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Traveling from the tropical paradise of Barbados to the majestic landscapes of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a journey that bridges two vibrant cultures. However, the success of this adventure depends heavily on navigating the visa process with precision.

For Barbadian citizens, the Ordinary Flying eVisa serves as the digital gateway to Central Africa, and this guide explains the DRC eVisa for Barbados Citizens, covering application steps, health requirements, and local regulations for 2026.

Do Barbados Citizens Need a Visa for the DRC?

Yes. Currently, there is no visa-waiver agreement between Barbados and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Every Barbadian traveler, whether visiting for tourism or family, must possess a valid visa. The eVisa system is specifically designed for those entering via major international airports, replacing the older, more cumbersome "sticker" visas issued by embassies.

What exactly is the DRC Ordinary Flying eVisa?

The Ordinary Flying eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter the DRC for tourism. The term "Flying" refers to the fact that this specific eVisa is designed for travelers arriving via international airports (like N'djili Airport in Kinshasa). It is typically issued for a short-term stay, usually up to 30 days.

What is Stay Duration and DRC eVisa Validity?

The Ordinary Flying eVisa is typically issued for a stay of up to 7 days, though it is valid for entry within 90 days from the date of approval. If you plan to stay longer for research or extensive tourism, you may need to apply for a long-term visa at the nearest embassy or seek an extension in Kinshasa.

How Long Does It Take for DRC eVisa to be Approved?

Timing is critical when applying for a DRC visa, and understanding the Congo visa processing time helps travelers choose from the three processing speeds offered by the Congolese government to suit different schedules.

Note: "Working days" exclude weekends and public holidays in both the DRC and Barbados.

What Documents Do I Need for DRC eVisa?

To ensure your application is not rejected or delayed, you must provide high-quality digital scans that meet all Congo visa documents requirements, ensuring each document is clear, accurate, and properly formatted.

• Passport Bio-Page: Must be clear, showing all four corners of the page.


• Recent Passport Photo: Color, white background, no glasses, taken within the last 6 months.


• Motivation Letter: This is a vital document. It must be addressed to the Direction Générale de Migration and explain why you are visiting, where you will stay, and your commitment to leaving before the visa expires.

 Can I Apply for an Emergency eVisa?

The DRC does not offer a separate "Emergency Visa" category. Instead, travelers with urgent needs—such as medical emergencies or sudden business requirements, should utilize the Super Rush Processing tier. This prioritizes your application in the government queue, ensuring the fastest possible turnaround.

What are the Hotel Stay Rules for Tourists in DRC?

A "confirmed" accommodation is mandatory. If you are staying at a hotel, you must provide the reservation voucher. If you are staying with a resident, you must provide an "Attestation d'hébergement" (Invitation Letter) that has been notarized by the local town hall (Mairie) in the DRC.

What are Children Rules Travelers in DRC?

Children traveling to the DRC must have their own passports and eVisas. Additionally:

• Birth Certificate: A copy of the child’s birth certificate is often required.


• Parental Consent: If traveling with only one parent or a legal guardian, a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent is mandatory.

How to Apply for the DRC eVisa?

Applying is a four-step digital process:

1. Online Form: Enter your data exactly as it appears on your Barbados passport.


2. Document Upload: Attach your files in PDF or JPEG format (ensure they are under the size limit).


3. Payment: Use a secure credit card (Visa/Mastercard) for the processing fees.


4. Approval: You will receive a PDF via email. You must print this; digital copies on phones are often not accepted by boarding agents.

Do I Need a Return Ticket to Apply?

Yes, a return or onward ticket is a mandatory requirement. The Congolese authorities want to ensure that visitors have a confirmed plan to depart the country within their visa’s validity period.

Can I Bring a Drone from Barbados to DRC for Photography?

Drones (RPAS) are a sensitive topic in the DRC due to security concerns.

• Permits: You must obtain a permit from the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) before flying.


• Restrictions: Flying near airports, military bases, or government buildings will lead to immediate confiscation and potential arrest.


• National Parks: If you wish to film in Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega, you need a separate permit from the park authorities (ICCN).

What if My Passport Has Less Than 6 Months Validity?

Do not attempt to travel. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival. If your passport is nearing its expiry, renew it in Barbados before starting your eVisa application, as the visa is electronically linked to your passport number.

What Happens if I Overstay My Visa by 2 Hours?

The DRC takes visa expiration very seriously. Even an overstay of a few hours can result in:

• Heavy fines (often charged per day).


• Potential detention at the airport.


• Being labeled an "undesirable person," which could lead to a future ban on entry. Always ensure you are at the airport and checked in well before your visa expires.

Which Vaccines are Mandatory for Entry in DRC?

Health documentation is just as important as your visa:

• Yellow Fever: A Yellow Fever International Certificate of Vaccination is mandatory for all travelers. You must have received the shot at least 10 days before arrival.


• Polio:  Depending on current outbreaks, a polio booster may be required if you are staying longer than 4 weeks.


• Malaria: While not a vaccine, malaria is prevalent. Ensure you have prescribed prophylaxis and high-quality repellent.

What is a Sustainable Travel Tax?

Travelers should be aware of the "GoPass". This is an airport development tax of $50 USD for international departures. While some airlines are starting to include this in the ticket price, many still require you to pay it at a dedicated kiosk in the airport before check-in. Additionally, a $30 Security Fee (Securiport) is now standard for biometric processing.

Which Airports Feature Biometric Boarding in DRC?

The DRC is investing heavily in "Smart Borders." Currently, N'djili (FIH) in Kinshasa and Luano (FBM) in Lubumbashi use biometric scanners. These systems link your fingerprints and facial scan to your eVisa, making the entry process faster for subsequent visits.

What are the Top Airport for International Arrivals in DRC?

Most Barbadian travelers arrive via:

1. N'djili International Airport (Kinshasa): The busiest hub with connections via Paris, Brussels, or Addis Ababa.


2. Goma International Airport: Ideal for those heading directly to the national parks in the East.

Conclusion

A trip from the Caribbean to the heart of Africa is an adventure of a lifetime. By securing your DRC eVisa in advance and following the local health and safety regulations, Barbados citizens can ensure a smooth entry into one of the world's most fascinating countries. Safe travels!