The Immigration Crisis at Morocco’s Borders

Ground Reality Of The Immigration Crisis at Morocco’s Borders

The immigration crisis at Morocco’s borders has emerged as a focal point in the ongoing global discussion about migration. As a key transit country for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East aiming to reach Europe, Morocco faces a complex situation marked by significant human suffering, political challenges, and international cooperation. This blog post delves into the intricacies of the border crossing crisis, examining migrant numbers, death tolls, integration efforts, and the impact of European Union (EU) immigration policies in collaboration with Morocco.

The Landscape of Migration in Morocco

Migrant Numbers

Morocco has become a prominent hub for migrants seeking to enter Europe. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), approximately **30,000 to 40,000 migrants** are estimated to be living in Morocco at any given time. This number includes individuals from various African nations—such as Mali, Guinea, and Nigeria—as well as Middle Eastern countries like Syria and Afghanistan. Many of these migrants are drawn to Morocco due to its relative stability compared to their home countries, yet they often find themselves in precarious situations.

The Death Toll

The perilous journey across the Mediterranean Sea is fraught with danger. In 2021 alone, the IOM reported that over 1,500 migrants died trying to cross to Europe from Morocco, with many more unaccounted for. The routes are infamous for their treacherous waters and overcrowded vessels, leading to tragic incidents. The numbers are a stark reminder of the humanitarian crisis playing out in the shadows of international borders.

The Border Crossing Crisis

Challenges at the Borders

Morocco’s borders with Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish enclaves in North Africa, are particularly contentious. Migrants often attempt to scale fences or use small boats to reach these territories. In recent years, there have been significant spikes in border crossings, with thousands attempting to breach the borders in a single day. The Moroccan authorities have responded with increased security measures, often involving the use of force, which raises human rights concerns.

Treatment and Integration

The treatment of migrants in Morocco is a mixed bag. While some NGOs and civil society organizations work tirelessly to provide humanitarian aid, access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and employment remains limited for many migrants. Integration programs exist but are often underfunded and ineffectively implemented, leaving many migrants in a state of limbo.

The EU-Morocco Immigration Cooperation

Policy Framework

The EU has engaged in various partnerships with Morocco to stem the flow of migrants attempting to reach Europe. The EU-Morocco Mobility Partnership focuses on enhancing border security, improving migration management, and providing financial assistance to Morocco. In 2020, the EU allocated **€500 million** to support Morocco’s efforts in managing migration.

Impact on Migrants

While these partnerships aim to control migration, they have raised ethical concerns regarding the treatment of migrants. Reports of pushbacks, detention, and mistreatment by Moroccan authorities have surged, with NGOs frequently highlighting human rights violations. Furthermore, the EU’s approach has been criticized for prioritizing border control over the well-being of migrants.

The Broader Impact on African and Middle Eastern Migrants

Socioeconomic Factors

The migration crisis is not just a local issue; it reflects broader socioeconomic challenges faced by migrants. Many individuals flee conflict, poverty, and persecution, hoping for a better future in Europe. The integration difficulties they encounter in Morocco often exacerbate their vulnerabilities, leading to exploitation, trafficking, and other forms of abuse.

Cultural Impact

The influx of diverse migrants also brings cultural challenges and opportunities to Moroccan society. While many locals are sympathetic to the plight of migrants, there is also a growing sense of tension. Misunderstandings and cultural differences can lead to xenophobia and societal divisions, complicating the integration process.

Final Thoughts

The immigration crisis at Morocco’s borders is a multifaceted issue requiring urgent attention and action. As migrants continue to risk their lives in search of safety and opportunity, the international community must prioritize human rights and humanitarian assistance. While Morocco plays a crucial role in managing migration flows, partnerships with the EU and other stakeholders must focus not only on border control but also on the dignity and well-being of migrants. The crisis reflects a broader narrative of human struggle, resilience, and the quest for a better life, reminding us of our shared humanity in the face of adversity.

Moving Forward

As we continue to engage with this pressing issue, individuals, organizations, and governments need to advocate for policies that protect migrants’ rights and promote their integration into society. Only through collective action can we hope to address the root causes of migration and foster a more just and equitable world.

The Challenges Facing Benin Passport Holders

by Amos Emeka | Travel and Culture

Passport Privilege: Comparing Benin’s Travel Freedom to Global Standards

As we progress through 2024, citizens of Benin continue to face significant challenges in their pursuit of international travel. Despite Benin’s rich cultural heritage and growing economic potential, its passport holders often encounter substantial barriers when seeking to explore, conduct business, or pursue educational opportunities abroad. This comprehensive analysis examines the current state of travel freedom for Beninese citizens, highlighting key issues and providing detailed visa requirement information.

