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Mauritania

Discover essential migration information about Mauritania !

OVERVIEW
Discover essential information about Mauritania! 

Are you ready for an exciting journey? Mauritania, located in Northwest Africa with an area of 1.03 million km² and a coastline of about 800 km open to the Atlantic Ocean, is a destination waiting to be discovered. Whether you're looking for renowned universities for your studies, economic opportunities, or simply in search of adventure, Mauritania will not disappoint you. Its diverse and vibrant cultural heritage, shaped by the country's extensive ethnic diversity, offers a truly sensory experience. 

Are you instead looking for information on leaving Mauritania? Click here 

ABOUT MAURITANIA
About Mauritania - the country of a million of poets!

Mauritania is a country with a rare cultural and historical richness that attracts travellers curious about the country's intellectual and commercial past. Mauritania boasts a rich cultural heritage, highlighted by its ancient cities of Chinguetti and Ouadane, both recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites. But beyond this prestigious heritage, the country stands out above all for the warm welcome of its inhabitants, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. The ritual of mint tea offered with generosity perfectly symbolises this legendary hospitality, unique to this charming country. Between the golden-coloured hills and the wild beaches bordered by North African oases, Mauritania unfolds: a true treasure for travellers seeking a destination where the past and present meet in perfect symbiosis. So, get your passport ready, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable journey. Mauritania awaits you! 

 

Note: All the information below is provided by experts from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), verified by our government partners when possible and updated on an annual basis. We provide external links where relevant but cannot take responsibility for the quality of information provided by external partners. 

REQUIREMENTS
Entering Mauritania
By preparing well and staying informed, young people from across Africa and the Middle East can have a rewarding experience studying or working in Mauritania. Start preparing on WakaWell today!

Do I need a passport to enter Mauritania?

A valid passport is required to enter Mauritania.  

Do you need to know how to obtain a passport as a Mauritanian citizen? Click here

Do I need a visa to enter Mauritania?

Effective from Sunday, January 5, 2025, all travelers required to have a visa must obtain their electronic visa (e-Visa) before boarding to travel to Mauritania. 

Nationals from the following countries are exempt from visa requirements: Algeria, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Libya, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Syria, Chad, Tunisia. This list may change depending on diplomatic agreements between countries. 

Holders of diplomatic passports (except those of Italian nationality) do not need a visa to travel to Mauritania. 

Holders of service passports from Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Egypt, Yemen, Guinea-Bissau, Iran, Morocco, Syria, Turkey, and Yemen do not need a visa to travel to Mauritania. 

People residing in Mauritania and holding a valid residence card are exempt from visa requirements for their comings and goings, provided that their stay outside Mauritania does not exceed six months. 

Where and how do I apply for a Mauritanian visa?

Electronic visa applications are made exclusively on the website of the National Agency for Population and Secure Documents (ANRPTS) at the following address: http://anrpts.gov.mr/fr, by clicking on the icon “Autorisation de visa spot ”.

After submission, analysis, and validation, you will receive your electronic visa. Upon arrival at the checkpoint, the formalities for capturing your biometric data will be carried out to finalize your entry into the territory.

The expense is determined by your location and the length of your stay. 

Geographic zones Lenght of stay  MRU  Exchange rate (January 2025) 
  $ 

Monde Arabe et Afrique

30 days  1500  40  45 
90 days  2500  70  75 
3 months to 1 year  5000  135  145 
1 to 2 years  7000  190  200 
2 to 3 years  10 000  270  285 
3 years and over  20 000  540  656 

Reste du Monde 

30 days  2000  55  60 
90 days  3500  95  100 
3 months to 1 year  7000  190  200 
1 to 2 years  10 000  270  285 
2 to 3 years  15 000  405  425 
3 years and over  30 000  810  845 

Can I obtain a residence permit in Mauritania? 

All foreigners can obtain a residence permit in Mauritania, an official document that allows them to reside in the country for an extended period, exceeding the usual duration allowed by a tourist or family visit visa. This permit often grants them additional rights, such as the ability to work, study, or access education and training. You must go to the National Agency for Population Registers and Secure Documents (ANRPTS) and provide the following documents: 

For nationals of countries not requiring an entry visa: 

  • Identity card or passport with 6 months validity. 
  • Work contract or commercial register or a referent. 
  • For nationals of countries requiring an entry visa: 
  • Passport with 6 months validity. 
  • Valid visa. 
  • Work contract or commercial register or a referent. 

