US citizens need a visa to enter Mauritania. Since January 2025, Mauritania requires all foreign nationals, including Americans, to obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) before traveling. Visa on arrival is no longer available. The good news is that the online application through the ANRPTS portal is straightforward and can be completed from home.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Mauritania?
Yes. A visa is mandatory for all US passport holders visiting Mauritania, whether for tourism, business, or transit. There are no visa-free arrangements between the United States and Mauritania.
As of June 2025, Mauritanian embassies and consulates no longer issue traditional visa stamps. Instead, they direct all applicants to the e-Visa system operated by the ANRPTS (Agence Nationale du Registre de la Population et des Titres Securises).
Mauritania e-Visa Types for US Citizens
US citizens can apply for several e-Visa categories depending on the purpose and length of their stay:
| Visa Type | Duration | Entry Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-stay tourist | 30 days | Single entry | Tourism, sightseeing |
| Standard tourist | 90 days | Single or multiple entry | Tourism, family visits |
| Long-stay tourist | 360 days | Multiple entry | Extended tourism |
| Business | 90 days | Single or multiple entry | Meetings, conferences |
| Long-term business | 360 days | Multiple entry | Ongoing business activities |
| Extended stay | 720 days | Multiple entry | Long-term residence |
For most American tourists, the 30-day or 90-day single-entry visa is sufficient. If you plan multiple trips within a year, the 360-day multiple-entry option offers better value.
How to Apply for a Mauritania e-Visa from the US
The application is fully online through the official ANRPTS portal. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1. Visit the official portal at anrpts.gov.mr
Step 2. Create an account with your email address
Step 3. Select your visa type (tourist or business) and duration
Step 4. Fill in personal details exactly as they appear on your passport
Step 5. Upload the required documents (see checklist below)
Step 6. Pay the visa fee online by credit or debit card
Step 7. Submit the application and wait for processing
Step 8. Download and print your approved e-Visa
For a detailed walkthrough with screenshots, see our complete guide on how to apply for a Mauritania e-Visa.
Required Documents for US Citizens
Before starting your application, gather these documents:
- Valid US passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your entry date and at least one blank visa page
- Recent passport-size digital photograph (taken within the last 6 months)
- International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination
- Confirmed hotel reservation or accommodation booking in Mauritania
- Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking
- For business visas: a letter from your US employer and an invitation from the Mauritanian company
The passport scan and photo must be clear, high-resolution digital files. Blurry or cropped images are the most common reason for application delays.
Mauritania Visa Fee for US Citizens
The e-Visa fee depends on the visa type and duration you select:
| Visa Type | Government Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| 30-day single entry | $60 – $100 |
| 90-day single entry | $100 – $150 |
| 90-day multiple entry | $150 – $200 |
| 360-day multiple entry | $200 – $300 |
| 720-day multiple entry | $300+ |
Fees are paid online during the application process. The ANRPTS portal accepts major credit and debit cards. Note that fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied.
For a full breakdown of costs, see our Mauritania visa fee guide.
Mauritania e-Visa Processing Time
Most e-Visa applications from US citizens are processed within 3 to 7 business days. However, processing can take up to 14 days during peak travel seasons or if additional documentation is requested.
Tips to avoid delays:
- Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your departure date
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and legible
- Double-check that passport details match your application exactly
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
You can check the status of your application through the ANRPTS portal. For more details, read our Mauritania visa processing time guide.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement
US citizens traveling to Mauritania must present a valid International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination. This is a non-negotiable entry requirement enforced at all ports of entry.
- Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel
- The certificate is valid for life (WHO updated this in 2016)
- Without it, you may be denied boarding or entry
- The vaccine is available at authorized US travel clinics
Keep the yellow card with your passport at all times during travel.
Is Mauritania Safe for American Tourists?
The US State Department rates Mauritania as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Key safety considerations include:
- Avoid travel to border regions with Mali and Burkina Faso
- Stay alert in Nouakchott, especially after dark
- Use registered taxis or hotel-arranged transportation
- Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying wealth
- Register with the US Embassy in Nouakchott upon arrival
The Australian government advises “Reconsider your need to travel” due to terrorism threats and kidnapping risks in border areas. Most visits to Nouakchott and major tourist areas are uneventful when basic precautions are followed.
For a comprehensive safety assessment, see our Is Mauritania safe? guide.
US Embassy in Mauritania
The US Embassy in Nouakchott provides consular services for American citizens:
- Address: 288 Rue Abdallaye, Nouakchott, Mauritania
- Phone: +222 4525-2660
- Website: mr.usembassy.gov
- Emergency after-hours: +222 4525-2660
Register your trip through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before departure. This allows the Embassy to contact you in case of emergency.
FAQs About Mauritania Visa for US Citizens
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival in Mauritania?
No. As of January 2025, Mauritania eliminated the visa on arrival option for all nationalities. US citizens must apply for an e-Visa online through the ANRPTS portal before traveling.
How long can US citizens stay in Mauritania?
The maximum stay depends on your visa type: 30 days for short-stay tourist visas, 90 days for standard tourist visas, and up to 360 or 720 days for long-term visas. Overstaying your visa results in fines and potential detention.
How much does a Mauritania visa cost for US citizens?
Government fees range from $60 for a 30-day single-entry visa to over $300 for a 720-day multiple-entry visa. Fees are paid online during the e-Visa application process and are non-refundable.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccine for Mauritania?
Yes. A valid International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Mauritania. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before your trip.
What is the official Mauritania e-Visa website?
The official portal is anrpts.gov.mr, operated by ANRPTS (Agence Nationale du Registre de la Population et des Titres Securises). Avoid unofficial websites that charge extra service fees.
Can I extend my Mauritania visa while in the country?
Visa extensions may be possible through the immigration office in Nouakchott. Apply before your current visa expires. Overstaying without an extension results in fines and may affect future visa applications.
How long is a Mauritania e-Visa valid?
The e-Visa is valid for the duration specified at the time of application: 30, 90, 360, or 720 days from the date of entry. The validity period begins on your entry date, not the approval date.
Can US citizens apply for a Mauritania business visa online?
Yes. Business e-Visas are available through the same ANRPTS portal. You will need a business letter from your US employer and an invitation letter from the Mauritanian company you will be visiting.
