Mauritania Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Mauritania, located in Northwest Africa, has specific entry requirements that all international travelers must meet. Most visitors require a visa to enter the country, which can be obtained either through an embassy or consulate before travel, or as a visa on arrival at Nouakchott-Oumtoun International Airport and other designated entry points. The country has implemented measures to facilitate tourism while maintaining border security, though the process can be more complex than some other destinations. Upon arrival in Mauritania, travelers will go through immigration and customs procedures at the port of entry. It is essential to have all required documentation ready, including a valid passport, visa (if applicable), proof of yellow fever vaccination, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. The immigration process is generally straightforward but can be time-consuming during peak hours. Officers may ask questions about your travel plans, accommodation, and purpose of visit. Travelers should be aware that Mauritania is a conservative Islamic country, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and laws. Entry requirements can change with little notice, particularly in response to regional security concerns or health emergencies. It is crucial to verify all requirements with the nearest Mauritanian embassy or consulate well in advance of your planned departure date, as policies may vary based on nationality and current circumstances.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Mauritania requires most international visitors to obtain a visa before entry. The country offers limited visa-free access, with most travelers needing to secure either a visa on arrival or a visa through an embassy or consulate prior to travel.

Visa-Free Entry

Varies by agreement

Very limited visa-free access to Mauritania

Includes

Citizens of certain ECOWAS member states may have visa-free access under specific conditions

Visa-free access is extremely limited. Most ECOWAS nationals still require visas. Always verify current status before travel.

Visa on Arrival

Typically 30 days for tourist visas

Many nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Nouakchott-Oumtoun International Airport and certain land borders

Includes

How to Apply: Available at the airport immigration counter. Bring passport photos, hotel reservation, and exact payment in euros or US dollars. Processing takes 30-60 minutes depending on queue length.
Cost: Approximately €60-120 (or USD equivalent) depending on nationality and visa type. Fees must often be paid in cash in euros.

Visa on arrival availability can be unpredictable. It is strongly recommended to obtain a visa in advance through an embassy to avoid potential issues. Some land borders may not offer visa on arrival services.

Embassy Visa Required

Typically 30-90 days depending on visa type

Visa must be obtained from a Mauritanian embassy or consulate before travel

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Mauritanian embassy or consulate at least 2-4 weeks before travel. Required documents typically include: valid passport (6+ months validity), completed application form, passport photos, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, proof of sufficient funds, yellow fever vaccination certificate, and visa fee payment.

This is the most reliable method for obtaining a Mauritanian visa. Processing times vary by location. Some nationalities face additional scrutiny or restrictions. Business visas require an invitation letter from a Mauritanian company or organization.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Mauritania, travelers will proceed through immigration control, baggage claim, and customs inspection. The process is generally orderly but can be slower than in more developed countries. Having all documents organized and readily accessible will expedite your entry.

Disembarkation and Health Screening

Exit the aircraft and proceed to the terminal. You may be required to present your yellow fever vaccination certificate before entering the immigration hall. Health screenings may be conducted depending on current health concerns.

Immigration Control

Join the appropriate queue (visa holders or visa on arrival). Present your passport, visa (or payment for visa on arrival), arrival card (if provided on the plane), and yellow fever certificate. Officers will review your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with an entry stamp.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to the baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Carts may be available for a small fee. Report any missing luggage to the airline representative immediately.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if you have items to declare. Proceed through the appropriate customs channel (goods to declare or nothing to declare). Customs officers may inspect your luggage, especially if you have declared items or are selected for random inspection.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the arrivals hall where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet your host/driver.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Mauritania, with at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa

Either a pre-arranged visa or payment/documentation for visa on arrival (depending on your nationality).

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required for all travelers arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Highly recommended for all visitors regardless of origin.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Mauritania. Immigration officers may request to see this.

Hotel Reservation or Invitation Letter

Proof of accommodation during your stay or an invitation letter from a host in Mauritania.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your visit.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with patience and allow extra time for immigration procedures, especially during peak travel periods.

Keep all important documents (passport, visa, vaccination certificate) in an easily accessible location, not packed in checked luggage.

Have passport-sized photos available as they may be required for visa on arrival applications.

Bring euros or US dollars in cash for visa fees and initial expenses, as ATMs may not be immediately accessible and credit cards are not widely accepted.

Dress modestly and conservatively when entering the country, respecting local Islamic customs.

Be polite and respectful to immigration and customs officers. Avoid photography in airport immigration and customs areas.

Make copies of all important documents and store them separately from the originals.

Have contact information for your accommodation and any local contacts readily available.

Customs & Duty-Free

Mauritanian customs regulations are designed to prevent the importation of prohibited items and ensure proper taxation of goods. As an Islamic country, Mauritania has strict prohibitions on alcohol and pork products. All travelers must declare items exceeding duty-free allowances and any restricted items.

