Comoros Visa RequirementsFor United States passport holders
US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in the Comoros Islands for approximately $50, valid for up to 45 days. This remote Indian Ocean archipelago off the East African coast is one of the world's least-visited destinations, offering pristine diving, volcanic scenery, and authentic local culture far from tourist crowds.
United States passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Comoros ports of entry.
No advance visa application is needed for US citizens. Pay approximately $50 at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) on Grande Comore upon arrival, or at other entry points. Bring US dollars as the fee must be paid in cash , credit card payment may not be available. A 45-day stay is granted. Keep your passport safe , a copy stored separately is recommended.
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
Entry Conditions
Valid passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and visa fee required.
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date with at least 2 blank pages
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm). Bring extra copies as requirements may vary
Completed Arrival Card
Immigration arrival/departure card provided on flight or at port of entry
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservation, booking confirmation, or address where you will be staying
Return or Onward Flight Ticket
Confirmed flight booking showing departure from the country within visa validity
Visa Fee (Cash)
Payment for visa on arrival fee - bring exact amount in USD or local currency
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Cash, credit cards, or bank statements showing adequate funds for your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended coverage for medical emergencies during your trip
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Comoros is relatively safe for tourists. Petty crime exists but violent crime is rare. Political instability has occurred in the past but the situation is generally calm. The islands are remote and infrastructure is basic. Avoid demonstrations and monitor local news.
Money & Costs
Currency
CF Comorian Franc (KMF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 · Mid: $100 · Luxury: $200+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips for good service welcome.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, E, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
17 (Police)
Getting There
Main Airports
Moroni (HAH)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Comoros is during the dry season from May to October. The wet season (November-April) brings heavy rainfall and cyclone risk. July and August offer the most pleasant weather. The islands are tropical year-round with temperatures between 23-28°C.
Cultural Notes
Comoros blends African, Arab, and French influences. Islam is the dominant religion, and the society is conservative. Traditional music and dance are important. The Coelacanth, a "living fossil" fish, was discovered here. Each of the three islands (Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan) has distinct character.
Insider Tips
French and Arabic are official languages; Comorian is also spoken. The Comorian Franc is the currency. The islands produce most of the world's ylang-ylang (perfume ingredient) and are major vanilla producers. Internet is limited. Bring cash as ATMs are unreliable.
Current Travel Situation
United States to Comoros: What You Need to Know
The Comoros is a small island nation of three volcanic islands (Grande Comore/Ngazidja, Mohéli/Mwali, and Anjouan/Ndzuani) in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and the East African coast. A fourth island, Mayotte, is a French territory and not part of the Comoros. The country is majority Muslim with strong Swahili and Arabic cultural influences. Despite its extraordinary natural beauty, the Comoros receives only a few thousand tourists per year, making it one of the world's most genuinely off-the-beaten-path destinations.
How to Get There
Getting to Comoros requires effort. The most reliable routing from the US: fly to Nairobi (NBO) or Addis Ababa (ADD) and connect via Kenya Airways or Ethiopian Airlines to Moroni (HAH) on Grande Comore. Madagascar (Antananarivo) also has connections. Some services connect via Réunion or Mayotte. Total journey from the US: 24–36 hours. Inter-island travel within Comoros is by Comoros Aviation propeller planes or ferry.
Money & Banking
Comoros uses the Comorian Franc (KMF). EUR is widely accepted alongside KMF (Comoros has currency parity with the Euro via the CFA zone). USD is exchangeable at banks but less common in daily use. ATMs exist but are unreliable , bring sufficient EUR cash. Comoros is affordable by Western standards but prices have risen as the island economy is small.
Practical Tips
Comoros' highlights: Mount Karthala (an active shield volcano on Grande Comore, hikeable with guide), the historic old town of Moroni with its Arab-style architecture and ancient mosque, Mohéli Marine Park (one of the Indian Ocean's best diving and snorkeling areas, sea turtle nesting, humpback whales July–September), the beautiful beaches of Anjouan, and the extraordinary flavors of Comorian cuisine (ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cloves are cultivated here , the "Islands of the Moon" produce some of the world's finest vanilla).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Comoros?
A visa on arrival is available at Moroni airport for approximately $50 USD cash. It grants a 45-day stay. No advance application is needed.
How do I get to Comoros from the US?
Fly via Nairobi (Kenya Airways to Moroni) or Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines) with connections to Grande Comore (HAH). Total journey is 24–36 hours. Getting there requires effort but rewards the adventurous traveler.
What makes Comoros worth visiting?
Comoros is one of the world's least-visited countries — authentic, uncrowded, with outstanding diving in Mohéli Marine Park, an active volcano (Karthala), sea turtle and humpback whale encounters, and exotic spice production. For off-the-beaten-path travelers, it is extraordinary.
Is Comoros safe for American tourists?
Comoros is generally safe. The country has had some political instability historically, but tourist areas are low-risk. Medical facilities are extremely limited — comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Bring medications you need, as they may be unavailable locally.
What spices are produced in Comoros?
Comoros is known for ylang-ylang (used in Chanel No. 5 perfume — Comoros is the world's largest producer), vanilla, cloves, and cinnamon. The islands' agricultural produce gives them an exotic fragrance that is quite literally in the air.