Guinea-Bissau Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in Guinea-Bissau for up to 90 days at a cost of approximately $85 USD.
Canada passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Guinea-Bissau ports of entry.
A visa on arrival is available at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau. The fee is approximately $85 USD, payable in cash (US dollars or euros are generally accepted). Bring passport photos as they are typically required for the visa application form. Carry proof of onward travel and accommodation. It is strongly advisable to verify current entry requirements with the Guinea-Bissau embassy before departure, as policies can change.
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
Canada to Guinea-Bissau: What You Need to Know
Guinea-Bissau is a small West African nation bordered by Senegal and Guinea, with a coastline dotted by the Bijagos Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its wildlife, including saltwater hippos and nesting sea turtles. The country receives relatively few tourists, making it an off-the-beaten-path destination. The visa on arrival makes entry straightforward for Canadians, though travelers should be prepared for limited tourist infrastructure outside the capital, Bissau.
Practical Tips
Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA franc (XOF). Infrastructure outside Bissau is very basic; few roads are paved and healthcare facilities are severely limited. Travel insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is essential. Malaria is hyperendemic; take prophylaxis and use insect protection. The Bijagos Islands require boat transport and ideally a local guide or organized tour. The rainy season runs from June to October, making travel to the islands difficult.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Guinea-Bissau?
Canadians can obtain a visa on arrival in Guinea-Bissau for up to 90 days. The fee is approximately $85 USD, payable in cash at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau.
What is the Bijagos Archipelago?
The Bijagos Archipelago is a group of approximately 88 islands and islets off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is one of the few places in the world where saltwater hippos can be observed, and it hosts major nesting colonies of sea turtles and diverse birdlife.
Is Guinea-Bissau safe for tourists?
Guinea-Bissau has experienced political instability and has limited infrastructure. The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution. Violent crime is less common than petty theft, but the healthcare system is severely limited. Travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is essential.
What currency is used in Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), which is shared with several other West African nations. US dollars and euros can be exchanged in Bissau but are not widely accepted for direct transactions outside the capital.