The Growing Trend of Visa Restrictions

In recent years, Beninese travelers have faced increasingly stringent visa policies worldwide. This trend reflects a broader pattern of tightening immigration controls that disproportionately affect African nations. Many countries, citing security concerns or economic factors, have implemented more rigorous visa application processes for Beninese citizens.

For instance, the Schengen Area has introduced stricter requirements, including higher income thresholds, more detailed travel itineraries, and increased scrutiny of applicants’ backgrounds. Similarly, countries in North America and Asia have tightened their visa policies, often making it more challenging for the Chinese to obtain entry permits.

This trend has led to a notable decrease in the mobility of Beninese citizens, limiting opportunities for tourism, business, education, and cultural exchange. The restrictions not only affect individual travelers but also hinder Benin’s economic growth and international relations.

Economic Impact of Exploitative Visa Fees

The financial burden of visa applications presents a significant obstacle for many Beninese travelers. Visa fees for popular destinations can be exorbitant, often exceeding monthly salaries for the average Beninese. As of 2024:

Schengen visa fee: €90 (approximately 59,000 West African CFA francs)
UK visa fee: £115 (approximately 88,000 West African CFA francs)
US visa fee: $160 (approximately 96,000 West African CFA francs)

These non-refundable fees create a significant financial risk for applicants, discouraging many from even attempting to travel internationally. Additional costs for comprehensive travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds further increase the overall expense of visa applications, effectively restricting international travel to a privileged few and exacerbating social inequalities within Benin.

Expansion of Discriminatory Practices

While European countries have long been criticized for their stringent visa policies towards Beninese, recent years have seen similar practices adopted by Asian nations. Countries that were once relatively accessible to Beninese travelers have implemented more restrictive measures.

For example, several Southeast Asian countries that previously offered visa-on-arrival services to Beninese have revoked these privileges, now requiring pre-arrival visa applications with similar levels of scrutiny as Western nations. This expansion of restrictive practices further limits options for Beninese travelers, creating a sense of global isolation and reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

Statistical Evidence of Visa Rejection Rates

Visa rejection rates for Beninese applicants remain alarmingly high across many destinations. While precise statistics are often difficult to obtain, available data paints a concerning picture:

– Schengen Area: Reports indicate a visa rejection rate for Beninese applicants of approximately 35-40%, significantly higher than the global average.
– United Kingdom: Rejection rates for Beninese applicants have been reported to be around 25-30% in recent years.
– United States: While specific data for Benin is not publicly available, rejection rates for African applicants in general are notably higher than those from other continents.

These high rejection rates not only discourage potential travelers but also create a cycle of mistrust and frustration. Many Beninese feel unfairly targeted by these policies, leading to a sense of exclusion from the global community.

Experiences at Border Security Checkpoints

Even for those Beninese travelers who successfully obtain visas, challenges often continue at border security checkpoints. Many report experiences of discrimination, excessive questioning, and unwarranted scrutiny.

Common complaints include

Disproportionately long waiting times at immigration counters
Invasive questioning about personal matters unrelated to the trip
Additional security checks and luggage searches
In some cases, denial of entry despite holding valid visas

These experiences can be humiliating and stressful, tarnishing what should be exciting travel opportunities. They also reinforce negative perceptions of international travel among the Beninese population, further discouraging global engagement.

Detailed Breakdown of Visa Requirements for Benin Citizens

Benin Passport Overview

1. Passport Ranking: 81
2. Visa-Free Countries: 61
3. Visa on Arrival: 16
4. eVisa Issuance: 22
5. Traditional Visa Requirements: 101

The challenges faced by Beninese travelers reflect broader issues affecting African passport holders. Restrictive visa policies, high application fees, and discriminatory practices at borders create significant barriers to global mobility for Beninese and other African citizens.

These restrictions impact individual travelers and have far-reaching consequences for Benin’s economy, cultural exchange, and international relations. They perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to a sense of global isolation for Beninese citizens.

As we move forward, we must advocate for more equitable visa policies that balance security concerns with the right to freedom of movement. Increased dialogue between nations, streamlined visa processes, and efforts to combat discrimination at borders are all necessary steps towards a more inclusive global travel landscape.

By raising awareness of these issues, we hope to contribute to a broader conversation about travel rights and global mobility, not just for Beninese, but for all African citizens seeking to engage with the wider world.

The Challenges Facing Angolan Passport Holders

by Amos Emeka | Travel and Culture

Passport Barriers: How Angola Citizens Face International Travel Hurdles

As we enter 2024, Angolan citizens continue to face significant challenges in international travel. Despite Angola’s rich cultural heritage and growing economic importance in Africa, its passport holders often encounter formidable barriers when seeking to explore, conduct business, or pursue educational opportunities abroad. This comprehensive analysis examines the current state of travel freedom for Angolan citizens, highlighting key issues and providing detailed visa requirement information.

