Antananarivo Entry Requirements
Visa, immigration, and customs information
Visa Requirements
Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.
Madagascar offers visa on arrival for most nationalities, with options for e-visa application or traditional visa processing. The visa policy is relatively tourist-friendly, though advance preparation is recommended.
Citizens of most countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo
Payment is typically required in euros or US dollars. Credit cards may not always be accepted, so bring cash. Visa validity starts from the date of entry, not the date of issue.
Travelers can apply online for an e-visa before departure, which streamlines the arrival process
Cost: Approximately 35-55 EUR depending on duration, plus processing fees
Print the e-visa approval and present it at immigration. This option reduces wait times at the airport and ensures visa approval before travel.
Only a very small number of countries have visa-free access
Even visa-exempt travelers must have a valid passport and meet standard entry requirements including proof of onward travel.
Travelers can apply for a visa at a Madagascar embassy or consulate before departure
This option is less common but may be preferred by those wanting visa approval before booking flights or for longer-term visas.
Arrival Process
Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, travelers will proceed through immigration, visa processing (if applicable), baggage claim, and customs. The process is generally straightforward but can take 1-2 hours depending on the number of arriving flights.
Documents to Have Ready
Tips for Smooth Entry
Customs & Duty-Free
Madagascar customs regulations are designed to protect the country's unique biodiversity and cultural heritage while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. All arriving passengers must complete a customs declaration form and may be subject to baggage inspection.
Prohibited Items
- Drugs and narcotics - Strict penalties including lengthy imprisonment apply
- Firearms and ammunition - Unless with special permit obtained in advance
- Wildlife products - Including ivory, turtle shells, and products from protected species
- Endemic plants and animals - Madagascar's unique flora and fauna are strictly protected
- Counterfeit goods - Including fake designer items and pirated media
- Pornographic material - Strictly prohibited
- Explosives and flammable materials - Except as properly declared dangerous goods
- Precious and semi-precious stones - Export restrictions apply; import may require documentation
Restricted Items
- Medications - Bring prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Quantities should be reasonable for personal use during your stay.
- Professional camera/video equipment - May require temporary import documentation if value is high. Declare to avoid issues when departing.
- Drones - Require special permits from aviation authorities. Bring documentation if you have obtained permission.
- Plants and plant products - May require phytosanitary certificates. Generally discouraged due to biosecurity concerns.
- Archaeological and cultural artifacts - Require export permits and are strictly controlled. Never attempt to take historical items out of the country.
- Precious metals - Gold and silver items may require declaration and documentation.
- Radio transmitting devices - Satellite phones and certain communications equipment may require permits.
Health Requirements
Madagascar has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on preventing the introduction of infectious diseases. Travelers should prepare well in advance of their trip.
Required Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country (includes many African and South American nations). The vaccination must be given at least 10 days before arrival and the International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented at immigration. Children under 9 months are exempt but may be subject to additional screening.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to food and water safety concerns
- Typhoid - Recommended, especially for travelers eating outside major hotels and restaurants
- Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have medical procedures or intimate contact with locals
- Rabies - Recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or those working with animals
- Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
- Polio - A booster may be recommended for some travelers
- Malaria prophylaxis - While not a vaccination, antimalarial medication is strongly recommended for most areas of Madagascar including Antananarivo surroundings
Health Insurance
While not officially required for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Madagascar are limited, and serious conditions may require evacuation to Reunion Island or South Africa. Ensure your policy covers Madagascar and includes emergency medical evacuation, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars without insurance.
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Special Situations
Additional requirements for specific circumstances.
Children must have their own passport and visa (same requirements as adults). If a child is traveling with only one parent or with someone other than their parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the travel. This letter should include both parents' contact information, travel dates, and destination. Birth certificates may also be requested. For adopted children, carry adoption papers. These requirements help prevent child abduction and are strictly enforced.
Importing pets to Madagascar requires advance planning. Dogs and cats need: (1) ISO-compliant microchip, (2) current rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel), (3) veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, (4) import permit from Madagascar's Ministry of Agriculture, (5) treatment for internal and external parasites. Pets must enter through Ivato International Airport and will be inspected upon arrival. Some airlines have restrictions on pet travel to Madagascar. Contact the Madagascar embassy for current requirements at least 2-3 months before travel. Quarantine may be required in some cases.
Tourist visas can be extended in Madagascar for up to 90 days total per visit. To extend your visa, visit the Direction Générale de la Police Nationale (Immigration Service) in Antananarivo before your current visa expires. Bring your passport, passport photos, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and extension fee (varies by duration). Apply at least one week before expiration. For stays beyond 90 days, you'll need a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) which requires different documentation including police clearance, medical certificate, and specific purpose (work, study, retirement, etc.). This must typically be arranged from outside Madagascar through an embassy.
Business travelers can enter on a tourist visa for short business trips (meetings, conferences, site visits). For longer business stays or work activities, a business visa or work permit is required. This requires an invitation letter from the Madagascar-based company, proof of business registration, and other documentation. Apply through a Madagascar embassy before travel. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and fines.
Journalists, photographers, and film crews may require special permits and accreditation from the Ministry of Communication and Culture. Apply well in advance through the Madagascar embassy in your country. Professional camera equipment should be declared at customs. Filming in certain areas (government buildings, military installations) requires specific permissions.
No special entry requirements for travelers with disabilities, but be aware that accessibility in Madagascar is limited. Ivato Airport has some accessible facilities but assistance should be arranged with your airline in advance. Bring sufficient medication and medical supplies as specialized equipment may not be available locally. Consider travel insurance that covers your specific needs.
Travelers with dual nationality including Madagascar citizenship must enter and exit Madagascar using their Madagascar passport. Using a foreign passport when you are also a Madagascar citizen can cause complications at immigration. Contact the Madagascar embassy if you have questions about dual nationality requirements.