Can I Extend My Ivory Coast Visa?

Yes. You can extend your Ivory Coast visa once you are in the country, depending on the type of Ivory Coast visa. Extending it requires a valid reason, compliance with immigration rules, and approval by the Ivorian authorities.

Here are the details and requirements to extend your visa in Côte d’Ivoire:

Eligibility for Extension

Valid Visa: You must have entered the country legally and hold a valid visa.

Reason for Extension: You need a valid reason for extending your stay, such as medical treatment, business opportunities, or family emergencies. Extensions for leisure tourism are rarely granted without exceptional justification.

Sufficient Funds: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your extended stay.

No Overstay: It's crucial to apply before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying, which can lead to fines and deportation.

How to Apply for an Ivory Coast Visa Extension

If the visa holder wants to stay in the Ivory Coast beyond the allowed stay period (typically 30 days per entry for an e-visa), they must apply for an extension at the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DST) or a designated immigration office in Abidjan.

Step By Step to Apply

Visit the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DST) in Plateau, Abidjan, responsible for visa extensions.

Fill out the visa extension request form (available at the office). Submit your application with all required documents.

Pay the applicable fees (cost varies by case).

Wait for approval: Processing may take a few days to a week, and you may be called for an interview. You will be notified if your extension is approved.

Required Documents

Passport (valid for at least six months)
Current visa copy (printed e-visa or stamped visa)
Letter explaining the reason for the extension (e.g., medical treatment, work, or travel disruption)
Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements)
Accommodation details (hotel booking or host invitation letter)
Passport-sized photos (2-4 if requested)
Proof of travel insurance (if required)

Note: Fees are paid at the immigration office, and the cost depends on the visa type and extension duration

Important Note

E-Visas for Transit: Transit e-Visas are issued for short-term stopovers (usually less than 3 days) and are non-extendable under all circumstances.

Overstay Consequences: Overstaying can result in fines and deportation.

Alternative Option: As a last resort, travelers may consider exiting to a nearby country and reapplying for a new visa, but this approach is not officially endorsed, and approval is at the discretion of immigration authorities.

For example, exiting to a visa-exempt ECOWAS country like Ghana and reapplying for a new e-visa may be an option.

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