The Growing Trend of Visa Restrictions.

In recent years, Angolan travelers have faced increasingly stringent visa policies worldwide. This trend reflects a broader pattern of tightening immigration controls that disproportionately affect African nations. Many countries, citing security concerns or economic factors, have implemented more rigorous visa application processes for Angolan citizens.

This trend has led to a notable decrease in the mobility of Angolan citizens, limiting opportunities for tourism, business, education, and cultural exchange. The restrictions not only affect individual travelers but also hinder Angola’s economic growth and international relations.

Economic Impact of Exploitative Visa Fees.

The financial burden of visa applications presents a significant obstacle for many Angolan travelers. Visa fees for popular destinations can be exorbitant, often exceeding monthly salaries for average Angolans. As of 2024:

– Schengen visa fee: €90 (approximately 62,000 Angolan Kwanza)
– UK visa fee: £115 (approximately 95,000 Angolan Kwanza)
– US visa fee: $160 (approximately 132,000 Angolan Kwanza)

Expansion of Discriminatory Practices.

While European countries have long been criticized for their stringent visa policies towards Angolans, recent years have seen similar practices adopted by Asian nations. Countries that were once relatively accessible to Angolan travelers have implemented more restrictive measures.

For example, several Southeast Asian countries that previously offered visa-on-arrival services to Angolans have revoked these privileges, now requiring pre-arrival visa applications with similar levels of scrutiny as Western nations. This expansion of restrictive practices further limits options for Angolan travelers, creating a sense of global isolation and reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

Statistical Evidence of Visa Rejection Rates.

Visa rejection rates for Angolan applicants remain alarmingly high across many destinations. While precise statistics are often difficult to obtain, available data paints a concerning picture:

– Schengen Area: Reports indicate a visa rejection rate for Angolan applicants of approximately 40-45%, significantly higher than the global average.
– United Kingdom: Rejection rates for Angolan applicants have been reported to be around 30-35% in recent years.
– United States: While specific data for Angola is not publicly available, rejection rates for African applicants in general are notably higher than those from other continents.

These high rejection rates not only discourage potential travelers but also create a cycle of mistrust and frustration. Many Angolans feel unfairly targeted by these policies, leading to a sense of exclusion from the global community.

Experiences at Border Security Checkpoints.

Even for those Angolan travelers who successfully obtain visas, challenges often continue at border security checkpoints. Many report experiences of discrimination, excessive questioning, and unwarranted scrutiny.

Common complaints include.

Disproportionately long waiting times at immigration counters
Invasive questioning about personal matters unrelated to the trip
Additional security checks and luggage searches
In some cases, denial of entry despite holding valid visas

These experiences can be humiliating and stressful, tarnishing what should be exciting travel opportunities. They also reinforce negative perceptions of international travel among the Angolan population, further discouraging global engagement.

Detailed Breakdown of Visa Requirements for Angola Citizens:

Angola Passport Overview.

1. Passport Ranking: 86
2. Visa-Free Countries: 50
3. Visa on Arrival: 7
4. eVisa Issuance: 24
5. Traditional Visa Requirements: 119

The challenges faced by Angolan travelers reflect broader issues affecting African passport holders. Restrictive visa policies, high application fees, and discriminatory practices at borders create significant barriers to global mobility for Angolans and other African citizens.

These restrictions impact individual travelers and have far-reaching consequences for Angola’s economy, cultural exchange, and international relations. They perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to a sense of global isolation for Angolan citizens.

By raising awareness of these issues, we hope to contribute to a broader conversation about travel rights and global mobility, not just for Angolans but all African citizens seeking to engage with the wider world.

Visa Restrictions on African Passports

by Amos Emeka | Investigations, Travel and Culture

Passport Privilege: Comparing African Travel Freedom with Global Standards

The freedom to travel is often taken for granted, yet for many African citizens, it remains an elusive privilege. In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged: the increasing use of visa restrictions to curtail migration from African nations. This practice, rooted in systemic racism and discriminatory policies, has created significant barriers for African travelers, regardless of their purpose – be it tourism, business, education, or family visits.

The challenges faced by African travelers extend far beyond mere inconvenience. They represent a complex web of geopolitical, economic, and social issues that reflect deep-seated inequalities in the global system. From exorbitant visa fees to opaque application processes and invasive border checks, African citizens encounter numerous obstacles that their counterparts from other continents often do not face.

