🇨🇲 Cameroon visa requirements

Most passports need a visa before you arrive in Cameroon. Your only real exception is the Schengen Area and a handful of others. Don't expect to just rock up and sort it.

Who actually gets visa-free entry to Cameroon?

It's a short list. Citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. That’s about it for Europe. The United States and Canada are not on this list; you need a visa. Same goes for Australia. Many African nations also require a visa, though some ECOWAS citizens might get 30 days on arrival. For everyone else, plan on securing your visa well in advance from a Cameroonian embassy or consulate in your current location. This isn't a place where you can wing it.

How long can you actually stay, and what's the catch?

Standard tourist visas typically allow for 30 days of stay, often with a single-entry stipulation. Some might be issued for 60 or 90 days, but this is less common and depends heavily on the consulate you apply through. The real gotcha? Exit stamps. Many travellers report issues leaving without proper exit stamps from their last point of departure within Cameroon. This can lead to fines or further complications. Overstaying is a serious offence. While specific fines can vary wildly and are rarely advertised, expect penalties that could amount to $50-$100 USD per day, and potentially detention or deportation. Double-entry visas are rare, so if you plan to leave and re-enter Cameroon, you absolutely must get a multiple-entry visa beforehand.

Can you work remotely on a tourist visa?

Legally, no. Cameroon does not have a specific digital nomad visa. Working remotely on a tourist stamp is a grey area that authorities may or may not enforce, depending on who you encounter and how visible your work is. You're technically not supposed to engage in any professional activity. That said, many remote workers do operate from Cameroon using tourist visas. The key is to keep a low profile. Avoid discussing your work with immigration officials or local police. If you're running a business or have constant client calls, you might draw unwanted attention. For longer stays or more official business, you would need a specific work or business visa, which is a much more complex process.

What's the latest on Cameroon's eVisa and fees?

Cameroon has been rolling out an eVisa system, which is a significant step forward. The goal is to streamline the application process and make it more accessible. The eVisa is typically for tourist or business stays and can often be applied for online. Fees can change, but expect them to be in the range of $100-$200 USD for a standard tourist eVisa, with processing times varying from a few days to a couple of weeks. It's crucial to check the official government eVisa portal for the most current information regarding eligible nationalities, required documents, and exact fees before you apply. There have been occasional reports of suspensions or expansions of the eVisa service for certain nationalities, so always verify the current status.