Central African Republic

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in the Central African Republic set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Central African Republic Embassy in Paris (in French).    

Passport validity requirements

To enter the Central African Republic, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual Citizenship.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit the Central African Republic.

Applying for a visa

Apply for a visa through the Central African Republic Embassy in Paris (in French). Requirements can change at short notice, contact the Central African Republic Embassy in Paris for the latest requirements.

Vaccine requirements

To pass border control in the Central African Republic, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.

For more details about health entry requirements and recommended vaccinations for the Central African Republic, see TravelHealthPro’s Central African Republic guide. 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the Central African Republic. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

There is an export tax on cultural artefacts.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in the Central African Republic

Telephone: 117 (ambulance, fire, police)

or

Ambulance: 610600           

Fire: 118

Military police (‘gendarmerie’): 2161 2200

Emergency numbers are unreliable in the Central African Republic. The emergency services are unlikely to respond outside Bangui.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers and translators and interpreters in the Central African Republic
• dealing with a death in the Central African Republic
• Being arrested or imprisoned in the Central African Republic
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

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