Has Burkina Faso Removed Visa Restrictions for All Africans?
On September 12, 2025, a Facebook user, NewsflashNaijaChronicles made a claim that President Traoré declared that all African passport holders can now enter Burkina Faso without a visa. The post had an image of Burkina Faso President Ibrahin Traoré with the caption:
“BREAKING: Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traoré Removes Visa Restrictions for All Africans. In a groundbreaking decision aimed at promoting African unity, President Ibrahim Traoré has declared that all African passport holders can now enter Burkina Faso without a visa. This exciting development allows Africans from all corners of the continent to travel freely to Burkina Faso, marking a significant stride towards greater continental integration, Pan-Africanism, and economic collaboration. We want to hear from you: Should more African nations embrace this policy to enhance unity and trade across the continent?”.
As of when this report was published, the post had generated about 17,700 likes, comments and shares.
VERIFICATION
On September 12, 2025, Burkina Faso’s government confirmed that visa fees have been scrapped for all African nationals. Security Minister Mahamadou Sana explained that Africans traveling to Burkina Faso will no longer pay visa fees when applying. According to Sana, the free visa system for African nationals will also help promote tourism, showcase Burkinabe culture and enhance Burkina Faso’s visibility abroad.
Visa fee removal means travellers are still required to apply for a visa or entry authorisation. The government continues to process applications, verify documents, and approve entry. The only change is that applicants no longer pay a fee for this process.
However, Travelling without Visa means, travelers do not need to apply for a visa at all before entry. Entry is granted automatically upon arrival, usually with just a valid passport. No application forms, no approval process, and no visa document is required.
African citizens are still required to complete an online application/verification process before entering Burkina Faso. This means visa applications are still required, but they are now free of charge. NV-A carried out a review of Burkina Faso’s official website and found no official statement confirming that Africans can travel to the country without a visa.
CONCLUSION
The claim that Burkina Faso has removed all visa requirements for Africans is MISLEADING. While the country has waived visa fees, travellers from African nations must still complete an online application to obtain entry authorisation.