There is a genuinely good deal here that many travellers miss. Under a reciprocity agreement between the DRC and the United States, visas for tourism, study and business are valid for two years and cost $185. For anyone travelling more than once, that is far better value than a single-entry visa.
Quick facts
Americans are generally required to apply from the embassy in Washington rather than from a mission elsewhere, so plan around that and allow the full two to three weeks.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reciprocity visa | $185 | Two years, tourism, study, business |
| Other categories | Consular tariff | Ask the embassy |
| Yellow fever vaccination | Charged by your clinic | Required for entry |
| Airport departure fees | Paid at check-in | Domestic flights $10 |
| Payment | Blank money order | No cash |
Departure fees are paid at check-in by all international travellers, and domestic flights carry their own charge. Budget cash for that rather than discovering it at the airport.
How to apply
- Arrange the yellow fever vaccination, which is an entry condition.
- Complete the application for the reciprocity visa if you qualify.
- Gather the invitation or company documentation your purpose requires.
- Pay by blank money order addressed to the embassy.
- Include a prepaid return label with tracking.
- Allow two to three weeks before travel.
Required documents
- Passport valid well beyond the intended stay.
- Completed application and photographs.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Invitation, hotel booking or company letter.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Payment and a prepaid return label.
Where to apply
At the embassy in Washington, which handles American applicants, with a representative office in New York.
No offices currently listed.
Additional notes
If you are stopped at the border
The U.S. government advises travellers who face detention, passport confiscation or demands for unofficial fees at a port of entry to ask to contact the U.S. embassy. Knowing that in advance is worth more than knowing it afterwards.
Two years is the point
The reciprocity visa is designed for repeat travel. If you visit family annually, it pays for itself immediately.
Congolese citizens need no visa
But dual nationals should read the citizenship page before travelling.
Verify close to travel
Conditions vary considerably by region. Check the current advisory.