Nouakchott Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, serves as the primary entry point for international travelers visiting this West African nation. Entry requirements for Mauritania are relatively straightforward but require advance planning, as most foreign nationals need to obtain a visa before arrival. The country has implemented an electronic visa system that has simplified the application process for eligible travelers, though traditional visa applications through embassies remain necessary for some nationalities. Upon arrival at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport, travelers will proceed through immigration control where passports, visas, and supporting documentation will be checked. The immigration process is generally efficient, though delays can occur during peak travel times. All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. It's important to note that Mauritania is an Islamic republic, and travelers should be prepared to respect local customs and regulations from the moment of entry. Before traveling to Nouakchott, ensure you have obtained the appropriate visa, have proof of yellow fever vaccination (if arriving from an endemic country), and have arranged accommodation as proof of lodging may be requested. Travel insurance is highly recommended, and travelers should register with their embassy upon arrival for extended stays. Currency declaration is required for amounts exceeding certain thresholds, and customs regulations are strictly enforced.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Mauritania requires most foreign nationals to obtain a visa before entry. The country operates an electronic visa (e-visa) system for eligible nationalities, while others must apply through Mauritanian embassies or consulates. Very few countries enjoy visa-free access to Mauritania.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days

Citizens of member states of the Arab Maghreb Union can enter without a visa

Includes

Algeria Libya Morocco Tunisia

Visa-free access is very limited. Most travelers will require a visa regardless of nationality. Some diplomatic and official passport holders may have different arrangements.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Typically 30 days, with options for single or multiple entry

Most foreign nationals can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All EU member states Japan South Korea China India Brazil South Africa Most other countries

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Mauritanian e-visa portal (https://evisa.mauritania.mr) at least 5-7 business days before travel. Upload required documents including passport copy, photo, and proof of accommodation. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days.
Cost: Approximately €60-120 EUR depending on visa type and duration

Print the e-visa approval and present it upon arrival along with your passport. The e-visa must be obtained before travel; it is not available on arrival. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.

Visa on Arrival

N/A

Visa on arrival has been largely replaced by the e-visa system

How to Apply: Visa on arrival is generally no longer available for most nationalities. Travelers should obtain an e-visa or embassy visa before departure.

While some sources mention visa on arrival, it is unreliable and not recommended. Always obtain a visa in advance to avoid entry denial.

Embassy Visa

Varies, typically 30-90 days

Some nationalities or special circumstances may require traditional embassy visa application

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Mauritanian embassy or consulate. Submit passport, application form, photos, invitation letter or proof of accommodation, and travel itinerary. Processing can take 1-3 weeks.

Required for nationalities not eligible for e-visa or for special visa types (work, study, residence). Contact the embassy for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport, travelers will go through immigration and customs controls. The process is generally straightforward if you have all required documents prepared and organized.

Disembarkation

Exit the aircraft and follow signs to immigration control. Have your passport, visa, and arrival documents ready.

Health Screening

Present your yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting through an endemic country. Temperature checks may be conducted.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, e-visa printout or visa stamp, and completed arrival card to the immigration officer. Your documents will be checked and your passport will be stamped with entry permission.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim and collect your luggage. Verify all items are present before leaving the area.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if carrying items to declare. Proceed through customs inspection, which may include baggage screening.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the arrivals hall where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet contacts.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay with at least 2 blank pages for stamps

Visa

Printed e-visa approval or visa stamp in passport obtained before travel

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. May be requested from all travelers.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter, or address where you will be staying

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Mauritania (may be requested)

Arrival Card

Completed immigration arrival card (usually provided on the flight or at immigration)

Customs Declaration Form

If carrying declarable items or currency exceeding the threshold

Tips for Smooth Entry

Keep all documents organized and easily accessible in a travel folder before approaching immigration

Print multiple copies of your e-visa approval in case one is retained by immigration officials

Dress modestly and respectfully when entering the country, as Mauritania is an Islamic nation

Have local currency (Mauritanian Ouguiya) or euros/dollars for immediate expenses, though exchange facilities are available at the airport

Be patient and courteous with immigration officers; remain calm if questioned about your travel plans

Keep your passport and entry stamp safe as you will need to show it when departing the country

Take note of your visa expiration date and do not overstay, as penalties can be severe

Customs & Duty-Free

Mauritanian customs regulations are strictly enforced. All travelers must comply with duty-free allowances and declare prohibited or restricted items. False declarations or attempts to smuggle contraband can result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation.

