Entry Requirements for Madagascar

Types of Visas for Madagascar

For most travelers, a visa is required to enter Madagascar. Depending on the purpose of travel and the length of stay, there are different visa options, each with specific requirements and fees.

Tourist Visas

Madagascar is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Tourists visiting the island can choose from several visa options.

Visa on Arrival

Travelers staying in Madagascar for up to 90 days can obtain a visa upon arrival at international airports such as Antananarivo-Ivato or Nosy Be.

Duration & Fees:

• 1–15 days: No visa fee, but an administrative charge of approximately €10.
• 15–30 days: Visa fee between €35–37.
• 30–60 days: Visa fee between €40–47.

Requirements:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
• Proof of a return or onward travel ticket.

Restrictions:

• The visa on arrival cannot be extended.
• It is only available at international airports and cannot be obtained in advance.

E-Visa (Electronic Visa)

Alternatively, travelers can apply for a visa online before departure via the official platform evisamada-mg.com.

Duration & Fees:

• Valid for 15, 30, 60, or 90 days.
• 15 days: Visa fee around €10.
• 30 days: Visa fee between €35–37.
• 60–90 days: Visa fee between €40–70.

Requirements:

• Applications must be submitted at least 72 hours before arrival.
• Once approved, the e-visa must be printed and presented upon entry.

Restrictions:

• The e-visa is valid for single entry only.
• An extension up to 90 days is possible but requires an application at the Malagasy immigration office.

For those planning a longer stay or seeking more flexibility, a long-term visa may be a better option. These visas must be obtained before traveling from a Malagasy embassy and allow for on-site extensions. To avoid complications, travelers should check the latest entry requirements well in advance and choose the visa that best suits their plans.

Required Documents for a Visa Application

Anyone traveling to Madagascar should familiarize themselves with the necessary documents for a visa application. The requirements depend on the type of visa, length of stay, and purpose of travel. In general, there is a distinction between visas on arrival (for stays up to 30 days) and visas obtained before departure (for stays longer than 30 days).

General Documents Required for a Visa Application

Regardless of the visa type, the following documents are required:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the entry date and have at least two blank pages.
• Visa Application Form: Must be completed accurately and in full.
• Biometric Passport Photo: A recent photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm) is required.
• Flight Ticket or Booking Confirmation: Proof of round-trip or onward travel.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment: Visa costs vary based on the length of stay.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Required for travelers who have been in a yellow fever risk area within six days before entering Madagascar.

Special Requirements for Minors and Long-Term Stays

• Minors: Must provide a notarized parental consent form in French and a copy of their birth certificate.
• Stays Over 90 Days: May require additional documents, such as a police clearance certificate or a medical certificate.

Since visa regulations can change on short notice, it is recommended to check with the Malagasy embassy or consulate for the latest requirements. A complete and accurate application helps prevent delays or rejections, ensuring smooth travel preparations.

The Visa Application Process for Madagascar

Applying for a visa to Madagascar depends on the length of stay, purpose of travel, and chosen application method. Travelers can opt for a visa on arrival, an e-visa (electronic visa), or an embassy visa. Planning ahead is crucial to avoid delays or complications.

Where to Apply for a Visa

The application process varies depending on the visa type:

Visa on Arrival

Tourists staying in Madagascar for up to 30 days can apply for a visa upon arrival at international airports such as Antananarivo or Nosy Be. To obtain the visa, travelers must present:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
• Proof of a return ticket and possibly a hotel booking.

Fees:

• Up to 15 days: €10 (administrative fee only).
• 15–30 days: €35.

However, there is no guarantee of approval, and wait times at the airport can vary.

E-Visa (Online Application)

Travelers who prefer to secure their visa in advance can apply for an e-visa through the official website evisamada.gov.mg.

Validity & Fees:

• Valid for 15, 30, or 60 days.
• Costs start at €35, depending on the length of stay.

Requirements:

• A digital passport photo and a scanned copy of the passport must be uploaded.
• Payment is made via credit card.
• The approved e-visa must be printed and presented upon arrival.

Embassy Visa

For stays exceeding 30 days, travelers must apply through the Malagasy embassy before departure.

Application Process:

• In Germany, applications are submitted by mail to the embassy in Falkensee.
• Required documents include:
• • A completed application form.
  • A copy of the passport.
  • Proof of travel purpose (e.g., invitation letter or employment contract).
  • Proof of visa fee payment.

