DR Congo Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
UK nationals require a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The FCDO advises against all travel to significant parts of the country, particularly the east, due to ongoing armed conflict.
United Kingdom passport holders require a visa to enter DR Congo.
Visas must be obtained in advance from the DRC Embassy in London at 281 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8QF. The standard tourist or business visa costs $185. Required documents typically include a completed application form, passport photos, a letter of invitation from a Congolese national or organisation, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, yellow fever vaccination certificate, and a bank statement. Processing can take 1 to 2 weeks. Check directly with the embassy for current requirements, as they 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
United Kingdom to DR Congo: What You Need to Know
The Democratic Republic of Congo is the second-largest country in Africa and one of the world's most complex conflict environments. The eastern provinces of North and South Kivu, Ituri, and Tanganyika have experienced prolonged armed conflict involving numerous armed groups, and the FCDO advises against all travel to these areas. The capital Kinshasa and western provinces are more accessible, and some UK nationals travel for business, journalism, or humanitarian purposes. The DRC visa costs $185 and must be obtained before travel.
Practical Tips
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Malaria prevention is essential throughout the country. US dollars (clean, post-2006 notes in good condition) are the standard currency for most transactions. The Congolese franc (CDF) is used for everyday local purchases. Mobile money (M-Pesa and others) is widely used. Medical facilities outside Kinshasa are extremely limited. Register with the FCDO before travel and maintain daily contact with a trusted local liaison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK nationals need a visa for the Democratic Republic of Congo?
Yes. A visa is required and must be obtained in advance from the DRC Embassy in London (281 Gray's Inn Road, WC1X 8QF). The visa costs $185.
Is the DRC safe to visit for UK travellers?
The FCDO advises against all travel to the eastern provinces (North and South Kivu, Ituri, Tanganyika) due to serious and ongoing armed conflict. Travel to Kinshasa and western DRC is possible but carries elevated risks; exercise extreme caution and have a detailed security plan.
What vaccinations are required for the DRC?
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Additionally, mpox (formerly monkeypox) has been present in parts of the DRC; check current health notices. Malaria prophylaxis is essential throughout the country. Consult a travel health clinic well in advance.
What currency is used in the DR Congo?
The Congolese franc (CDF) is the official currency, but US dollars (clean, post-2006 notes in good condition) are widely used for larger transactions. Tattered or pre-2006 dollar bills are commonly rejected. ATMs are available in Kinshasa but unreliable elsewhere.