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Traveling from the lush, rolling hills of Burundi to the vast, resource-rich landscapes of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is an adventure that connects two neighbors with deep historical ties. Whether you are heading to Kinshasa for a high-stakes business meeting, visiting family in the eastern provinces, or exploring the breathtaking biodiversity of the Congo Basin, understanding the entry requirements is vital.

In recent years, the DRC has modernized its immigration infrastructure, introducing the DRC eVisa for Burundi citizens. This digital system eliminates the need for long queues at embassies and allows travelers to secure their entry permits from the comfort of their homes. 

Do Burundi Citizens Need a Visa for the DRC?

Yes. Despite both nations being members of the East African Community (EAC), the DRC requires Burundian ordinary passport holders to obtain a visa prior to arrival. Unlike some EAC partners that offer visa-free entry, the DRC maintains a formal visa protocol to manage its borders. The Ordinary Flying eVisa is the standard requirement for those arriving by air.

What exactly is the DRC Ordinary Flying eVisa?

The Ordinary Flying eVisa is a digital authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter the DRC for non-immigrant purposes. This includes:

• Tourism: Exploring national parks or cultural sites.



• Family Visits: Spending time with relatives residing in the DRC.



• Business: Attending conferences, signing contracts, or scouting investments.

It is important to note that this "Flying eVisa" is specifically tailored for entry via major international airports, such as N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa or Goma International Airport.

How to Apply for a DRC eVisa from Burundi ?

The application process is designed to be user-friendly:

1. Fill the Form: Enter your personal details, passport info, and travel dates.



2. Upload Documents: Attach digital copies of your passport and photo.



3. Pay Fees: Use a credit/debit card to pay the processing fee.



4. Receive via Email: Once approved, the eVisa is sent to your inbox. Print this out to present at the border.

What are the DRC eVisa Document Requirements for  Burundi Citizens?

To avoid delays, ensure your documents meet these specific criteria:

• Passport Copy: A high-resolution scan of the bio-data page. It must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry.



• Passport Photo: A digital, passport-style color photo.



• Motivation Letter: This is a formal letter addressed to the "Direction Générale de Migration" (DGM) of the DRC. It must clearly state the reason for your visit, the duration of your stay, and your physical address in the DRC (hotel name or relative’s home).

What is the Processing Time for a DRC eVisa?

Processing times vary based on urgency. It is highly recommended to apply at least two weeks before your flight.

• Normal Processing: Takes between 11 – 13 Working Days. Best for those who plan their trips well in advance.



• Rush Processing: Takes between 8 – 11 Working Days. A middle-ground option for unexpected business trips.



• Super Rush Processing: Takes between 5 – 8 Working Days. The fastest available option for urgent travel.

How Long is the Stay With a DRC eVisa?

The validity of a DRC eVisa typically ranges from 30 to 90 days. It is generally issued as a Single Entry visa. This means once you leave the DRC, the visa becomes invalid, and you would need to apply for a new one to re-enter. Always check the "Expiry Date" on your issued PDF to ensure you do not overstay, as fines for overstaying are strictly enforced.

Can I Apply for a Group of eVisa for Family Travel?

Yes. The DRC eVisa system allows for group submissions. This is particularly helpful for Burundian families or small business delegations traveling together. While each person receives their own individual visa, applying as a group ensures that the motivation letters and itineraries are cross-referenced, which can sometimes simplify the verification process for the immigration officer.

How Can I Track My DRC eVisa Status?

Transparency is a key feature of the eVisa system. Once you pay for your application, you are assigned a Tracking ID.

• Navigate to the "Check Status" page on the official website.



• Enter your Passport Number and Tracking ID.



• The system will display whether your application is "In Review," "Approved," or "Requires More Information."

What are the most Common Reasons DRC e-Visa Rejection?

Understanding why visas are denied can help you get it right the first time. Common reasons include:

• Incomplete Motivation Letters: If you don't provide a specific address of where you are staying, the application may be flagged.



• Blurry Scans: If the immigration officer cannot read your passport number or see your face clearly, they will reject the file.



• Mismatched Data: Using a nickname or a shortened version of your name that doesn't match your passport.



• Expired Passport: Applying with a passport that has less than 6 months of validity remaining.

Is a Transit Visa Required for the DRC?

If you are landing in the DRC only to catch a connecting flight to another country (such as Ethiopia or South Africa) and you do not plan to leave the airport terminal, you generally do not need a visa. However, if your layover is long and you wish to stay in a hotel outside the airport, you must apply for a Transit Visa, which is usually valid for a maximum of 3 days.

What is Internet Availability Like in the DRC?

Connectivity in the DRC has improved significantly. In urban centers, 4G speeds are common.

• Mobile data (4G) is available through providers like Vodacom, Airtel, and Orange. It is affordable and reliable in major cities but drops off in rural areas.



• Wi-Fi, Most major hotels offer Wi-Fi, though the speed can be inconsistent. If you are traveling to remote rainforest areas, do not expect a signal.

What are the Taxi and Transport systems in the DRC?

Navigating Congolese cities requires some planning:

• Public Transport: Minibuses exist but can be overcrowded and difficult to navigate for first-time visitors.



• Apps: Ride-hailing services are beginning to emerge in Kinshasa, providing a more transparent pricing model.



• Private Taxis: It is safest to use "Taxi-Privé" or vehicles arranged by your hotel.



• Yellow Taxis: These are shared taxis and are much cheaper, but they can be confusing for visitors and are often very crowded.



• River Transport: If you are traveling between Kinshasa and Brazzaville, the ferry across the Congo River is the standard mode of transport.

What are the Essential Country Rules in DRC?

• Photography: This is the most important rule. Do not take photos of bridges, military personnel, police, or government buildings. This can lead to your camera being confiscated or even arrested.



• Language: French is the official language. Learning basic phrases in French, or local languages like Lingala or Swahili, will go a long way in building rapport with locals.



• Respect: Dress modestly in professional or religious settings and avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public.



• Security: Always carry a color photocopy of your passport and eVisa while moving around.

Final Thoughts

The DRC offers a world of opportunity and beauty for those willing to navigate its entry requirements. By following this guide and choosing the appropriate processing time, Burundian citizens can ensure their travel plans remain on track.