually for short stays of up to 90 days. This option is available for tourists and certain business purposes. You will need a valid passport, two passport-size photos, and any additional documents based on your travel purpose.

3. Tourist Visa: If applying at an Ethiopian embassy or consulate, you will need to present a completed application form, passport, passport copy, passport photo, proof of travel (such as flight reservations), and possibly proof of funds.

4. Yellow Fever Vaccination: A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

For detailed information and to apply online, you can visit the Ethiopian e-Visa website.

14. Visa Requirements for Gabon (eVisa available)

To enter Gabon, you will generally need a visa, unless you are from a country that is visa-exempt. Gabon offers several types of visas depending on your travel purpose, such as tourist visas, business visas, and e-visas.

Types of Visas for Gabon:

1. Visa-Free Entry: Some nationalities can enter Gabon without a visa for short stays. It is important to check the specific list of exempt countries.

2. Visa on Arrival: Available for certain nationalities, this allows for short stays and is issued at the point of entry.

3. E-Visa: This can be applied for online and typically allows for a stay of up to 30 days. The e-visa process is straightforward and can be completed on the official Gabonese e-visa platform.

4. Tourist Visa: For those visiting for tourism, this visa usually permits short stays.

Application Process:

1. Online Application: Fill out the application form on the official e-visa platform.

2. Documentation: Prepare necessary documents such as a passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and proof of sufficient funds.

3. Submission: Submit your application online or at a Gabonese consulate.

4. Fee Payment: Pay the visa fee, which varies based on the type and duration of the visa.

5. Processing Time: Wait for your visa to be processed, which can take several days to weeks, so it is advised to apply well in advance.

Important Tips:

– Vaccination Requirements: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required upon arrival.

– Extension: You can extend your stay by contacting the Directorate General of Documentation and Immigration in Libreville.

For the most current and detailed information, it’s recommended to consult the official Gabonese e-visa website or contact the nearest Gabonese embassy or consulate:

15. Visa Requirements for Ghana

To visit Ghana, most travelers, including those from the United States, need to obtain a visa prior to arrival. Here are the key points regarding the visa requirements and application process for Ghana:

1. Visa Types and Fees:

   – Single Entry Visa: Valid for 3 months, costing $60.

   – Multiple Entry Visa: Valid for up to 5 years, costing $100.

2. Application Process:

   – Complete the visa application online at the Ghana Embassy website.

   – Print the completed application form and gather the required documents, including a valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining), a passport-sized photo, and proof of payment.

   – Submit the application along with the documents either by mail or in person at the Ghanaian embassy or consulate

3. Processing Time:

   – Standard applications typically take 15-20 business days.

   – Rush service is available and takes about 7 business days.

4. Health Requirements

   – All travelers above nine months old must present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon entry.

5. Visa Exemptions:

   – Nationals from ECOWAS member countries (e.g., Nigeria, Togo, Burkina Faso) do not need a visa to enter Ghana.

   – Holders of diplomatic, service, or official passports from specific countries, including Brazil, Germany, and South Africa, are also exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90 days.

For the most up-to-date information and to apply for your visa, you can visit the official Ghana Embassy website.

16. Visa Requirements for Guinea

To visit Guinea, you need to apply for a visa, as Guinea does not offer visa exemptions to many countries except for neighboring West African states like The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal. There are different types of visas you can apply for based on the purpose of your travel:

1. Tourist Visa: Requires a valid passport, a passport-size photo, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, proof of accommodation, and a return flight ticket.

2. Business Visa: Requires a signed invitation letter from the host company in Guinea, a letter from your employer, a valid passport, a passport-size photo, and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

3. Transit Visa: Issued for short stops, requiring proof of onward travel and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

4. Long-term Visa: For stays longer than three months, needing additional documentation like a work contract approved by local authorities.

Applications can be made online through Guinea’s eVisa platform or via the Guinean embassy or consulate. Upon arrival, you’ll need to present your eVisa registration receipt and proof of sufficient funds.

17. Visa Requirements for Guinea-Bissau (visa on arrival)

To travel to Guinea-Bissau, most travelers, regardless of their nationality, require a visa. Here are the key details about the visa requirements and application process:

Visa Types and Eligibility

1. Tourist Visa: Typically valid for up to 90 days. Suitable for those visiting for tourism.

2. Business Visa: For business-related visits, often requiring an invitation from a company in Guinea-Bissau.

3. Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Guinea-Bissau on their way to another destination.

Application Process

– Visa on Arrival: Available to all nationalities for stays up to 90 days. Ensure you have a valid passport (at least six months beyond your stay), a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

– E-Visa: An electronic visa option allows you to complete the entire process online. This involves filling out an application form, uploading necessary documents, and paying the visa fee online. The e-Visa is then sent via email.

– Embassy or Consulate Application: Alternatively, you can apply at the nearest Guinea-Bissau embassy or consulate by submitting the required documents in person or by mail.

Required Documents

– Valid passport (minimum six months validity).

– Completed visa application form.

– Passport-sized photographs.

– Flight bookings and travel itinerary.

– Proof of accommodation.

– Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay.

– Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

Additional Tips

– Always check the latest travel advisories and visa requirements before you travel.

– Carry photocopies of important documents.

– Ensure your health and safety by getting necessary vaccinations and familiarizing yourself with local customs and laws.

For more detailed information and to ensure the latest updates, you can visit the official websites of Guinea-Bissau’s consular services or your home country’s embassy.

18. Visa Requirements for Ivory Coast (eVisa available)

To visit Ivory Coast, you must obtain a visa. Here are the key details regarding the visa requirements:

1. Visa Types: You can apply for an eVisa online or obtain a visa on arrival at the Abidjan airport. The eVisa system is recommended for its convenience.

2. Application Process:

   – Apply for an eVisa at least 10 working days before traveling.

   – Provide a valid passport, a copy of your return ticket, proof of accommodation, and payment for the visa fee.

   – Once approved, the eVisa is valid for multiple entries within 90 days.

3. Health Requirements:

   – You must have a certificate of yellow fever vaccination to enter the country.

4. Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

5. Visa Costs: The fee for an eVisa is approximately 80 USD).

Make sure to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements on official websites or contact the nearest Ivory Coast embassy for any updates.