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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a land of immense natural beauty, home to the world’s second-largest rainforest, active volcanoes, and the legendary mountain gorillas. For citizens of Croatia, this vast African nation offers an unparalleled adventure. However, the journey begins long before you land at N'djili Airport. Navigating the legalities of entry is the first step.

Securing a DRC eVisa for Croatia citizens is now a streamlined digital process, but it requires careful attention to detail. 

Do Croatia Citizens Need a Visa for the DRC?

Yes, absolutely. The Democratic Republic of the Congo maintains a strict visa policy for almost all European nations, including Croatia. You cannot obtain a visa on arrival at the border; attempting to do so will likely result in immediate deportation or being blocked from boarding your flight.

Fortunately, the introduction of the Ordinary Flying eVisa means Croatian travelers no longer need to mail their physical passports to a distant embassy. The entire process is handled online, making it significantly easier for residents of Zagreb, Split, or Dubrovnik to plan their travels.

What is the DRC Ordinary Flying eVisa?

The Ordinary Flying eVisa is an official electronic authorization granted by the DRC government. It is specifically designed for travelers entering the country via international airports. This digital document acts as a pre-approval. Once you arrive at the immigration desk in the DRC, officers will verify your digital record and place the final entry stamp or sticker in your passport. It is primarily used for tourism, family visits, and short-term transit.

What Document Do I Need for DRC eVisa?

To avoid delays or rejections, Croatian applicants must ensure their documents are clear, legible, and in the correct format (usually PDF or JPEG). You will need:

• Passport Bio-Page: A high-resolution scan of your passport. It must have at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry and at least two blank pages.



• Recent Passport Photo: A digital photo with a white background. Ensure your face is centered and you are not wearing glasses or headgear (unless for religious reasons).



• The Motivation Letter: This is a crucial requirement. You must write a formal letter addressed to the Direction Générale de Migration (DGM). In this letter, clearly state:
  
  
  
  • The purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism, visiting friends).
  
  
  
  • Your detailed itinerary (which cities or parks you will visit).
  
  
  
  • Your entry and exit dates.
  
  
  
  • Where you will be staying.
  
  
  
  



• Flight Itinerary: A copy of your round-trip flight bookings.

How to Apply for the DRC eVisa Online?

The application for Croatian citizens is entirely web-based:

1. Fill Personal Data: Enter your full name (as it appears on your passport), date of birth, and contact information.



2. Upload Documents: Carefully upload your passport scan, photo, and the motivation letter.



3. Payment: Use a valid international credit or debit card. Ensure your card is authorized for international African transactions to prevent the payment from being flagged as fraud.



4. Download & Print: Once approved, the eVisa is sent via email. You must print this document. Digital copies on a phone are often not accepted by airline check-in counters or Congolese border agents.

How Long Does It Take for an eVisa to be Approved?

Timing is everything when planning a trip to Central Africa. The DRC immigration department offers three tiers of processing speed, and DRC eVisa Processing Time allows Croatia citizens to choose the best option based on their departure date.

Working days do not include weekends or DRC public holidays.

What is the Validity and Stay Duration in DRC for Croatia Citizens ?

For most Croatian tourists, the eVisa is issued for a stay of 30 to 90 days. It is typically a single-entry visa. This means if you leave the DRC to visit neighboring Rwanda or Congo-Brazzaville, you cannot re-enter on the same visa; you would need to apply for a new one. Always verify the "Valid Until" date on your issued eVisa to ensure your stay does not exceed the legal limit.

Can I Apply for a Business eVisa?

If your trip to the DRC involves more than just sightseeing—such as attending a conference, signing contracts, or visiting a mine—you should apply for a DRC Business eVisa.

In addition to the standard requirements, you will need:

• An Invitation Letter from a registered DRC company.



• A Business Cover Letter from your employer in Croatia.



• The legal registration documents of the Congolese company inviting you.

Can I Extend my eVisa While in the DRC?

Yes, extensions are possible but can be bureaucratic. If you find yourself needing more time to explore the Congo River or complete business deals, you must visit the DGM (Direction Générale de Migration) office. It is highly recommended to bring a local guide or fixer to assist with the paperwork, as the process is conducted primarily in French.

Can I Apply for a Group of Application for my Family to DRC ?

If you are traveling with a group of Croatian hikers or a large family, you can often process applications together. However, the system treats each person as an individual applicant. Each traveler must have their own set of documents and will receive a unique eVisa. There are no "family visas" that cover multiple people on one document.

How Can I Buy a SIM Card or eSIM in the DRC?

Staying connected is vital.

• Physical SIM: You can buy a SIM card from providers like Vodacom, Airtel, or Orange at the airport or in city centers. You will need to present your passport for registration.



• eSIM: For a more modern approach, you can purchase a DRC eSIM (like Wraptel or GigSky) before you land. This allows you to have data the moment you touch down without searching for a kiosk.

What are Popular Ride-Sharing Apps used in the DRC?

In Kinshasa, the traditional taxi system can be daunting for newcomers.

• Yango: This is the most reliable ride-hailing app currently operating in the capital. It offers transparent pricing and tracked routes.



• Private Hire: For travel outside major cities, it is highly recommended to hire a 4x4 vehicle with a local driver through a reputable agency.

 What are the Alcohol Rules in the DRC?

Alcohol is legal and widely available in the DRC. You will find local beers like Primus and Ngok everywhere. However, avoid public intoxication, and be mindful that some religious or conservative communities may abstain. Always drink responsibly and avoid driving.

What is the Best Season to Visit DRC for Tourists?

The DRC is massive, so the weather varies by region.

• For Wildlife (Virunga/Kahuzi-Biega): The dry seasons from June to September and January to February are best. This makes trekking through the jungle to see gorillas much easier.



• For Kinshasa: The dry season (June–August) is slightly cooler and more comfortable for city exploration.

What are The Immigration Rules in DRC?

1. Valid Passport



2. Physical Copy of eVisa 



3. Motivation Letter



4. Accommodation Details



5. Flight Itinerary

What are the Emergency Numbers in DRC for Tourists?

In the event of an emergency, Croatian citizens should be aware that infrastructure is limited.

• General Emergencies: 112



• Police: 117



• Medical: It is best to have the contact information for your specific travel insurance provider’s local partner. In Kinshasa, CMK (Centre Médical de Kinshasa) is a reputable facility for foreigners.

Final Thoughts for Your Journey

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is not a destination for the faint of heart, but for those who make the effort, it is life-changing. By preparing your DRC eVisa and following the local guidelines, you can focus on the incredible culture and landscapes that wait for you.