Verified Facts
To enter Reunion, citizens of most countries require a visa, with some exceptions for EU citizens and a few other nationalities, and it's essential to verify the specific requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Reunion before traveling.
Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Reunion before traveling.
Visa Policy Overview
Reunion, being an overseas department of France, has a moderate visa policy, with citizens of around 100 countries required to obtain a visa before arrival. However, EU citizens, as well as citizens of a few other countries, can enter Reunion visa-free for tourism and business purposes. The visa policy is largely aligned with that of France, and the types of visas available include tourist, business, student, and work visas. Reunion's unique location in the Indian Ocean, close to Madagascar and Mauritius, makes it an attractive destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
The visa policy of Reunion is designed to balance the need to facilitate travel and trade with the need to ensure the security and integrity of the territory. As a result, the visa requirements and regulations can be complex, and it's essential to understand the specific requirements for your nationality and purpose of visit. Reunion's visa policy is also influenced by its membership in the Schengen Area, which means that citizens of certain countries may need to obtain a Schengen visa to enter Reunion.
Requirements By Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required? | Type | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | No | Tourist | 90 days | Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay |
| UK Citizens | No | Tourist | 90 days | Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay |
| EU Citizens | No | Tourist | 90 days | Passport or national ID card required |
| Canadian Citizens | No | Tourist | 90 days | Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay |
| Australian Citizens | No | Tourist | 90 days | Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | eVisa | 30 days | Must apply online at least 72 hours before arrival |
| Chinese Citizens | Yes | Visa | 30 days | Must apply at a French embassy or consulate |
By Visitor Type
Tourists: Tourists can stay in Reunion for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds. The typical stay for tourists is 7-14 days, and extensions are possible but require application at the local immigration office. Tourists can engage in activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and water sports, but are not allowed to work or engage in any business activities.
Business Travelers: Business travelers may require a visa, depending on their nationality, and must provide an invitation letter from a Reunion-based company, as well as proof of their business activities. The requirements for business travelers are similar to those for tourists, but may also include additional documentation such as a business plan or contract.
Students: Students must obtain a student visa, which requires proof of enrollment at a Reunion-based educational institution, as well as proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. The duration of the student visa is typically one year, and can be renewed annually.
Workers: Workers must obtain a work visa, which requires sponsorship from a Reunion-based employer, as well as proof of qualifications and experience. The process for obtaining a work visa can be complex and time-consuming, and requires careful planning and preparation.
Documents Checklist
- Valid passport with at least six months' validity beyond intended stay
- Completed visa application form (if required)
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of onward travel
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Health insurance certificate
- Invitation letter from a Reunion-based company (for business travelers)
- Proof of enrollment at a Reunion-based educational institution (for students)
- Sponsorship letter from a Reunion-based employer (for workers)
- Police certificate (for certain nationalities)
Entry Points & Procedures
The main airport in Reunion is Roland Garros Airport, which is located in Saint-Denis and receives international flights from Europe, Africa, and Asia. Upon arrival, travelers must present their travel documents and complete an arrival card, which will be provided by the airline or available at the airport. The immigration process typically takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of travelers and the complexity of their cases. Travelers may also be required to undergo a health screening or provide additional documentation, such as proof of vaccination or a medical certificate.
Reunion also has several seaports, including the Port of Saint-Denis and the Port of Le Port, which receive cargo ships and cruise liners. Travelers arriving by sea must also present their travel documents and complete an arrival card, and may be subject to additional inspections or screenings. The entry procedures for travelers arriving by sea are similar to those for air travelers, but may require additional documentation such as a ship's manifest or a cargo declaration.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not checking the validity of your passport before traveling
- Not applying for a visa in advance (if required)
- Not providing sufficient proof of onward travel
- Not having sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
- Not declaring all goods and currency at customs
- Not obtaining health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay
- Not registering with the local immigration office (if required)