Payment troubles and delays mar Cameroon e-visa launch

Since the launch of Cameroon’s new official e-Visa portal on April 30, travelers have reported major issues finalizing payments.

Users are citing failed transactions, error messages, online payment failures, and even multiple unauthorized debits without subsequent visa approval.

These payment glitches have delayed applications, frustrated applicants, and in some cases incurred extra bank charges for unsuccessful transactions. Frustrated travelers have taken to social media, urging faster fixes to ease travel plans to Cameroon.

Why Cameroon’s e-Visa payment problems are happening — and how to resolve them

Multiple factors likely contribute to these payment snags. The site’s newness and a surge in applications—since Cameroon no longer accepts paper applications at embassies—can overload the system. Technical flaws may also play a role: integration errors with payment providers or transaction processing glitches. One user even reverse-engineered part of the platform and identified an API issue.

The Consulate General of Cameroon in Paris (France) wishes to inform the public that, as from April 30 2023, all visa applications for travel to Cameroon must be submitted online.

Consulate of Cameroon in Paris

Authorities say they’re aware of the difficulties and are working to resolve payment failures quickly. Dedicated technical teams are tracking down root causes and rolling out fixes. Visamundi, which has not yet seen these failures on the government portal, warns that initial document lists often grow after payment—including birth certificates or family records—so travelers are advised to prepare early.

Additional delays beyond payment issues

Beyond payment, many users report abnormally long processing times. Even after successful payment, travelers have waited several weeks—far beyond stated turnaround times, even for “express” service—before receiving a visa.

These prolonged delays are forcing some travelers to postpone trips or seek alternative visa routes. Intermediate agencies cannot influence these timelines; visa issuance remains solely at the discretion of Cameroonian authorities.

Delays likely stem from staffing shortages, backend technical problems, or coordination gaps in the multi-step process.

High consular fees further complicate matters

The e-Visa has not reduced costs despite lower overhead. Fees have actually risen slightly (+€13), including new processing charges. Standard consular fees now approach €167, putting Cameroon among the world’s priciest destinations. Express fees have surged even more: up 33% for short stays and 50% for long stays.

Mistakes in your application may lead to rejection—and rejected applications are not refunded. Using a trusted private agency familiar with these procedures can help avoid costly errors.