Guinea Basics

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The Basics


Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport or replacing document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport or replacement document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport or replacement document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport or replacing document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport or replacing document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport or replacing document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport or replacing document that is valid upon arrival in Guinea. A visa is required.

Passport/Visa Note: All foreign passengers to Guinea must hold return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination; OR, sufficient funds equal to a return airfare, and a Certificat d'Hebergement (Certificate of Accommodation). Also note that: (i) the government of Guinea does not accept wet stamp visas for entry into the country (only sticker-type visas are valid); (ii) every visitor staying longer than three months in Guinea is considered an alien resident, and has to hold an Alien Registration Card (to be obtained from the Direction de la Surete in Conakry); and (iii) a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Guinea. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Local Customs: As most Guineans are practising Muslims, conservative dress (especially for women) and judicious behaviour is essential, especially during religious festivals and celebrations. Greetings are very important in Guinea, as is respect for one's elders - offer a firm handshake and inquire about their well-being, but avoid making direct eye contact with seniors. Guineans are wary of photography, so ask permission before taking anyone's photo, and avoid taking pictures of military buildings or installations. It is also considered rude to show the soles of your feet or shoes, and to touch or move objects with your feet. Visitors should avoid using their left hand when greeting others, or when eating, as it is considered 'haram' (impure).

Duty Free: Visitors to Guinea may import up to 1,000 cigarettes/250 cigars/1kg of tobacco, one bottle of alcohol, and an amount of perfume reasonable for personal use.