Madagascar Visa for Spanish Citizens

Madagascar, an island nation famed for its unparalleled biodiversity, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes, is a dream destination for many travellers, including those from Spain. However, before embarking on a journey to explore its lush rainforests, unique wildlife, and pristine beaches, Spanish citizens must obtain a visa. This guide offers detailed insights into securing a Madagascar visa, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

What is Madagascar E-visa?

The Madagascar e-Visa is an online travel authorisation for visitors, streamlining the entry process by allowing applications and payments through an official online portal. Once approved, it's emailed to the applicant, who presents a printout upon arrival in Madagascar. This system facilitates easier access for tourism, business, or transit purposes, bypassing the need to apply at an embassy or consulate.

Types of E-visa available

Whether planning a leisurely vacation, a business trip, or simply passing through, there's an e-Visa designed for your journey. Available types include the Tourist Visa, Business Visa, and Transit Visa. Each visa category is structured to accommodate the duration and nature of your stay, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

1. Tourist Visa: This visa is ideal for Spanish citizens travelling for leisure or to visit family and friends. It is available for 15, 30, or 60 days.
2. Business Visa: Necessary for individuals engaging in business activities, attending conferences, or participating in short-term projects. Business visas might necessitate a letter of invitation from a Malagasy company.
3. Transit Visa: For travellers passing through Madagascar to reach another destination if the transit time exceeds 24 hours.

What are the eligibility Criteria for Madagascar E-visa?

Spanish citizens can apply for a Madagascar E-Visa, reflecting Madagascar's welcoming stance towards international visitors. Here are the key requirements for Spanish applicants:

• Purpose of Visit: Spanish travellers can choose from various E-visa categories tailored to their travel intentions.
• Requirements for Passport: Spanish applicants must have a passport with at least one blank page for entry and departure stamps, and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the applicant's intended arrival date in Madagascar.
• E-Visa Application Form: The E-Visa application must be completed online, with all information accurately reflecting the details in your travel documents.

Required documentation for Madagascar E-visa

Spanish citizens must meet specific criteria to facilitate a smooth application process to secure a Madagascar E-visa. Here is an overview of the necessary requirements:

• Passport Criteria: Ensure your passport contains at least two blank pages for stamps upon entering and leaving Madagascar and remains valid for at least 6 months after your expected arrival in the country.
• Filling Out the Online Form: The Madagascar E-Visa application must be completed accurately on the official portal, with all information correctly reflecting your travel documents.
• E-Visa Fee: Fees for the E-Visa depend on the selected visa category and the duration of your visit. Payment is typically made through online transactions using credit or debit cards.
• Valid Email Address: A current email address is essential to receive the processed and approved E-Visa electronically.

Supplementary Documents for Application

• Digital Photograph: You must provide a recent passport-style digital photo with a plain white backdrop. If you wear headgear for religious purposes, it should not hide any part of your face.
• Travel Plans: Although it’s not always a requirement, having a detailed travel plan, including your flight and lodging details, can strengthen your visa application by showing clear travel purposes.
• Accommodation Confirmation: You may need to show where you'll be staying in Madagascar, which can be a reservation for a hotel or a request from someone residing in the country.
• Proof of Departure: It's essential to present evidence, such as a return or onward flight ticket, that you have arrangements to leave Madagascar, underscoring that you don’t intend to exceed your stay.
• Financial Proof: Demonstrating that you have adequate funds for the duration of your stay is necessary. This could be through bank statements or a letter of financial support.

How do I apply for a Madagascar E-visa application?

Spanish citizens can apply for a Madagascar E-visa through an online system, removing the need to go to a consulate or embassy physically. This digital application method is streamlined for user ease. Below is a simplified guide:

• Access the E-Visa Website: Start by going to the Madagascar E-visa portal to initiate your application.
• Fill Out the Form: Accurately complete the application with your personal information, details of your journey, and passport data.
• Upload Required Documents: Electronically upload the necessary documents, which usually include a digital copy of your passport and its bio page.
• Online Fee Payment: Pay the visa application fee via the safe online payment system using a legitimate debit or credit card.
• E-Visa Receipt: Upon approval and processing of your application, your E-visa will be emailed to you. Make sure to print this document and bring it with you, as you must present it when you arrive in Madagascar.

Madagascar E-visa Fee

The price of a Madagascar e-visa or visa fluctuates based on several factors, including the visa category, the applicant's nationality, the number of entries, and the preferred processing duration. Spanish citizens can check the exact fee by visiting the Madagascar visa fee webpage, which features a detailed fee chart and a fee calculator. This page enables applicants to ascertain and confirm the specific visa fee pertinent to their needs.

Madagascar E-visa Processing Time

Applicants can expect to receive their e-visa approximately one week after submitting their application, although this timeframe may vary. Applying for the e-visa well before your planned travel date is advisable to avoid any potential delays.

For up-to-date and precise information regarding processing times, consulting the Madagascar e-Visa website is recommended. These timeframes are subject to change due to application volume or other external factors.

Madagascar E-Visa Duration

From the issuance date, a Madagascar e-visa remains valid for a maximum of 90 days, granting travellers the flexibility to enter Madagascar at any point within this timeframe. The actual length of permitted stay in Madagascar depends on the e-visa category chosen at the time of application, commonly available in 15, 30, or 60-day options. Travellers must ensure their trip aligns with the e-visa's validity to adhere to Madagascar's immigration regulations.

Visa Extension Options for Spanish Citizens in Madagascar

If you're a Spanish citizen with a valid visa already and need to extend your stay in Madagascar, you'll need to apply for an extension in person at a Madagascar Immigration Office. Here's what you can expect:

• Eligibility: Extensions are typically granted for a maximum of 90 days. You'll need a valid reason for requesting an extension, and approval is at the discretion of the immigration officer.
• Application Process: Visit the nearest Immigration Office in Madagascar. They will provide details on the required documents and fees. Common requirements include:

• Completed application form (available at the office)
• Your passport (with valid entry stamp and sufficient remaining validity)
• Proof of onward or return flight ticket
• Photocopies of the above documents
• Extension fees (payable in Malagasy Ariary)

Frequently asked questions