Citizenship: USA
- For U.S. citizens only. If you are not a U.S. citizen, call (914) 592-2760.
- Your U.S. passport must be signed, valid for 6+ months, and have 2–3 blank visa pages (not "Amendment" pages).
- The fee for reformatting uploaded documents is $35.00..
Entry Requirements
- Visa required. Please call JIDS to verify the correct visa type for your trip (updated Sept 2021).
- Passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond your final day in Benin.
- The visa should be obtained prior to travel.
Photo Requirements
- Your head must face the camera directly with full face in view.
- Neutral facial expression or natural smile, with both eyes open.
- Taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis.
- Taken in the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background.
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Head between 1–1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head.
- Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper, in color.
- No glasses.
- No hat or head covering (exceptions for documented religious or medical reasons).
- Full face visible; no shadows on face.
- No headphones or wireless hands-free devices.
If Traveling for Business
- Valid signed passport (include a color copy of the information page).
- At least two blank visa pages side by side are required. “Amendment” pages are not valid for visas.
- Visa Application: Two Benin Visa Application Forms, completed and signed.
- Photos: Two (2) recent (within 6 months) 2×2 inch passport photos (not the same as in your passport).
- Proof of Travel:
- Computer-generated itinerary or airline e-confirmation showing departure from the U.S. and arrival/departure for Benin (with valid record locator).
- Copy of airline ticket or e-ticket.
- U.S. Company Business Cover Letter (original, wet-ink signature; not signed by the traveler):
- On company letterhead; include traveler’s passport details and purpose of trip.
- State who will cover expenses.
Example: Business Letter Sample
If you need passport services, see: Passport Services.
If Traveling for Tourism
- No business letter required; all other requirements are the same as Business (passport, forms, photos, proof of travel).
Health Requirements
- Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory (International Certificate must be presented at application).
- Cholera vaccination is recommended.
- Review official guidance at CDC.gov.
Register Your Trip (STEP)
Give yourself peace of mind.
JIDS can enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for $25.00 via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Accompanying Minors
- Application signed by both parents/guardians.
- Notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardians.
- Original and copy of the minor's birth certificate.
Non-U.S. Citizens
- Include a copy of your U.S. Green Card (permanent residents) or your U.S. visa (visa holders).
- Visa requirements vary by nationality. Call JIDS at (914) 592-2760 for assistance.
Return Shipping & JIDS Fees
Return Shipping
- FedEx charge according to ZIP code.
- Saturday/8AM delivery available.
- Include a printed airbill to avoid extra charges. (No UPS accounts can be processed through us.)
Service Fees
- See JIDS pricing or call (914) 592-2760.
- If JIDS pays government fees on your behalf, a 5.9% processing fee applies.
