Mauritania no longer offers visa on arrival as of January 5, 2025. All travelers who need a visa must now apply for an e-Visa online through the ANRPTS portal before flying. This guide explains what changed, who still qualifies for visa-free entry, and how to get your e-Visa instead.
What Was the Mauritania Visa on Arrival?
Until early 2025, travelers arriving at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC) could purchase a visa on arrival at the immigration counter. The process was straightforward: fill out a form, pay the fee in cash, and receive a stamp in your passport.
This option was popular with tourists and business travelers who needed flexibility or made last-minute plans to visit Mauritania.
Why Was the Visa on Arrival Discontinued?
On January 5, 2025, Mauritania officially launched its electronic visa (e-Visa) system and eliminated the visa on arrival for all nationalities. The change was driven by:
- Modernization of border control – The ANRPTS (Agence Nationale du Registre des Populations et des Titres Securises) took over visa processing to improve security and efficiency.
- Pre-screening travelers – By requiring applications before arrival, Mauritanian authorities can vet travelers in advance.
- Standardization – The e-Visa system replaced both the visa on arrival and embassy-issued visas. As of June 2025, Mauritanian embassies worldwide no longer issue visas and direct applicants to the online portal.
Who Does NOT Need a Visa for Mauritania?
Citizens of 10 countries can visit Mauritania without any visa for stays up to 90 days. If you hold a passport from one of these nations, you do not need an e-Visa or visa on arrival:
| Country | Stay Duration |
|---|---|
| Algeria | Up to 90 days |
| Cote d’Ivoire | Up to 90 days |
| Gabon | Up to 90 days |
| Gambia | Up to 90 days |
| Libya | Up to 90 days |
| Mali | Up to 90 days |
| Niger | Up to 90 days |
| Senegal | Up to 90 days |
| Syria | Up to 90 days |
| Tunisia | Up to 90 days |
If your country is not listed above, you need an e-Visa before traveling to Mauritania. See our full guide on Mauritania visa-free countries for more details.
How to Get the Mauritania e-Visa Instead
Since the visa on arrival is no longer available, here is how to apply for the e-Visa:
Step 1: Visit the ANRPTS Portal
Go to anrpts.gov.mr – this is the official Mauritanian government portal for e-Visa applications.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Fill in your personal details, passport information, travel dates, and upload a passport photo. Read our Mauritania visa photo requirements guide to ensure your photo meets specifications.
Step 3: Submit and Wait for Approval
Processing typically takes a few business days. Apply well in advance of your trip to avoid delays. For a full walkthrough, see our how to apply for Mauritania eVisa guide.
Step 4: Print Your e-Visa
Once approved, print a physical copy of your e-Visa. You will need to present it at check-in and on arrival in Mauritania.
Step 5: Pay the Fee on Arrival
The e-Visa fee is paid in exact cash upon arrival in Mauritania, in either Euros (EUR) or US Dollars (USD). Important:
- No change is given – bring the exact amount
- No receipts are issued – keep your own records
- Check the current Mauritania visa fees before you travel
Mauritania e-Visa vs. Old Visa on Arrival
| Feature | Visa on Arrival (old) | e-Visa (current) |
|---|---|---|
| Available since | Historical | January 2025 |
| Where to apply | Airport immigration counter | Online at anrpts.gov.mr |
| Pre-travel approval | No | Yes, required |
| Payment | Cash at airport | Cash at airport (EUR or USD) |
| Processing time | Immediate | Several business days |
| Valid for | Single entry | 30, 90, 360, or 720 days |
| Embassy alternative | Yes | No (embassies stopped issuing) |
Countries That Previously Used Visa on Arrival
Before January 2025, most nationalities that required a visa could obtain one on arrival. This included citizens from:
- European countries – France, Germany, UK, Spain, Italy, and others
- North America – United States and Canada
- Asia – India, Pakistan, China, Japan
- Africa – Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa (non-exempt countries)
- Middle East – UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey
All of these nationalities now need to apply for an e-Visa online before departure. See our Mauritania visa requirements page for nationality-specific details.
Entry Requirements Beyond the Visa
Whether you travel visa-free or with an e-Visa, you must meet these requirements on arrival:
- Passport validity – Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date
- Yellow fever certificate – Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk
- Printed e-Visa – Carry a physical printout of your approved e-Visa
- Cash for fees – Bring exact EUR or USD for the e-Visa fee payment
- Return/onward ticket – Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel
Learn more about all Mauritania entry requirements in our detailed guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get a visa on arrival in Mauritania in 2026?
No. The visa on arrival was permanently discontinued on January 5, 2025. All travelers who need a visa must apply for an e-Visa online at anrpts.gov.mr before their trip.
What replaced the Mauritania visa on arrival?
The Mauritania e-Visa system replaced the visa on arrival. It is managed by ANRPTS and requires online pre-approval before traveling. The fee is still paid in cash on arrival in EUR or USD.
Do I need to visit an embassy for a Mauritania visa?
No. As of June 2025, Mauritanian embassies no longer issue visas. They direct all applicants to the online e-Visa portal at anrpts.gov.mr.
How much does the Mauritania e-Visa cost?
The e-Visa fee depends on the visa type (30, 90, 360, or 720 days). Fees are paid in exact cash on arrival in EUR or USD. See our Mauritania visa fee page for current pricing.
Which countries are visa-free for Mauritania?
Citizens of 10 countries can enter Mauritania without a visa for up to 90 days, including Algeria, Senegal, Mali, Niger, Libya, Tunisia, Gambia, Cote d’Ivoire, Gabon, and Syria.
Can I apply for the e-Visa at the airport?
No. The e-Visa must be obtained online before your flight. Airlines may deny boarding if you do not have a pre-approved e-Visa. Apply at anrpts.gov.mr several days before departure.
What if my e-Visa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, contact ANRPTS at [email protected] for clarification. You can also read our guide on what to do if your Mauritania eVisa is rejected.
Is the e-Visa fee paid online or on arrival?
The e-Visa fee is paid in cash upon arrival in Mauritania, not during the online application. Bring exact change in Euros or US dollars.