This blog post aims to shed light on the injustices and racism experienced by Africans at embassies and entry borders worldwide. We will explore the multifaceted nature of these discriminatory practices, examining their impact on individuals, economies, and international relations. By presenting comprehensive visa information for each African country, we hope to illustrate the stark disparities in global mobility and the urgent need for reform.

Key issues we will address include:

1. The growing trend of visa restrictions targeting African nations
2. The economic impact of exploitative visa application fees
3. The expansion of discriminatory practices beyond Europe to Asian countries
4. Statistical evidence of visa rejection rates for African applicants
5. The experiences of African travelers at border security checkpoints
6. A detailed breakdown of visa requirements and travel freedoms for each African country

As we delve into these topics, it’s crucial to recognize that these issues are not just abstract policies but have real, profound effects on millions of lives. They hinder cultural exchange, impede economic growth, and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. By examining these practices critically, we hope to contribute to a broader conversation about equality, dignity, and the right to free movement in our increasingly interconnected world.

Now, let’s explore the rewritten content with improved English and structure:

Chapter 1: The Rising Tide of Visa Restrictions

In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged in global migration policies: the increasing use of visa restrictions to limit travel from African nations. This phenomenon has made international travel for leisure or business nearly impossible for many African citizens unless they possess substantial financial resources. Even for those with well-funded bank accounts, systemic barriers persist, preventing African citizens from enjoying the same freedom of global movement afforded to others.

Rather than explicitly stating their reluctance to welcome African travelers, some countries have implemented visa application rules so stringent that they are virtually impossible to meet. These nations often impose exorbitant visa application fees, fully aware that these fees are non-refundable. As a result, visa rejections have become a lucrative venture, profiting from the aspirations and necessities of African travelers.

Chapter 2: The Spread of Discriminatory Practices

Historically, blatantly racist practices against African nations were primarily associated with European countries. However, in recent years, several Asian nations have adopted similar discriminatory policies, joining their European counterparts in profiting from these unjust practices.

A recent report by the Lago Collective, a think-tank focusing on migration, revealed that in 2023, the European Union generated more than €53 million ($58 million; £45 million) from rejected visa applications from African countries alone. This staggering figure underscores the scale of the issue and its economic implications.

Chapter 3: Rising Costs and Declining Opportunities

The financial burden on African travelers continues to grow. In June 2024, the price of Schengen short-term visas increased from €80 to €90 for adults. Similarly, in October 2023, the UK visa fee rose from £100 to £115. These incremental increases may seem minor, but they represent significant barriers for many African travelers, especially when combined with the high likelihood of rejection.

The Lago Collective report also highlighted a disturbing statistic: nearly one-third of Africans applying for a visa to the Schengen area were rejected, a rate significantly higher than the global average. This disparity raises serious questions about the equity and fairness of the current visa system.

Chapter 4: The Border Experience

Even when visas are approved, the challenges for African travelers do not end. Many report uncomfortable and unwelcoming experiences at border security checkpoints. African travelers often face extraordinary scrutiny at entry points, with some even being repatriated to their countries of origin – a trend that has become disturbingly commonplace in European and Asian countries.

Chapter 5: A Deeper Look at Visa Policies

This post aims to provide a comprehensive examination of visa restrictions, analyzing the number of visa-free entries and visas on arrival granted to citizens of each African country worldwide, excluding intra-African travel. We will explore passport rankings, the number of countries each African passport holder can visit without a visa, the issuance of e-Visas, and the visa requirements for African citizens.

For each African country, we will provide:

Passport Rankings
Number of countries accessible without a visa
List of countries that accept e-visas
Countries that issue visas on arrival
Countries with visa requirements

It’s important to note that these rankings and numbers can fluctuate based on changing policies and agreements. We encourage readers to click on each country for more in-depth information on the above-listed details.

The data presented here is based on the most recent available information as of April 2024. Always check with official sources for the most current visa requirements before planning travel.

Algeria
Passport Ranking: 92
Visa-Free Countries: 51
eVisa Issuance: 17
Visa on Arrival: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements: 104

Angola
Passport Ranking: 88
Visa-Free Countries: 50
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 7
Traditional Visa Requirements: 119

Benin
Passport Ranking: 81
Visa-Free Countries: 61
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 16
Traditional Visa Requirements: 101

Botswana
Passport Ranking: 67
Visa-Free Countries: 85
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 2
Traditional Visa Requirements: 94

Burkina Faso
Passport Ranking: 86
Visa-Free Countries: 57
eVisa Issuance: 15
Visa on Arrival: 21
Traditional Visa Requirements: 107

