Mauritania launched its mandatory electronic visa (eVisa) system on January 5, 2025, replacing all embassy-issued sticker visas and on-arrival permits. Every traveler who needs a visa must now apply online through the official ANRPTS portal before boarding their flight. This guide covers eligibility, fees, step-by-step application instructions, required documents, processing times, and everything else you need to enter Mauritania smoothly.
What Is the Mauritania eVisa?
The Mauritania eVisa is a fully digital travel authorization managed by the Agence Nationale du Registre des Populations et des Titres Sécurisés (ANRPTS) — the National Agency for the Population Register and Secure Titles. Since January 5, 2025, all visa-required nationals must obtain an eVisa through the official portal at anrpts.gov.mr before boarding any flight bound for Mauritania.
The system eliminates the previous options of applying at Mauritanian embassies or obtaining a visa on arrival at Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport. As of June 2025, Mauritanian embassies worldwide no longer issue traditional sticker visas and instead direct all applicants to the online platform.
The eVisa document, which contains a QR code for verification, must be printed and presented to immigration officials upon arrival. Biometric data is captured at the port of entry to finalize the visa issuance.
Who Needs an eVisa for Mauritania?
Citizens of most countries worldwide need an eVisa to enter Mauritania. This includes travelers from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, all EU/Schengen member states, India, China, Japan, and many others.
Citizens of the following 10 countries are exempt from visa requirements and can visit Mauritania without a visa for stays of up to 90 days:
- Algeria
- Burkina Faso
- Chad
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Gambia
- Guinea-Bissau
- Libya
- Mali
- Niger
- Senegal
- Tunisia
If your nationality is not listed above, you must apply for an eVisa before traveling to Mauritania. There is no visa-on-arrival option.
Mauritania eVisa Types and Duration
The Mauritania eVisa system offers three duration options to suit different travel needs:
Applicants can also choose the number of entries:
- Single entry — enter Mauritania once during the visa validity period
- Double entry — enter Mauritania twice (useful for side trips to Senegal or Mali)
- Multiple entries — enter and exit Mauritania as many times as needed during the validity period
How to Apply for a Mauritania eVisa: Step-by-Step
The application process is completed entirely online through the official ANRPTS portal. Here is a detailed walkthrough:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Navigate to anrpts.gov.mr/visa/requestvisa. The site is primarily in French, but most browsers offer automatic translation. Look for the “Demander un visa” (Request a visa) button to begin your application.
Step 2: Create an Account
You will need to register with a valid email address and phone number. After registration, check your email for a verification link. Use a reliable email address — all communications, including your eVisa approval, will be sent there.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
The online form requires the following information:
- Personal details: full name (as it appears on your passport), date and place of birth
- Contact information: email address, phone number
- Purpose of stay: tourism, business, family visit, medical, cultural/sports, or other
- Travel details: planned date of arrival in Mauritania
- Visa preferences: desired duration (30, 60, or 90 days) and number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
- Passport details: passport number, passport type, issue date, expiration date, issuing country
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You must upload two documents:
- Passport-style photograph — a recent digital photo taken within the last 6 months, meeting standard passport photo requirements (clear face, white or light background, no head coverings unless for religious reasons)
- Passport bio-data page scan — a clear, high-resolution scan or photo of the information page of your valid, signed passport. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned date of arrival in Mauritania
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email. The ANRPTS processes applications and sends the approved eVisa to your registered email address. The eVisa document includes a QR code that immigration officials will scan upon your arrival.
Step 6: Print Your eVisa
Print a physical copy of your eVisa approval. You will need to present this document at the airport before boarding your flight and again at immigration upon arrival in Mauritania. A digital copy on your phone is not sufficient — a printed paper copy is required.
Mauritania eVisa Fees and Payment
One important detail that surprises many travelers: eVisa fees are not paid online during the application process. Instead, you pay the visa fee upon arrival in Mauritania at the immigration counter.
Key payment details:
- Accepted currencies: Euros (EUR) or US Dollars (USD) only
- Payment method: Exact cash only — change is not provided and receipts are not issued
- 30-day visa fee: €55 or $60
- Bring the exact amount to avoid complications at the immigration counter
This payment-at-arrival model means you do not need a credit card for the visa application itself, but you must carry sufficient cash in EUR or USD when you travel.
Processing Time: How Long Does the Mauritania eVisa Take?
Processing times for the Mauritania eVisa are not officially standardized. Based on traveler reports:
- Standard processing: typically 3–7 business days
- Peak season delays: can extend to 10–14 business days during high travel periods
- Recommended lead time: apply at least 2–3 weeks before your planned departure date
The UK Foreign Office advises travelers to “apply for an e-visa well in advance of your anticipated travel date to ensure that it is issued on time by the Mauritanian authorities.” There is no expedited processing option available.
If you experience technical difficulties with your application, you can contact ANRPTS directly by email at [email protected].
Required Documents Checklist
Before starting your application, gather the following:
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Mauritania?
Yes. United States citizens are required to obtain an eVisa before traveling to Mauritania. There is no visa-free arrangement between the US and Mauritania, and the previous visa-on-arrival option has been discontinued since January 2025.
The US State Department advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Mauritania due to crime and terrorism risks. Parts of the country carry “Do Not Travel” advisories. Ensure you check the latest travel advisories at travel.state.gov before planning your trip.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement
Travelers arriving from a country with a yellow fever transmission risk must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry to Mauritania. This requirement applies regardless of whether you are transiting through the risk country.
