Madagascar visa for Japanese Citizens

Travelling to Madagascar offers a unique adventure to witness some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity. For Japanese citizens looking to explore the wonders of Madagascar, understanding the visa process is an essential step in planning your trip. This guide provides all the information you need to navigate the Madagascar visaapplication process smoothly.

Understanding Madagascar E-visa

The Madagascar E-visa is an electronic visa for short-term tourism purposes, allowing foreign nationals to apply online without the need to visit an embassy. This system streamlines entry at ports, enhances security, and provides reliable immigration data. The visa is single-entry, valid for up to 90 days, and available to all nationalities.

Different Types of Madagascar E-visa

The Madagascar E-visa system currently supports only the tourist and business visa. This is a single-entry visa with a maximum duration of 90 days, designed primarily for those visiting Madagascar for tourism and business purposes.

• Tourist E-visa: Ideal for tourists interested in exploring, visiting relatives, or engaging in other non-business activities.
• Business E-visa: Designed for individuals participating in business ventures without seeking employment in Madagascar.
• Transit E-visa: Suitable for those transiting through Madagascar en route to another destination.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for Madagascar E-visa?

The requirements to be eligible for a Madagascar e-Visa are designed to facilitate travellers' entry into the country for tourism and certain other non-commercial purposes. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

• All Nationalities Eligible: The Madagascar e-Visa is open to all nationalities, with minimal exceptions, making it widely accessible for travel.
• Purpose of Visit: The e-Visa is primarily designed for short visits, focusing on tourism, such as exploring nature, wildlife, and cultural sites or visiting friends and family. Long-term activities should be covered in this.
• Completed e-Visa Application: A fully filled-out Madagascar e-Visa application form is required.
• Payment Method: A credit or debit card that is in use must be used to pay the application fee online.

Madagascar E-visa Requirements for Japanese Citizens

For Japanese nationals applying for a Madagascar E-Visa, several criteria must be fulfilled to ensure a successful application. Below is a summary of the requirements:

• Passport Validity: Applicants must possess a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months before their arrival date in Madagascar. 2 blank pages are included in the passport for the stamps for entry and exit.
• Online Application Completion: The E-Visa application must be filled out accurately on the website, with all details matching those in the applicant's travel documents.
• Visa Application Fee: There's a fee associated with the E-Visa application, varying by visa type and length of stay. Payment is typically made online through a credit or debit card.
• Valid Email Address: Applicants must provide an active email address to get the E-Visa electronically once it is processed and approved.

Additional Documents (May Be Required)

The Madagascar immigration authorities might request certain additional documents depending on the visa type and for security reasons:

• Digital Photo: A recent digital photo with a white background is necessary, showing the applicant's face clearly. Any headgear worn for religious reasons must not obscure the face.
• Travel Itinerary: While not always mandatory, presenting a detailed travel itinerary, including flight and hotel bookings, can support your application by clarifying your travel intentions.
• Proof of Accommodation: You may need documentation proving where you will be staying during your trip, like reservations for a hotel or a host's invitation in Madagascar.
• Return or Onward Ticket: Documentation proving that you have plans to depart Madagascar, such as a return or onward ticket, may be requested to ensure you don't overstay.
• Proof of Financial Means: You may need to show you have enough funds for your stay through bank statements or a sponsor's letter.

Madagascar E-visa step by step application process

Travellers from eligible nations, such as Japan, can apply online for a Madagascar e-Visa and get their visas without having to go to an embassy or consulate because the application process is simple and easy to use. Here's a consolidated step-by-step guide based on information from several sources:

• Access the E-Visa Site: Go to the website for Madagascar e-visa.
• Fill Application Form: Accurately complete the form with personal, travel, and passport information.
• Upload Documents: Attach digital copies of necessary documents, including your passport and bio page.
• Payment of Visa Fee: Use a credit or debit card to pay the application fee.
• E-Visa Receipt: Upon approval, you'll receive the e-visa via email. Ensure to print it for presentation upon arrival in Madagascar.

How much does a Madagascar E-visa cost?

Like e-visas for other nations, the price of a Madagascar e-visa for Japanese nationals varies depending on a few factors, such as the kind of visa you are applying for, how frequently you want to enter the country, and how quickly you need the application processed.

You should refer to the Madagascar visa fee page on their website for accurate fee information. This page includes a detailed fee chart or a tool to calculate the fee, ensuring you get the precise amount for your visa based on the specific details of your trip.

Processing of Madagascar E-visa

Applicants should anticipate receiving their e-visa by one week from submission, although this timeframe might vary. Submitting your application before your scheduled trip is recommended to mitigate any unforeseen delays.

For the most current and detailed information regarding processing times, applicants should refer to the official Madagascar e-Visa portal. Processing times are subject to change and may be influenced by the current application volume or other external factors.

Madagascar E-Visa Processing Times Overview:

• Normal Processing: This takes 4 to 6 working days without additional fees.
• Urgent Processing: Expedited processing within 2 to 4 working days, subject to extra charges.
• Super Urgent Processing: Additional fees will be incurred for the fastest processing within 1 to 3 working days.

Applicants are encouraged to choose a processing time that suits their schedule, considering that faster processing options come with extra charges.

Validity Period of Madagascar E-visa

The duration of the Madagascar e-Visa is determined by the option selected at the time of application, which offers 15, 30, or 60-day stays. Once issued, the e-visa remains valid for 90 days, allowing entry into Madagascar at any point during this period. However, the length of stay must be the period specified by the chosen visa type.

Extension of Madagascar E-visa

Yes, you can extend your Madagascar E-visa if you need more time in the country! Here's what you need to know:

• Apply in Person: Extensions for E-visas are not available online. You need to visit an Immigration Office in Madagascar to apply.
• Do it Before Expiry: Make sure you submit your application at least a few days before your visa expires. Staying on an expired visa is illegal.
• Possible Extension Period: The maximum extension you can get is 90 days on top of your existing visa validity.
• Required Documents: Generally, you'll need your passport (original and copies), a copy of your E-visa, and a completed application form. Additional documents proving your reason for extension might be requested.
• Fees Involved: Extension fees will be paid.

Advantages of Madagascar E-visa

Japanese citizens looking to explore Madagascar can benefit significantly from the E-visa system. Here are some key advantages:

• Simplified Application: Forget lengthy paper forms and visits to embassies. The E-visa allows you to apply conveniently from Japan online, saving time and effort.
• Faster Processing: Compared to traditional visas, E-visas boast quicker processing times. This means you can confirm your trip to Madagascar with less waiting.
• Cost-Effective: E-visas typically involve lower fees than regular visas. You also avoid potential expenses like courier charges or embassy appointments.
• Streamlined Arrival: With a pre-approved E-visa, you can breeze through immigration upon arrival in Madagascar, saving time and hassle at the airport.

In essence, the E-visa system makes visiting Madagascar for Japanese citizens more streamlined and hassle-free, so you can concentrate on preparing for your thrilling trip.

For more details: the Embassy of Madagascar in Japan

A Madagascar Embassy in Japan is located in Tokyo's special wards:

• Embassy Name: Embassy of Madagascar
• Location: Special wards of Tokyo, Japan

Frequently asked questions