Burundi
Passport Ranking: 95
Visa-Free Countries: 47
eVisa Issuance: 11
Visa on Arrival: 25
Traditional Visa Requirements: 117

Cameroon
Passport Ranking: 93
Visa-Free Countries: 49
eVisa Issuance: 14
Visa on Arrival: 15
Traditional Visa Requirements: 122

Cape Verde
Passport Ranking: 73
Visa-Free Countries: 66
eVisa Issuance: 28
Visa on Arrival: 31
Traditional Visa Requirements: 75

Central African Republic
Passport Ranking: 98
Visa-Free Countries: 48
eVisa Issuance: 9
Visa on Arrival: 18
Traditional Visa Requirements: 125

Chad
Passport Ranking: 96
Visa-Free Countries: 49
eVisa Issuance: 12
Visa on Arrival: 14
Traditional Visa Requirements: 125

Comoros
Passport Ranking: 89
Visa-Free Countries: 52
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 24
Traditional Visa Requirements: 103

Congo
Passport Ranking: 91
Visa-Free Countries: 51
eVisa Issuance: 16
Visa on Arrival: 19
Traditional Visa Requirements: 114

Democratic Republic of Congo
Passport Ranking: 99
Visa-Free Countries: 44
eVisa Issuance: 13
Visa on Arrival: 21
Traditional Visa Requirements: 122

Djibouti
Passport Ranking: 90
Visa-Free Countries: 52
eVisa Issuance: 25
Visa on Arrival: 33
Traditional Visa Requirements: 90

Egypt
Passport Ranking: 94
Visa-Free Countries: 50
eVisa Issuance: 26
Visa on Arrival: 15
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Equatorial Guinea
Passport Ranking: 87
Visa-Free Countries: 56
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 12
Traditional Visa Requirements: 114

Eritrea
Passport Ranking: 100
Visa-Free Countries: 41
eVisa Issuance: 10
Visa on Arrival: 16
Traditional Visa Requirements: 133

Ethiopia
Passport Ranking: 97
Visa-Free Countries: 44
eVisa Issuance: 29
Visa on Arrival: 2
Traditional Visa Requirements: 125

Gabon
Passport Ranking: 82
Visa-Free Countries: 59
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 88

Gambia
Passport Ranking: 75
Visa-Free Countries: 68
eVisa Issuance: 20
Visa on Arrival: 29
Traditional Visa Requirements: 83

Ghana
Passport Ranking: 79
Visa-Free Countries: 65
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 12
Traditional Visa Requirements: 101

Guinea
Passport Ranking: 85
Visa-Free Countries: 57
eVisa Issuance: 14
Visa on Arrival: 18
Traditional Visa Requirements: 111

Guinea-Bissau
Passport Ranking: 84
Visa-Free Countries: 56
eVisa Issuance: 13
Visa on Arrival: 21
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

Ivory Coast
Passport Ranking: 83
Visa-Free Countries: 58
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements: 86

Kenya
Passport Ranking: 72
Visa-Free Countries: 72
eVisa Issuance: 26
Visa on Arrival: 31
Traditional Visa Requirements: 71

Lesotho
Passport Ranking: 74
Visa-Free Countries: 74
eVisa Issuance: 17
Visa on Arrival: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements: 81

Liberia
Passport Ranking: 93
Visa-Free Countries: 49
eVisa Issuance: 15
Visa on Arrival: 22
Traditional Visa Requirements: 114

Libya
Passport Ranking: 101
Visa-Free Countries: 38
eVisa Issuance: 11
Visa on Arrival: 5
Traditional Visa Requirements: 146

Madagascar
Passport Ranking: 86
Visa-Free Countries: 55
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 87

Malawi
Passport Ranking: 76
Visa-Free Countries: 72
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements: 81

Mali
Passport Ranking: 88
Visa-Free Countries: 54
eVisa Issuance: 16
Visa on Arrival: 20
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

Mauritania
Passport Ranking: 89
Visa-Free Countries: 54
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 15
Traditional Visa Requirements: 113

Mauritius
Passport Ranking: 33
Visa-Free Countries: 146
eVisa Issuance: 31
Visa on Arrival: 16
Traditional Visa Requirements: 7

Morocco
Passport Ranking: 80
Visa-Free Countries: 63
eVisa Issuance: 25
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 82

Mozambique
Passport Ranking: 85
Visa-Free Countries: 60
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 32
Traditional Visa Requirements: 86

African Passport Power: A Comprehensive Guide to Visa Requirements Worldwide

Namibia
Passport Ranking: 69
Visa-Free Countries: 78
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 33
Traditional Visa Requirements: 65

Niger
Passport Ranking: 91
Visa-Free Countries: 53
eVisa Issuance: 14
Visa on Arrival: 19
Traditional Visa Requirements: 114