Alcohol

Prohibited

Mauritania is an Islamic country where alcohol is strictly prohibited. Do not attempt to bring any alcoholic beverages into the country under any circumstances.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

For personal use only. Must be 18 years or older. Commercial quantities require special permits and duties.

Currency

Amounts exceeding 500,000 Ouguiya (MRU) or equivalent in foreign currency must be declared

All currency exceeding the threshold must be declared on the customs declaration form. Keep declaration forms for re-export when leaving.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to a reasonable value for personal use

New items in commercial quantities may be subject to duties. Electronics, cameras, and valuable items should be declared to avoid issues when departing.

Prohibited Items

Alcoholic beverages - strictly prohibited in this Islamic country
Pork products and pork-derived items - prohibited under Islamic law
Narcotics and illegal drugs - severe penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition - without proper authorization and permits
Pornographic materials - including magazines, videos, and digital content
Materials deemed offensive to Islam - religious materials that contradict Islamic teachings
Counterfeit goods - fake designer items, pirated media
Drones - without prior authorization from Mauritanian authorities
Satellite phones - without special permission from telecommunications authority

Restricted Items

Medications - bring prescription and doctor's letter for personal medications, especially controlled substances. Quantities should be reasonable for trip duration.
Professional camera and video equipment - may require declaration and temporary import permit for commercial use
GPS devices and radio equipment - may require registration or authorization
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - export of such items is strictly controlled
Plants and plant products - require phytosanitary certificates
Certain food items - fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products may be restricted

Health Requirements

Mauritania has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on preventing the spread of infectious diseases. All travelers should consult with a travel medicine specialist at least 4-6 weeks before departure.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required for travelers aged 9 months and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Proof of vaccination must be presented at immigration. The certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and is valid for life.
Polio - Travelers from polio-endemic countries may be required to show proof of polio vaccination

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food and water contamination
Typhoid - Recommended for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have contact with blood or body fluids
Rabies - Recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Meningococcal meningitis - Recommended, especially during dry season (December-June) when risk is higher
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
COVID-19 - Follow current guidance for vaccination requirements

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Mauritania are limited, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Europe. Ensure your policy covers the full duration of your stay and includes repatriation coverage. Some insurers exclude coverage for travel to certain regions of Mauritania due to security concerns.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly in response to disease outbreaks or pandemics. Check current COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and quarantine requirements before travel. Requirements may include pre-departure testing, proof of vaccination, health declaration forms, or quarantine upon arrival. Monitor official sources and your airline for the latest health protocols. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all travelers as Mauritania is a malaria-endemic country year-round.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Mauritania for assistance

Register with your embassy upon arrival. Most embassies are located in Nouakchott. Check your government's travel advisory website for contact details and current security information.

Immigration Authority

Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) - National Police and Immigration

For visa extensions, registration requirements, and official immigration matters. Located in Nouakchott. Inquire at your hotel or contact your embassy for current contact information.

Emergency Services

Police: 17 | Fire: 18 | Ambulance: 101

Emergency response times can be slow, especially outside major cities. Keep your embassy contact information readily available for emergencies.

Tourist Information

Office National du Tourisme de Mauritanie (ONTM)

Limited tourist information services available. Your hotel or tour operator may be more helpful for practical information.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s), including contact information and authorization for the child to travel. This letter should be in French or Arabic if possible, or accompanied by a certified translation. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. All children require the same visa as adults and must meet the same vaccination requirements (yellow fever for children over 9 months).

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets into Mauritania requires advance planning. Required documents include: a valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days before travel but not more than 12 months prior), an international health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, and an import permit from Mauritanian veterinary authorities. Pets must be examined upon arrival. Some breeds may be restricted. Airlines have specific requirements for pet transport. Consider the extreme heat and limited veterinary services before bringing pets to Mauritania.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas typically allow stays of 30-90 days. For longer stays, apply for a visa extension at the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale in Nouakchott before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and require justification, proof of accommodation, financial means, and payment of fees. For stays exceeding tourist visa limits, consider applying for a long-term visa (work, business, or residence permit) through the appropriate ministry. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, and difficulties with future travel.

Business Travelers

Business visitors require a business visa, which necessitates an invitation letter from a Mauritanian company or organization registered with local authorities. The letter should detail the purpose and duration of the visit. Business visas may allow multiple entries and longer stays than tourist visas. Register with local authorities if staying for extended periods. Keep all business documentation readily available during your stay.

Dual Nationals

Travelers holding both Mauritanian and another nationality should enter and exit Mauritania using their Mauritanian passport. Dual nationals may face additional scrutiny or requirements. Some countries do not recognize dual nationality, which can complicate consular assistance. Check with both countries' authorities about obligations and restrictions for dual nationals.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, photographers, and media professionals require special accreditation from the Ministry of Culture and Communication before arrival. Professional camera equipment may be subject to inspection and temporary import permits. Filming in certain areas, including government buildings, military installations, and strategic infrastructure, is prohibited. Unauthorized journalism activities can result in detention and equipment confiscation.