Verified Facts
As a territory of France, Mayotte follows the French visa policy, and citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter the island, while others can enter visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival.
Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Mayotte before traveling.
Visa Policy Overview
Mayotte has a moderate visa policy, with citizens of around 80 countries eligible for visa-free access, including all European Union member states, the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Citizens of these countries can stay in Mayotte for up to 90 days without a visa, as long as their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. However, citizens of other countries, including many African and Asian nations, will need to obtain a visa before arriving in Mayotte.
The visa policy for Mayotte is largely aligned with that of France, and the island's authorities follow the same guidelines and requirements as the French government. This means that citizens of countries that require a visa for France will also need a visa for Mayotte. It's essential to note that even if you don't need a visa to enter Mayotte, you may still need to meet certain requirements, such as having a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds for your stay.
Requirements By Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required? | Type | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | No | Visa-free | 90 days | Must have a valid passport |
| UK Citizens | No | Visa-free | 90 days | Must have a valid passport |
| EU Citizens | No | Visa-free | 90 days | Must have a valid passport or ID card |
| Canadian Citizens | No | Visa-free | 90 days | Must have a valid passport |
| Australian Citizens | No | Visa-free | 90 days | Must have a valid passport |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | eVisa | 30 days | Must apply online before arrival |
| Chinese Citizens | Yes | Visa required | 30 days | Must apply at a French embassy or consulate |
By Visitor Type
Tourists: Tourists can enter Mayotte visa-free if they are citizens of an eligible country, and can stay for up to 90 days. They will need to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay. Tourists can also apply for an extension of their stay, but this must be done at least 15 days before their initial stay expires.
Business Travelers: Business travelers may need to obtain a visa, depending on their nationality and the purpose of their visit. They will need to provide an invitation letter from a Mayotte-based company, as well as proof of their business activities and sufficient funds. Business travelers can stay for up to 90 days, but may need to apply for an extension if they need to stay longer.
Students: Students who wish to study in Mayotte will need to obtain a student visa, which can be applied for at a French embassy or consulate. They will need to provide proof of enrollment at a Mayotte-based educational institution, as well as sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. Student visas are typically valid for one year, but can be renewed.
Workers: Workers who wish to work in Mayotte will need to obtain a work visa, which can be applied for at a French embassy or consulate. They will need to provide a contract of employment from a Mayotte-based company, as well as proof of their qualifications and experience. Work visas are typically valid for one year, but can be renewed.
Documents Checklist
- A valid passport with at least six months' validity
- A completed visa application form (if required)
- One recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of onward travel (e.g. a return ticket)
- Proof of sufficient funds (e.g. cash, traveler's checks, credit cards)
- Health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay
- A hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
- A letter of invitation (if required, e.g. for business travelers)
- Proof of enrollment (if required, e.g. for students)
- A contract of employment (if required, e.g. for workers)
Entry Points & Procedures
The main entry point to Mayotte is the Dzaoudzi Pamandzi International Airport, which receives flights from France, Africa, and other nearby islands. When arriving at the airport, visitors will need to go through immigration and customs, where they will need to present their travel documents and answer questions about their stay. Visitors can also arrive by sea, at the port of Longoni, but this is less common. At immigration, visitors will need to show their passport, visa (if required), and proof of onward travel, and may be asked questions about their stay, such as the purpose of their visit and their accommodation arrangements.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Failing to check the validity of your passport before traveling
- Not having sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
- Not having proof of onward travel
- Not applying for a visa in advance (if required)
- Not having the required documents, such as a hotel reservation or proof of enrollment
- Not declaring goods that are subject to customs duties, such as large quantities of tobacco or alcohol