Fees:

• Costs vary depending on the visa type.
• A “transformable” visa, which allows for an extension after arrival, costs around €70.

Processing Times

The visa processing time depends on the application method:

• Visa on Arrival: Issued immediately upon arrival, but subject to waiting times.
• E-Visa: Typically processed within 7–10 business days.
• Embassy Visa: Processing takes approximately 10 business days, but may vary depending on the volume of applications.

Applying in advance and ensuring all required documents are in order will help ensure a smooth entry into Madagascar without unnecessary delays.

Entry Requirements for Different Nationalities

Madagascar's entry requirements vary depending on nationality, length of stay, and purpose of travel. While all travelers require a visa, some country-specific exemptions and special regulations apply.

Visa on Arrival

Travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland can obtain a visa on arrival at Madagascar’s international airports. The following rules apply:

• German Citizens:
• • Visa on arrival for up to 30 days (€35).
  • For stays longer than 30 days, a “transformable” visa must be obtained in advance.
• Austrian Citizens:
• • Visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
  • Stays up to 15 days are visa-free, but a €10 administrative fee applies.
• Swiss Citizens:
• • Stays of 30 to 90 days are possible, depending on the chosen visa type.
  • Visa fees range from €30 to €67.
• EU Citizens (General):
• • Depending on the country, visas for stays between 15 and 90 days are available.
  • An e-visa can be obtained for stays of up to 60 days.

Since visa policies, fees, and entry regulations can change due to political decisions or currency fluctuations, travelers are advised to check with the Malagasy embassy or consulate before departure to ensure they have the latest information.

Visa Fees and Payment Options for Madagascar

The cost of a visa for Madagascar depends on the length of stay and the application method chosen. Travelers can either apply for an e-visa online before departure or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport.

Visa Fees by Length of Stay

Visa on Arrival

• Up to 15 days: No visa fee, but an administrative charge of €10 applies.
• 15 to 30 days: Visa fee is approximately €35.
• Available at international airports, including Antananarivo and Nosy Be.

E-Visa (Pre-Arrival Online Application)

• 30 days: €35
• 60 days: €48
• Processing time: Up to 72 hours

Long-Term Visa (“Transformable Visa”)

• For stays over 30 days, with the option for extensions within Madagascar.
• Cost: €70

Due to potential currency exchange fluctuations, it is advisable to check the latest visa fees before traveling.

Accepted Payment Methods

For Online Applications (E-Visa)

• Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard)
• PayPal as an alternative payment option

For Payment at the Airport (Visa on Arrival)

• Cash payments in Euros (EUR), US Dollars (USD), or Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
• Credit card payments may be possible at some airport counters, but reliability varies (Visa cards are preferred)

Important Payment Notes

• EC cards and traveler’s checks are NOT accepted.
• Change is usually given in Malagasy Ariary, so carrying small Euro bills (€5, €10, €20) is recommended.
• Travel agencies and visa service providers often require cash payments in Euros.
• Since card payments are not always guaranteed, travelers should carry sufficient cash to avoid delays.

By preparing accordingly, travelers can ensure a smooth visa payment process and avoid unnecessary complications upon arrival.

Essential Travel and Visa Documents for Madagascar

To ensure a smooth entry into Madagascar, travelers need more than just a valid visa. Being well-prepared helps avoid unexpected issues at border control and allows for a stress-free travel experience.

Required Travel Documents

• Passport:
• • Must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
  • Must contain at least two blank pages.
  • Temporary passports and child passports are accepted, but national ID cards are not.
• Visa:
• • Short stays (up to 30 days): A Visa on Arrival can be obtained at Madagascar’s international airports.
  • Long stays (over 30 days): A Transformable Visa must be applied for in advance at the Malagasy embassy (processing time: 7–20 days). Alternatively, an e-visa can be requested via evisamada-mg.com.
• Proof of onward or return travel:
• • A confirmed flight ticket must be presented upon entry to demonstrate the planned departure from Madagascar.