Nigeria
Passport Ranking: 95
Visa-Free Countries: 46
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 25
Traditional Visa Requirements: 107

Rwanda
Passport Ranking: 84
Visa-Free Countries: 57
eVisa Issuance: 30
Visa on Arrival: 38
Traditional Visa Requirements: 75

Sao Tome and Principe
Passport Ranking: 71
Visa-Free Countries: 71
eVisa Issuance: 26
Visa on Arrival: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements: 68

Senegal
Passport Ranking: 82
Visa-Free Countries: 61
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 29
Traditional Visa Requirements: 89

Seychelles
Passport Ranking: 29
Visa-Free Countries: 152
eVisa Issuance: 29
Visa on Arrival: 14
Traditional Visa Requirements: 5

Sierra Leone
Passport Ranking: 90
Visa-Free Countries: 54
eVisa Issuance: 17
Visa on Arrival: 24
Traditional Visa Requirements: 105

Somalia
Passport Ranking: 103
Visa-Free Countries: 33
eVisa Issuance: 9
Visa on Arrival: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements: 130

South Africa
Passport Ranking: 54
Visa-Free Countries: 104
eVisa Issuance: 27
Visa on Arrival: 27
Traditional Visa Requirements: 42

South Sudan
Passport Ranking: 102
Visa-Free Countries: 39
eVisa Issuance: 10
Visa on Arrival: 13
Traditional Visa Requirements: 138

Sudan
Passport Ranking: 98
Visa-Free Countries: 42
eVisa Issuance: 12
Visa on Arrival: 11
Traditional Visa Requirements: 135

Swaziland (Eswatini)
Passport Ranking: 70
Visa-Free Countries: 74
eVisa Issuance: 20
Visa on Arrival: 31
Traditional Visa Requirements: 75

Tanzania
Passport Ranking: 73
Visa-Free Countries: 71
eVisa Issuance: 28
Visa on Arrival: 33
Traditional Visa Requirements: 68

Togo
Passport Ranking: 84
Visa-Free Countries: 58
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 25
Traditional Visa Requirements: 98

Tunisia
Passport Ranking: 74
Visa-Free Countries: 71
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 37
Traditional Visa Requirements: 69

Uganda
Passport Ranking: 77
Visa-Free Countries: 67
eVisa Issuance: 27
Visa on Arrival: 36
Traditional Visa Requirements: 70

Zambia
Passport Ranking: 75
Visa-Free Countries: 72
eVisa Issuance: 25
Visa on Arrival: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements: 68

Zimbabwe
Passport Ranking: 78
Visa-Free Countries: 66
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 37
Traditional Visa Requirements: 74

This list provides a comprehensive overview of visa requirements for African countries. It’s important to note that visa policies can change, so it’s always advisable to check with official sources before planning international travel.

Why Are African Travelers Facing Unprecedented Visa Barriers

by Amos Emeka | Investigations, Travel and Culture

Global Visa Discrimination: The Harsh Reality for African Passport Holders

In recent years, many countries have increasingly used visa restrictions to curb migration from African nations. This growing trend is making it nearly impossible for Africans to travel for vacations or business unless they possess substantial financial resources. Even with well-funded bank accounts, African citizens face systematic barriers that prevent them from enjoying the freedom to travel globally like others.

Instead of explicitly stating their reluctance to welcome African travelers, some countries have implemented stringent visa application rules designed to be nearly impossible to meet. These nations often resort to extortionate visa application fees, knowing that these fees are non-refundable, turning visa rejections into a profitable venture.

The Big Question: Why the Intentional Visa Rejections?

The question arises: why are more countries intentionally rejecting visas for Africans? Over the past decade, visa-on-arrival options for African passport holders have dropped by over 600%. African travelers are forced to spend exorbitantly on visa applications, making the prospect of a simple vacation outside the continent increasingly a pipe dream for lower or even middle-class Africans.

Unequal Travel Freedoms

The most frustrating aspect of this situation is the stark disparity in travel freedoms. Many of the countries imposing extreme measures on African travelers face almost no restrictions when visiting African nations. This one-sided dynamic raises the question: why are African leaders allowing this imbalance? Is it purely about the financial gains? This lack of reciprocal measures has emboldened even the smallest countries to follow the lead of major economies.

