Benin Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australian passport holders require an eVisa to visit Benin. The eVisa costs USD 50 and is valid for a single entry stay of up to 30 days.
Australia passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Benin.
Apply for the Benin eVisa through the official portal at evisa.gouv.bj. The application requires a valid passport with at least six months remaining validity, a passport-sized photo, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and payment of USD 50 by credit card. Processing typically takes 48 to 72 hours. Print the eVisa approval to present on arrival. The eVisa must be used within 90 days of issuance.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to Benin: What You Need to Know
Benin is a West African country known as the birthplace of the Vodoun (voodoo) religion and home to the historic Kingdom of Dahomey, with significant UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tourism infrastructure is developing but remains basic outside major centres like Cotonou and Ouidah. Travellers should be aware of a moderate risk of petty crime in urban areas and exercise elevated caution in the northern border regions with Burkina Faso and Niger, where terrorist activity has been reported.
Practical Tips
Travel to the northern regions of Benin near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger is not recommended due to terrorist activity and kidnapping risks. Carry physical copies of your eVisa and passport photo pages. The CFA franc (XOF) is the local currency: euros are widely accepted for exchange. Consult DFAT's Smartraveller advisory for Benin before departure and consider registering your travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Australians get a visa for Benin?
Australians apply for a Benin eVisa online through the official portal at evisa.gouv.bj before travel. The fee is USD 50 for a 30-day single-entry visa. Processing takes approximately 48 to 72 hours. Print the approval letter to present on arrival.
Is it safe to travel to Benin?
The south of Benin, including Cotonou, Porto-Novo, and Ouidah, is generally safer for tourists. However, the northern regions near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger have elevated risks of terrorist activity and kidnapping. DFAT advises Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in Benin overall and to avoid the northern border regions entirely.
What is Benin famous for?
Benin is considered the spiritual homeland of Vodoun (voodoo), with the city of Ouidah hosting an annual Vodoun Festival every January. The country also has a rich history as the Kingdom of Dahomey, whose palace complex in Abomey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The "Route of Slaves" in Ouidah commemorates the transatlantic slave trade.
What currency is used in Benin?
Benin uses the West African CFA franc (XOF). Euros can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices in Cotonou. ATMs are available in Cotonou but limited elsewhere. Carry sufficient local currency when travelling outside the capital.