Comoros Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

The Union of the Comoros, an archipelago nation located in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique, offers a relatively accessible entry process for international travelers. Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni or at other ports of entry, making travel to this island nation straightforward for tourism and short business visits. The immigration process in Comoros is generally efficient, though facilities may be basic compared to larger international airports. Travelers should be prepared with all necessary documentation, including a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and return or onward tickets. The official currency is the Comorian Franc (KMF), and while French and Arabic are official languages, French is widely used in official settings including immigration. Before traveling to Comoros, visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and that they have proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from an at-risk country. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash in euros or US dollars, as ATM availability is limited and credit cards are not widely accepted. Always verify current entry requirements with official Comorian authorities or your nearest Comorian embassy, as regulations can change.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Comoros operates a visa-on-arrival system for most nationalities, making it one of the more accessible destinations in the region. Very few travelers need to obtain a visa in advance, though all visitors must meet basic entry requirements including valid travel documents and proof of sufficient funds.

Visa on Arrival

Typically 45 days for tourist visits

The vast majority of nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Comorian ports of entry

Includes

United States United Kingdom European Union member states Canada Australia New Zealand South Africa Japan South Korea China India Brazil Argentina Mexico Most African nations Most Asian nations Most Middle Eastern nations

How to Apply: No advance application needed. Visa issued at immigration upon arrival after payment of fee and presentation of required documents.
Cost: Approximately 30-50 EUR or equivalent in USD (fees may vary by nationality and stay duration)

Payment is typically accepted in euros, US dollars, or Comorian francs. Credit cards are generally not accepted for visa fees. Ensure you have exact change or small bills. A passport valid for at least 6 months and proof of return/onward travel are required.

Visa-Free Entry

Varies by agreement

Very limited visa-free access, primarily for diplomatic passport holders

Includes

Some diplomatic and official passport holders from countries with bilateral agreements

Standard passport holders from nearly all countries require a visa on arrival. Check with Comorian authorities if you hold a diplomatic or service passport.

Advance Visa Required

Typically up to 45 days, extendable

Some nationalities may need to obtain a visa before travel

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Comorian embassy or consulate. If no Comorian diplomatic mission is available in your country, contact the Comorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or apply through a French embassy that provides consular services for Comoros.

This applies to a very small number of nationalities. Most travelers can use visa on arrival. Israeli passport holders and some other nationalities should verify requirements in advance. Processing times vary but can take 2-4 weeks.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni or other ports of entry in Comoros, travelers proceed through immigration and customs. The process is generally straightforward but can be slow during peak arrival times. Having all documents prepared and accessible will facilitate a smoother entry.

Disembarkation

Exit the aircraft and proceed to the terminal building. Follow signs to immigration (contrôle des passeports).

Visa Payment

Before reaching immigration counters, you may need to pay the visa fee at a designated payment window. Keep your receipt as you'll need to present it to the immigration officer.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed arrival card (usually distributed on the flight), visa payment receipt, return ticket, and proof of accommodation to the immigration officer. They will review your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with the entry visa.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the baggage carousel. The airport is small, so this is usually straightforward.

Customs Declaration

Proceed through customs control. If you have items to declare, use the red channel; otherwise, proceed through the green channel. Officers may inspect luggage randomly.

Exit

Exit the arrivals hall where you can arrange transportation to your accommodation. Official taxis and pre-arranged transfers are available.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

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

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Comoros, either a return ticket to your home country or onward travel to another destination. Can be electronic or printed.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying. Immigration may ask for this information.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days prior to arrival. Must be the official International Certificate of Vaccination.

Sufficient Funds

Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay, though rarely checked. Can include cash, traveler's checks, or bank statements.

Visa Fee Payment

Cash in euros or US dollars to pay for visa on arrival. Typically 30-50 EUR depending on nationality and duration.

Arrival Card

Completed immigration/customs arrival card, usually distributed on the flight or available at the airport.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Bring exact change in euros or US dollars for the visa fee. Small denominations (10, 20 euro notes) are preferable as change may not always be available.

Complete your arrival card during the flight to save time at immigration. Use block capitals and ensure all information matches your passport exactly.

Have printed copies of your hotel reservation and return ticket readily accessible. Don't rely solely on electronic versions as internet connectivity may be limited.

Be patient as processing can be slow, especially if multiple flights arrive simultaneously. The airport has limited immigration counters.

Keep your passport and visa receipt secure and accessible throughout your stay as you may need to present them at hotels or when traveling between islands.

Exchange some currency at the airport if arriving outside banking hours, though rates may not be favorable. Bring euros or dollars as these are widely accepted.

Take a photo of your passport information page and visa stamp as a backup in case of loss or theft during your stay.

Customs & Duty-Free

Comoros customs regulations are relatively standard for the region. Travelers should be aware of duty-free allowances and prohibited items. The customs process is generally straightforward, though officers reserve the right to inspect luggage. Declare all items that exceed duty-free limits or that may require special permission.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol should be for personal consumption only. Comoros is a Muslim-majority country, so discretion is advised.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts over 500,000 KMF (approximately 1,000 EUR/USD) should be declared

Declaration required for large amounts. Keep declaration form if you plan to re-export the same currency. There are no restrictions on bringing in foreign currency, but local currency export is limited.