Diving Deep into Visa Restrictions

This post delves into the practice of visa restrictions, examining the number of visa-free entries and visas on arrival granted to each African country worldwide, excluding African nations. We will explore passport rankings, the number of countries African passport holders can travel to without a visa, the issuance of eVisas, and the visa requirements for African citizens, note that these rankings and numbers can fluctuate based on changing policies and agreements.
For each African country, we’ll provide:

Passport ranking (based on global mobility)
Number of visa-free destinations
Number of countries offering eVisas
Number of countries offering visas on arrival
Number of countries requiring traditional visas

Passport Rankings and Travel Freedom for African Countries

Below is a detailed analysis of each African country’s passport ranking,

Sure! Here is a comprehensive alphabetical list of all African countries with details on their passport rankings, number of visa-free destinations, eVisa offerings, visas on arrival, and traditional visa requirements based on the latest travel updates:

Algeria

Passport Ranking: 92
Visa-Free Countries: 51
eVisa Issuance: 17
Visa on Arrival: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements: 104

Angola

Passport Ranking: 96
Visa-Free Countries: 47
eVisa Issuance: 16
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 107

Benin

Passport Ranking: 78
Visa-Free Countries: 66
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 37
Traditional Visa Requirements: 113

Botswana

Passport Ranking: 60
Visa-Free Countries: 88
eVisa Issuance: 31
Visa on Arrival: 43
Traditional Visa Requirements: 101

Burkina Faso

Passport Ranking: 91
Visa-Free Countries: 53
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 32
Traditional Visa Requirements: 102

Burundi

Passport Ranking: 95
Visa-Free Countries: 50
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 106

Cabo Verde (Cape Verde)
Passport Ranking: 74
Visa-Free Countries: 70
eVisa Issuance: 25
Visa on Arrival: 39
Traditional Visa Requirements: 106

Cameroon

Passport Ranking: 93
Visa-Free Countries: 49
eVisa Issuance: 20
Visa on Arrival: 31
Traditional Visa Requirements: 108

Central African Republic

Passport Ranking:
97Visa-Free Countries: 46
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements**: 111

Chad

Passport Ranking: 98
Visa-Free Countries: 45
eVisa Issuance: 17
Visa on Arrival: 29
Traditional Visa Requirements: 112

Comoros

Passport Ranking: 84
Visa-Free Countries: 60
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements: 114

Congo (Republic of the Congo)

Passport Ranking: 89
Visa-Free Countries: 54
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 33
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

Congo, Democratic Republic of the

Passport Ranking: 94
Visa-Free Countries: 50
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Djibouti

Passport Ranking: 85
Visa-Free Countries: 59
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 112

Egypt

Passport Ranking: 93
Visa-Free Countries: 49
eVisa Issuance: 20
Visa on Arrival: 32
Traditional Visa Requirements: 108

Equatorial Guinea

Passport Ranking: 92
Visa-Free Countries: 51
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 106

Eritrea

Passport Ranking: 99
Visa-Free Countries: 44
eVisa Issuance: 16
Visa on Arrival: 29
Traditional Visa Requirements: 115

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Passport Ranking: 74
Visa-Free Countries: 69
eVisa Issuance: 26
Visa on Arrival: 40
Traditional Visa Requirements: 105

Ethiopia

Passport Ranking: 97
Visa-Free Countries: 46
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 305
Traditional Visa Requirements: 112

Gabon

Passport Ranking: 83
Visa-Free Countries: 62
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 36
Traditional Visa Requirements: 113

Gambia

Passport Ranking: 70
Visa-Free Countries: 74
eVisa Issuance: 27
Visa on Arrival: 41
Traditional Visa Requirements: 106

Ghana

Passport Ranking**: 79
Visa-Free Countries**: 64
eVisa Issuance**: 25
Visa on Arrival**: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements**: 115

Guinea

Passport Ranking: 94
Visa-Free Countries: 50
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Guinea-Bissau

Passport Ranking: 95
Visa-Free Countries*: 48
eVisa Issuance: 18
Visa on Arrival: 29
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire)

Passport Ranking: 75
Visa-Free Countries: 68
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 39
Traditional Visa Requirements: 105

Kenya

Passport Ranking: 73
Visa-Free Countries: 71
eVisa Issuance: 28
Visa on Arrival: 39
Traditional Visa Requirements: 112

Lesotho

Passport Ranking: 78
Visa-Free Countries: 66
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 37
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

Liberia

Passport Ranking: 91
Visa-Free Countries: 52
eVisa Issuance: 19
Visa on Arrival: 31
Traditional Visa Requirements: 104

Libya

Passport Ranking: 99
Visa-Free Countries: 44
eVisa Issuance*: 16
Visa on Arrival: 29
Traditional Visa Requirements: 116

Madagascar

Passport Ranking**: 86
Visa-Free Countries**: 58
eVisa Issuance**: 21
Visa on Arrival**: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements**: 112