Additional Documents for a Hassle-Free Entry

• Parental Consent for Minors:
• • Unaccompanied minors must carry a notarized parental consent form in French.
  • A copy of the birth certificate and copies of the legal guardians' passports are also required.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate:
• • Mandatory for travelers arriving from yellow fever risk areas (e.g., mainland African countries).
• Proof of Financial Means:
• • While not officially required, it is advisable to carry a bank statement or proof of sufficient funds to cover travel expenses.
• Hotel Booking or Travel Itinerary:
• • May be requested during visa processing or border control to confirm the purpose of stay.

Recommended Documents for Emergencies

• Copies of Passport:
• • Keep separate from the original to speed up replacement in case of loss or theft.
• Travel Health Insurance:
• • National health insurance is not valid in Madagascar.
  • A policy with worldwide coverage, including medical evacuation, is strongly recommended.
• Trip Cancellation Insurance:
• • Helps minimize financial losses in case of unexpected trip interruptions.

Thorough preparation and carrying all necessary documents will help ensure a smooth entry process, so travelers can fully enjoy their Madagascar adventure without unnecessary delays or complications.

Crisis Preparedness List – Ensuring Safety During Your Trip to Madagascar

While Madagascar is generally considered a safe travel destination, unforeseen events such as natural disasters, political unrest, or health crises can occur. To receive rapid assistance in such situations, the German Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) recommends that German citizens register in the crisis preparedness list (ELEFAND). This free and voluntary service enables authorities to provide targeted information in emergencies and coordinate potential evacuations if necessary.

Benefits of Registering in the Crisis Preparedness List

• Rapid Crisis Communication
• • In case of an emergency, registered travelers receive real-time security updates, information on assembly points, and evacuation plans.
• Election Notifications
• • Long-term travelers can receive updates about Bundestag and European elections while abroad.
• Registration of Travel Companions
• • Non-German accompanying travelers can also be included in the registration.
• Health Information Storage
• • Travelers can store medical details or vaccination status for emergency situations.

How to Register

Travelers can register via the official website krisenvorsorgeliste.diplo.de or through the ELEFAND app. The process is simple and takes just a few minutes:

1. Initial Registration
2. • Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, passport number, and contact information.
3. Activation
4. • Receive a confirmation email with an activation code and unlock the profile.
5. Enter Travel Details
6. • Provide travel duration, emergency contact information in Germany, and local contact options.
7. Update Information
8. • For future trips to Madagascar or other destinations, the existing profile can be easily updated.

Important: Registered travel data is automatically deleted after the specified travel period. Since internet access may be limited during crises, it is highly recommended to complete the registration before departure.

Even for short trips, enrolling in the crisis preparedness list is a valuable precautionary measure. This allows travelers to focus on what truly matters—experiencing Madagascar’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture with peace of mind.

Baggage and Customs Regulations for Madagascar

Before traveling to Madagascar, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the country’s baggage and customs regulations to avoid any issues upon arrival or departure. The island nation has clear rules regarding the import of personal items, currency, and goods, as well as strict restrictions on the export of protected natural resources.

Import Regulations: What Can You Bring Into the Country?

Travelers are allowed to bring personal belongings and standard duty-free allowances, including:

• Tobacco & Alcohol:
• • Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars
  • Up to 2 liters of alcohol
• Foreign Currency:
• • Amounts exceeding €7,500 must be declared upon arrival.
  • There is no limit on the import of foreign currencies.
• Electronic Devices:
• • High-value items such as professional cameras and expensive laptops must be declared at customs.
• Medications:
• • Prescription medications for personal use are permitted but must be accompanied by an English-language medical certificate.

Prohibited Items

Certain items are strictly forbidden and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment:

• Weapons, ammunition, and drugs (including cannabis).
• Any form of pornographic material.
• Camouflage clothing or military equipment.
• Animals or plants without the proper CITES permit.

Customs Inspections & Special Regulations

Madagascan authorities conduct random customs checks upon entry and exit, particularly for protected species and high-value goods. Travelers should also be aware of special regulations:

• Photography Restrictions:
• • Military installations, airports, and bridges may not be photographed.
• Traditional “Fady” Rules:
• • In some regions, religious or cultural taboos must be respected.
• Digital Customs Tariff:
• • Since 2025, travelers can check updated duty rates and regulations via the eTariff online portal.

Failing to comply with Madagascar’s baggage and customs laws can result in substantial fines, and in severe cases, imprisonment. To avoid complications, travelers are advised to check the latest regulations with the Malagasy embassy or customs office before departure.