Gifts/Goods

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

Commercial quantities of goods are subject to duty. New items in packaging may be questioned. Keep receipts for expensive items.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use (typically up to 250ml)

Excessive quantities may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Severe penalties including lengthy imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition - Unless prior authorization obtained from Comorian authorities
Pornographic materials - Comoros has strict laws regarding such materials
Counterfeit goods - Including fake designer items and pirated media
Certain plants and plant products - Phytosanitary restrictions apply
Endangered species products - Including ivory, certain shells, and protected animal products
Explosives and flammable materials - Unless properly licensed
Items depicting or insulting Islam - As Comoros is an Islamic nation

Restricted Items

Medications - Bring prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Controlled substances require special permission.
Drones and radio equipment - May require permission from telecommunications authority. Declare at customs.
Professional camera/video equipment - May require temporary import permit if for commercial purposes.
Live animals and animal products - Require veterinary health certificates and import permits.
Fresh food products - May be restricted; check with customs authorities before bringing fresh fruits, vegetables, or meats.
Archaeological artifacts - Export of cultural items is strictly controlled and generally prohibited.

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entering Comoros focus primarily on preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Travelers should ensure they meet vaccination requirements and take appropriate health precautions before and during their visit.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or having transited through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. An International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented at immigration.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers as food and water safety may be compromised
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have contact with blood or body fluids
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller islands or rural areas
Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date with MMR, DTP, and polio vaccines
Malaria prophylaxis - While not a vaccination, antimalarial medication is strongly recommended as malaria is endemic in Comoros
Rabies - Consider for travelers who may have contact with animals or will be in remote areas
COVID-19 - Vaccination recommended; check current entry requirements

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Comoros are limited, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Reunion, Mauritius, or Kenya. Ensure your insurance covers emergency medical evacuation, which can be extremely expensive. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers readily accessible.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements may still be in effect or may change. Check the latest requirements regarding vaccination certificates, testing, and quarantine before travel. Visit the website of the Comorian Ministry of Health or consult your airline for the most current health entry requirements. Some countries may have additional exit requirements when returning from Comoros.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Comoros or the nearest accredited mission

Many countries do not have embassies in Comoros. The nearest embassy may be in Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, or Mauritius. Register with your embassy before travel and check your government's travel advisory website for Comoros-specific information.

Immigration Authority

Direction Générale de la Police Nationale - Immigration Services, Moroni

For visa extensions, immigration questions, or official information. Limited online presence; in-person visits or contact through your hotel may be necessary. French is the primary working language.

Emergency Services

Police: 17, Fire: 18, Medical emergencies: Contact your hotel or nearest medical facility

Emergency response capabilities are limited. For serious medical emergencies, contact your embassy immediately for evacuation assistance. Most hotels can help coordinate emergency services.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ministère des Affaires Étrangères, Moroni

For official visa inquiries, diplomatic matters, or complex entry requirement questions. Can provide information on visa extensions and special permits.

Airport Information

Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH), Moroni

Main international gateway to Comoros. Limited facilities and services. Confirm flight schedules as they can change.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (no entries in parent's passport accepted). Minors traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s), including contact information and authorizing the child to travel. This should be in French or English. If a child is traveling with one parent, a consent letter from the other parent is advisable. In cases of sole custody, carry legal documentation. Birth certificates may also be requested. Ensure children meet the same visa and health requirements as adults, including yellow fever vaccination if applicable.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to Comoros requires advance planning. You'll need: (1) An import permit from the Comorian Ministry of Agriculture, applied for well in advance; (2) A veterinary health certificate issued by an official veterinarian in your country within 10 days of travel; (3) Current rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel); (4) Proof of other vaccinations as required; (5) Some airlines may not accept pets on flights to Comoros - confirm with your carrier. Quarantine requirements may apply. Contact the Comorian embassy or Ministry of Agriculture for current requirements, as these can be complex and change. Consider that veterinary services in Comoros are very limited.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas on arrival are typically valid for 45 days. For longer stays, you must apply for an extension at the Direction Générale de la Police Nationale in Moroni before your initial visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. You'll need to provide: justification for the extension, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and pay an extension fee. Extensions are typically granted for 30-45 days at a time. For stays longer than 90 days or for work/residence purposes, you'll need to apply for a long-stay visa or residence permit through the Ministry of Interior. This requires additional documentation including police clearance, medical certificate, and proof of purpose (employment contract, business registration, etc.). Start the process early as it can take several weeks or months.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can generally enter on a tourist visa on arrival for short business trips (meetings, conferences, negotiations). For conducting business activities, you should carry: an invitation letter from the Comorian company or organization you're visiting, company registration documents, and proof of business purpose. For longer-term business activities or employment, a business visa or work permit is required, which must be arranged in advance through the sponsoring Comorian entity. This involves approval from the Ministry of Labor and Ministry of Interior. Business visas require additional documentation and fees.

Journalists and Media

Journalists and media professionals should obtain advance permission from the Comorian Ministry of Communication before traveling to work in Comoros. Arriving on a tourist visa and then conducting journalism activities is not permitted and can result in detention or deportation. Apply for a media/journalist visa through a Comorian embassy, providing: letter from your media organization, detailed itinerary of planned activities, and purpose of coverage. Professional camera equipment should be declared at customs. Filming in certain areas may require additional permits.

Dual Nationals

Travelers holding dual nationality should use the same passport for entry and exit. If you hold Comorian citizenship (including through descent), you may be required to enter on your Comorian passport. Dual nationals should check with Comorian authorities about their obligations, as some countries' passports may not be recognized for entry if you're also a Comorian national. This is particularly relevant for those of Comorian descent.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Comoros without leaving the airport generally do not need a visa if their onward flight is within 24 hours and they remain in the international transit area. However, Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport has limited transit facilities, and you may need to enter Comoros to connect to another flight, in which case a visa on arrival is required. Confirm with your airline whether you'll need to collect and recheck baggage, as this would require passing through immigration.