DR Congo to Launch New e-Visa System Soon

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has taken a major step forward in digital development with the upcoming launch of an integrated electronic visa management platform. This initiative will allow anyone planning to visit the DRC to submit their visa application easily and efficiently from anywhere in the world.

An innovative technological solution to streamline administrative procedures

Minister of Digital Affairs Désiré Casimir Eberande Kolongele announced the exciting news during the 115th council of ministers chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi. According to him, this modern platform will not only simplify access to the country for foreign visitors but also strengthen security and risk management measures.

The key benefits of this technological solution include:

• The ability to submit a visa application from anywhere in the world,

• Automated and expedited processing of applications through the country’s 61 diplomatic missions and consular posts worldwide,

• Improved coordination between the ministries involved in visa issuance, including the ministries of Foreign Affairs, the Interior, Security, and Traditional Affairs,

• Enhanced tracking and traceability of visa applications.

DRC’s push to modernize digital infrastructure

The launch of this platform comes as the Democratic Republic of the Congo modernizes its digital infrastructure — a sector in which the country has lagged behind due to the poor condition of equipment operated by LOCOSEM, a subsidiary of Semlex, the former visa operator. This situation prompted Minister Eberande Kolongele to urge the government to support the president’s vision of establishing an electronic visa system for the country.

Easier travel and economic growth on the horizon

With the new e-Visa system, the DRC aims not only to streamline international travel to the country but also to invigorate its economy by attracting more visitors. The tourism sector is expected to benefit significantly, as the modernization of administrative processes will encourage travelers worldwide to explore the country’s natural and cultural treasures.

Key figures include:

• A population of over 80 million,

• 61 diplomatic missions and consular posts worldwide,

• Major tourist attractions such as Virunga and Salonga National Parks.

A much-needed upgrade to DRC’s existing e-Visa

The DRC technically already has an e-Visa system — though it has been criticized for being impractical, largely due to several critical limitations:

• Applicants must pay very high fees online upfront, followed by another payment upon arrival (approximately €390 in total),

• The stay duration is limited to just 7 days under the current e-Visa,

• Despite its online start, the finalization of the process upon arrival undermines the very advantages an e-Visa should provide.

It is widely acknowledged that the new e-Visa system will mark significant progress in the DRC’s efforts to attract more international tourists and convey a more welcoming image for visitors.