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Dr Congo Visa for Canada Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

Canadian citizens need a Democratic Republic of the Congo e-Visa before travel, applied for online through the DRC's official portal or the Ottawa embassy's site; typical cost is around USD 100-200 with processing of 3-7 business days.

Guide last updated September 29, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least 2 blank pages
  • A completed online e-Visa application with passport bio-data page uploaded
  • A recent digital passport photo (white background) uploaded during the application
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate — mandatory, checked on arrival
  • Travel health insurance covering the full stay is recommended
  • For business travel: an invitation letter from a DRC-based company or organization

Visa types

  • Tourist e-Visa: single entry, valid for use within 90 days of approval, permits a stay of up to 30 days; fee approximately USD 100-130
  • Business e-Visa: single or multiple entry, requires an invitation letter, permits longer stays; fee approximately USD 150-200
  • Multiple-entry visa: available for frequent business travelers through the DRC Embassy in Ottawa (ambardc.org) with additional documentation

How to apply online

  • Apply through the official DRC e-Visa portal or the Ottawa embassy's website (ambardc.org), which links to the application system
  • Steps: create an account, fill in personal and travel details, upload your passport photo page and a digital photo, pay the fee online by credit card, and wait for email approval
  • Standard processing takes 3-7 business days; some applicants report faster turnaround of 48-72 hours
  • Once approved, print the e-Visa approval letter to present alongside your passport on arrival at N'djili International Airport (Kinshasa) or other entry points
  • Some travelers still need to have the e-Visa verified with an immigration officer at arrival, so allow extra time at the airport

Fees & processing time

  • Tourist e-Visa: approximately USD 100-130
  • Business e-Visa: approximately USD 150-200
  • Online service/processing fee: sometimes an additional USD 10-20 charged by the portal
  • Standard processing: 3-7 business days; expedited options may be available directly through the embassy for urgent travel
  • Total typical cost for a Canadian tourist applicant: roughly USD 120-160 including service fees

Tips for Canada travelers

  • Apply at least 2-3 weeks before departure to allow for processing delays and any requests for additional documents
  • Print multiple copies of your e-Visa approval and carry your yellow fever certificate — both are checked closely on arrival
  • Business travelers should secure a detailed invitation letter early, as vague letters are a common cause of delay
  • Check Global Affairs Canada's travel advisory for the DRC before booking, as security conditions vary significantly by region, especially in the east
  • Keep digital and paper copies of all documents in case originals are requested at multiple checkpoints

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.