The fees for issuing a residence permit are 3000 MRU. The agency in charge handles the receipt of applications, verify the admissibility of application files, and proceeds with the validation of personalized residence cards. They may, if necessary, request additional information or the presentation of other documents. 

Where can foreign nationals find legal assistance in Mauritania?

Foreign nationals can find legal assistance in Mauritania through several means. First, they should contact their nearest embassy or consulate, which can provide advice and referrals to local legal services. To seek assistance from your embassy or consulate, you should: 

  1. Contact them directly: Look up the embassy or consulate’s address, call their phone number, or send an email explaining the assistance you need. Be ready to visit them in person if required. 
  2. Prepare your documents: Have relevant documents ready, such as your passport, proof of identity, and any documents related to the issue at hand. 
  3. Follow their advice: Embassy and consulate staff will provide instructions on the next steps, such as filling out forms or attending meetings. 

International organizations, such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and various NGOs, often provide legal assistance or can direct individuals to appropriate resources. Additionally, many countries have legal aid societies or pro bono legal services that might assist foreigners in need.  

For more information click here.

Requirements
USEFUL RESOURCES
Here are some resources to help you prepare for visiting Mauritania

Find resources and organizations to guide and support your journey. 

Name
About
National Agency for the Population Register and Secure Titles
National Agency for the Population Register and Secure Titles
About
Electronic visa applications can only be made via the ANRPTS website, ‘Spot visa authorisation’ tab.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad
About
This official website of the Mauritanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides essential information on Mauritania's diplomatic relations, visa procedures, and consular services available to Mauritanian citizens living abroad.
Living in Mauritania
Living in Mauritania
About
Expat.com is a platform dedicated to expatriates, with a specific section for Mauritania. This site allows users to post ads to find jobs and also lists housing offers.
World Health Organization
World Health Organization
About
This site is the World Health Organization (WHO) page dedicated to Mauritania. It provides detailed information on the country's health situation, public health campaigns, and ongoing projects to improve healthcare.
Mauritanian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture
Mauritanian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture
About
This site of the Mauritania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture provides crucial information for entrepreneurs and investors. It presents the key economic sectors of the country, business opportunities, and services offered to companies.
Nouakchott International Airport
Nouakchott International Airport
About
This site provides comprehensive information about Nouakchott International Airport. It includes details on flights, airport services, and the facilities available for travelers.
Central Bank of Mauritania
Central Bank of Mauritania
About
The website of the Central Bank of Mauritania offers information on monetary policy, banking regulation, and key economic data of the country.
BETA Conseils
BETA Conseils
About
BETA Conseils is a specialized portal for recruitment and economic information in Mauritania. The site offers job listings, advice for job seekers, as well as local economic analyses. It is mainly aimed at professionals and companies looking to recruit or get informed about the country's economic climate.
Mauritanian Electricity Company
Mauritanian Electricity Company
About
This site presents the services of the Mauritanian Electricity Company (SOMELEC), the organization responsible for the distribution of electricity in Mauritania.
Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor
About
Traveler reviews of attractions, hotels, and restaurants in Mauritania, as well as tips for activities to do during a tourist stay.
Mauritanian Agency for Investment Promotion
Mauritanian Agency for Investment Promotion
About
The Mauritanian Agency for Investment Promotion offers a comprehensive guide on how to settle in Mauritania, including business registration and document submission. The process is designed to be quick, allowing a business to be registered in less than 48 hours through a "One-Stop Shop" system. The site provides downloadable forms and step-by-step instructions for entrepreneurs.
National Agency for Population Registry and Secure Titles
National Agency for Population Registry and Secure Titles
About
Website where you will find all the necessary information to obtain the resident card. This site provides details on eligibility requirements, required documents, and the procedures to follow to facilitate your application. You will also find useful contacts for any questions or additional assistance.
EmbassyPages
EmbassyPages
About
This platform provides information on embassies and consulates in Mauritania. You will find contact details, opening hours, and the services offered by each diplomatic representation.
RIMTIC
RIMTIC
About
RIMTIC is your go-to platform for news, jobs, and opportunities in Mauritania. It connects you to the latest updates, job offers, tenders, and public announcements, making it easier to stay informed and find opportunities that match your goals.