Malawi

Passport Ranking: 87
Visa-Free Countries: 57
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 113

Mali

Passport Ranking: 93
Visa-Free Countries: 49
eVisa Issuance: 20
Visa on Arrival: 32
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Mauritania

Passport Ranking: 85
Visa-Free Countries: 59
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 111

Mauritius

Passport Ranking: 30
Visa-Free Countries: 146
eVisa Issuance: 48
Visa on Arrival: 58
Traditional Visa Requirements: 64

Morocco

Passport Ranking: 75
Visa-Free Countries: 69
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 36
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Mozambique

Passport Ranking: 83
Visa-Free Countries: 61
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival 35
Traditional Visa Requirements: 115

Namibia

Passport Ranking: 72
Visa-Free Countries: 73
eVisa Issuance: 26
Visa on Arrival: 40
Traditional Visa Requirements: 106

Niger

Passport Ranking**: 94
Visa-Free Countries**: 50
eVisa Issuance**: 19
Visa on Arrival**: 30
Traditional Visa Requirements**: 109

Nigeria

Passport Ranking: 98
Visa-Free Countries: 45
eVisa Issuance**: 21
Visa on Arrival**: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements**: 106

Rwanda

Passport Ranking: 83
Visa-Free Countries: 62
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 36
Traditional Visa Requirements*: 113

Sao Tome and Principe

Passport Ranking: 75
Visa-Free Countries: 69
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 39
Traditional Visa Requirements: 105

Senegal

Passport Ranking: 83
Visa-Free Countries: 61
eVisa Issuance: 23
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 113

Seychelles

Passport Ranking: 29
Visa-Free Countries: 147
eVisa Issuance: 48
Visa on Arrival: 58
Traditional Visa Requirements: 62

Sierra Leone

Passport Ranking: 90
Visa-Free Countries: 54
eVisa Issuance: 21
Visa on Arrival: 33
Traditional Visa Requirements: 108

Somalia

Passport Ranking: 103
Visa-Free Countries: 38
eVisa Issuance**: 15
Visa on Arrival: 28
Traditional Visa Requirements: 115

South Africa

Passport Ranking: 58
Visa-Free Countries: 102
eVisa Issuance: 30
Visa on Arrival: 36
Traditional Visa Requirements: 98

South Sudan

Passport Ranking: 102
Visa-Free Countries: 39
eVisa Issuance: 16
Visa on Arrival: 27
Traditional Visa Requirements: 115

Sudan

Passport Ranking: 103
Visa-Free Countries: 37
eVisa Issuance: 15
Visa on Arrival: 27
Traditional Visa Requirements: 116

Tanzania

Passport Ranking: 72
Visa-Free Countries: 73
eVisa Issuance: 27
Visa on Arrival: 40
Traditional Visa Requirements: 104

Togo

Passport Ranking: 88
Visa-Free Countries: 56
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 113

Tunisia

Passport Ranking: 77
Visa-Free Countries: 67
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 38
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

Uganda

Passport Ranking: 76
Visa-Free Countries: 67
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Zambia

Passport Ranking: 76
Visa-Free Countries: 67
eVisa Issuance: 22
Visa on Arrival: 34
Traditional Visa Requirements: 109

Zimbabwe

Passport Ranking: 80
Visa-Free Countries: 63
eVisa Issuance: 24
Visa on Arrival: 35
Traditional Visa Requirements: 110

African Passport Power: A Continental Overview

Strongest African passports: Typically, Seychelles, Mauritius, and South Africa rank highest in terms of global mobility.
Mid-range mobility: Countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Kenya often fall in the middle of global passport rankings.
More restricted: Many West and Central African countries face the most significant travel restrictions.

On average, African passport holders can travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival to approximately 60-70 countries worldwide including African Countries. This number varies significantly by nation, with some having access to over 100 countries and others limited to fewer than 50.

The Way Forward

Addressing the issue of visa restrictions for African travelers requires a multi-faceted approach:

1. Diplomatic efforts: African nations can work together to negotiate better travel agreements with countries worldwide.

2. Economic development: Continued growth and stability can help alleviate concerns that drive restrictive visa policies.

3. Technological advancements: Improved passport security and digital visa systems can streamline processes and build trust.

4. Public awareness: Highlighting the importance of global mobility for Africa’s development can drive policy changes.

5. Regional integration: Strengthening intra-African travel and economic ties can boost the continent’s collective bargaining power.

Conclusion

The challenges facing African travelers in the global visa landscape are complex and multifaceted. While progress has been made in some areas, significant work remains to ensure equitable access to international travel opportunities. By understanding these issues and advocating for change, we can work towards a world where an African passport opens doors rather than faces barriers.