Countries with yellow fever risk include many nations in Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America. If your itinerary includes a layover or stop in any of these regions, ensure you are vaccinated and carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card).
Recommended vaccinations for Mauritania (not mandatory but advised by health authorities) include:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Meningococcal meningitis
- Rabies (for extended stays or rural travel)
- Malaria prophylaxis (Mauritania is a malaria-endemic zone)
Mauritania eVisa vs. the Old System: What Changed?
The transition to the eVisa system represented a major modernization of Mauritania’s border management. Here is how the new system compares to the old approach:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Based on traveler reports and official guidance, here are the most frequent errors that cause problems:
- Not printing the eVisa. A digital copy on your phone is not accepted. Airlines may deny boarding without a printed eVisa, and immigration at Nouakchott requires a paper copy.
- Passport expiring within 6 months. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival. Check this before applying — the application will be rejected if the passport validity is insufficient.
- Bringing the wrong currency. Only EUR and USD are accepted for visa fee payment. Other currencies, credit cards, and debit cards are not accepted at the immigration counter.
- Not bringing exact change. Immigration officers do not provide change or receipts. Bring the exact visa fee amount.
- Applying too late. Processing can take up to two weeks during peak periods. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before departure.
- Expecting a visa on arrival. This option no longer exists. You will be denied boarding by the airline if you do not have an approved eVisa.
Entry Points and Arrival Procedures
The primary international entry point for Mauritania is Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC), located approximately 25 km north of the capital city Nouakchott. Land border crossings with Senegal (Rosso, Diama) and Mali are also used by travelers, though the eVisa system is primarily designed for air arrivals.
Upon arrival at the airport, the immigration process follows these steps:
- Present your printed eVisa and passport at the immigration counter
- Pay the visa fee in exact EUR or USD cash
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph)
- Receive your entry stamp and proceed through customs
Purpose of Visit Options
When applying for the Mauritania eVisa, you must select the purpose of your visit. The available categories are:
- Tourism — sightseeing, cultural exploration, desert tours, the famous Iron Ore Train experience
- Business — meetings, conferences, professional activities
- Family visit — visiting relatives or friends residing in Mauritania
- Medical — seeking medical treatment in Mauritania
- Cultural/Sports — participating in cultural events, sports competitions, or academic activities
- Other — any purpose not covered by the above categories
For most travelers, tourism or business will be the appropriate selection. The purpose you select may affect the supporting documents requested, so choose accurately.
Technical Difficulties and Support
The ANRPTS portal is a government website that occasionally experiences downtime or slow performance. If you encounter technical issues during the application process:
- Email support: [email protected]
- Try a different browser — Chrome and Firefox tend to work best with the portal
- Disable VPN — some VPN connections may interfere with the application submission
- Try during off-peak hours — early morning (GMT) tends to be less congested
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Mauritania visa online?
Yes. Since January 5, 2025, the only way to obtain a Mauritania visa is online through the official ANRPTS portal at anrpts.gov.mr. Embassy and on-arrival visa issuance have been discontinued.
How long does the Mauritania eVisa take?
Processing typically takes 3–7 business days, but can extend to 10–14 days during peak travel seasons. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your departure date.
How much does the Mauritania eVisa cost?
The 30-day eVisa costs €55 or $60, payable in exact cash (EUR or USD) upon arrival in Mauritania. Longer-duration visas (60 and 90 days) cost more. No payment is required during the online application.
Is there a visa on arrival for Mauritania?
No. Visa on arrival was discontinued on January 5, 2025. All visa-required travelers must obtain an eVisa before boarding their flight. Airlines will deny boarding to passengers without an approved eVisa.
Do I need to print my Mauritania eVisa?
Yes. A physical, printed copy of your eVisa (showing the QR code) is required. Digital copies on phones or tablets are not accepted by airlines or Mauritanian immigration officials.
What if my eVisa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, you will receive a notification via email. Common reasons for rejection include passport validity issues, incomplete documentation, or errors in the application form. You may reapply after correcting the issue. Contact [email protected] for specific guidance on your case.
Can I extend my Mauritania eVisa?
Visa extensions may be possible through the immigration authorities in Nouakchott, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis. It is recommended to apply for the appropriate duration from the start. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, or future entry bans.
Which vaccinations do I need for Mauritania?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk. Additional recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and meningococcal meningitis. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised as Mauritania is a malaria-endemic zone.
Essential Travel Tips for Mauritania
- Currency: The Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU) is the local currency. ATMs are limited outside Nouakchott — carry sufficient EUR or USD cash for your trip.
- Language: Arabic (Hassaniya dialect) is the official language. French is widely used in business and government. English is rarely spoken outside tourist operations.
- Climate: Mauritania has a hot desert climate. Temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F) in summer. The best time to visit is November through February when temperatures are milder.
- Safety: Check current travel advisories before traveling. Parts of Mauritania carry security risks. Stick to well-traveled routes and consider hiring a local guide for desert excursions.
- Connectivity: Mobile data coverage is available in major cities but limited in the desert. Consider purchasing a local SIM card from Mattel or Mauritel upon arrival.
Summary: Key Takeaways
- Apply for your eVisa at anrpts.gov.mr at least 2–3 weeks before departure
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date
- 30-day visa fee: €55 / $60, paid in exact cash on arrival
- Print your eVisa — digital copies are not accepted
- No visa on arrival — eVisa is mandatory before boarding your flight
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required if coming from a risk country
- Contact ANRPTS at [email protected] for technical support
This guide is updated regularly to reflect the latest changes to Mauritania’s visa policies. Last updated: July 2026.