Alcohol

Alcohol importation is prohibited

Mauritania is an Islamic republic where alcohol is illegal. Do not attempt to bring any alcoholic beverages into the country.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

For personal use only. Travelers must be 18 years or older.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use

Typically up to 50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette

Currency

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

Complete a currency declaration form upon entry. Keep the form for exit. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated.

Gifts/Goods

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

Commercial quantities will be subject to duty. New items in original packaging may be questioned.

Prohibited Items

Alcoholic beverages - strictly forbidden due to Islamic law
Pork products - forbidden under Islamic dietary laws
Narcotics and illegal drugs - severe penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition - without proper permits
Pornographic materials - including magazines, videos, and digital content
Materials deemed offensive to Islam - religious materials for proselytizing
Counterfeit goods - fake designer items, pirated media
Drones - without prior authorization from authorities

Restricted Items

Medications - bring prescription and doctor's letter for controlled substances or large quantities
Professional camera/video equipment - may require temporary import permit
Satellite phones - require special permission from telecommunications authority
Religious materials - non-Islamic religious texts may be scrutinized
Binoculars and GPS devices - may be questioned for security purposes
Large amounts of cash - must be declared if exceeding threshold

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entry into Mauritania include mandatory vaccinations depending on your travel history, and strongly recommended preventive measures for tropical diseases prevalent in the region.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - mandatory if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country (certificate must be presented at entry). Recommended for all travelers regardless of origin.
Polio - proof of polio vaccination may be required for travelers from countries with active polio transmission

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A and B - due to potential exposure through food, water, or medical procedures
Typhoid - especially if visiting rural areas or eating street food
Meningitis (ACWY) - particularly during dry season (December-June)
Rabies - if planning extended stays or working with animals
Routine vaccinations - ensure measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis are up to date

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Nouakchott are limited, and serious conditions may require evacuation to Europe. Ensure your policy covers Mauritania and includes repatriation.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health requirements before travel as these can change rapidly. Visit your country's travel health advisory website or consult a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all travelers to Mauritania. Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications in original containers with prescriptions.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Your Country's Embassy/Consulate

Locate your country's diplomatic mission in Nouakchott before travel

Register with your embassy upon arrival for extended stays. Check your government's travel advisory website for current security and safety information for Mauritania.

Mauritanian Immigration Authority

Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) - handles immigration matters

For visa extensions, registration requirements, and official immigration information. E-visa portal: https://evisa.mauritania.mr

Emergency Services

Police: 117 | Fire: 118 | Ambulance: 101

Response times may vary. For medical emergencies, contact your embassy for recommendations on medical facilities or evacuation services.

Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport

Airport information and services

Airport code: NKC. Limited facilities available; plan accordingly for departures.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For official inquiries regarding visas and entry requirements

Contact through Mauritanian embassy in your country or official government websites

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport and visa. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) in French or Arabic with English translation. Birth certificates may be requested. Children are subject to the same vaccination requirements as adults, including yellow fever if applicable.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require an import permit from the Ministry of Rural Development and Environment, obtained in advance. Required documents include: valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and proof of microchip. Pets must be examined upon arrival. Some breeds may be restricted. Contact the Mauritanian embassy for current requirements and to initiate the permit process well in advance.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days. For stays beyond your visa validity, you must apply for an extension at the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale in Nouakchott before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or deportation. For work, study, or residence, you must obtain the appropriate visa type and may need to register with local authorities. Temporary residence permits are available for longer stays and require additional documentation including proof of accommodation, financial means, and purpose of stay.

Business Travelers

Business visitors need a business visa, which may be obtained through the e-visa system or embassy. Required documents include an invitation letter from the Mauritanian company or organization, proof of business registration, and detailed itinerary. Business visas may allow multiple entries. Register with local authorities if conducting extended business activities.

Dual Nationals

Dual nationals should enter and exit Mauritania using the same passport. If you hold Mauritanian citizenship, you must enter on your Mauritanian passport. Consult the Mauritanian embassy regarding requirements for dual nationals as some countries do not recognize dual citizenship.

Travelers with Disabilities

Facilities for travelers with disabilities are limited in Mauritania. Notify your airline in advance of any special assistance needs. Bring necessary medical equipment and medications with supporting documentation. Consider arranging private transportation and accessible accommodation in advance.