How To Get a Chad Tourist Visa in Washington DC, USA [Tourist Visa for Chad]

Chad, or officially known as the Republic of Chad, is a landlocked country in north-central Africa. It was colonized by France from 1900-1960, the main reason why Chadians speak French fluently, and it is actually one of their official languages. 

Photo by David Stanley

Photo by David Stanley

Chad offers stunning attractions that visitors would really enjoy. Because of its rich history and culture, Chad should be a part of your travel bucket list. However, going here is not easy, all US citizens must obtain a visa first before entering this country. In this article, we listed down all the information that you need to know in able to get a Chad Tourist Visa.



Facts about Chad

Language

There are two official languages in Chad, they’re French and Arabic. Chadians often use Arabic in Business or trade situations. However, in its capital city, N'Djamena, some people speak English. But if you will travel to Chad, it is advisable to bring a translator with you as not all of them speak English.

Currency

CFA Franc / Central African CFA Franc

Religion

Muslims make up the majority of Chad’s population. Approximately 58% of Chadians are Muslims, next are Catholics for about 18%, 16% of Protestants, and the rest practices indigenous religious beliefs.

Main requirements in applying for Chad Tourist Visa

1. Valid passport (it should have at least two blank pages)

2. Completed visa application form with the required photo.

3. A proof from your employer stating the reason for your travel to Chad, clearly marking the date of departure from the US.

4. A round trip ticket or a reservation from a travel agency.

5. Invitation letter

Note: If you have supporting documents, you must submit it together with your passport. Please remember that an incomplete application will be rejected. 

You can go directly to the Embassy of Chad to submit the visa requirements and pick up your passport. (The drop-off and pick up schedule details are written below)

If you prefer to apply by mail:

If you don’t have time to go to the Embassy, you can apply by mail. Just complete the requirements above and include a prepaid return label and envelope form ( FedEx-UPS or USPS only) with a valid return address label. 

Note: Return envelops showing only the account number is no longer accepted by the Embassy as proof of pre-payment. Credit cards, checks, Money orders or cash will no longer be accepted for return mailing.

  • Please remember that all labels MUST have a tracking number. 

  • Packages without a proper pre-paid envelope and label will not be processed.

  • It’s the applicant’s responsibility to determine the exact return shipping costs.

  • All visa applicants are advised to keep incoming and outgoing tracking number for their records.

Visa Fee:

  • Single entry visa (1 month): $150.00

  • Multiple entry visa (3 months): $200.00

  • Multiple entry visa (6 months): $250.00​

Mode of Payment: Money order or Certified check ONLY to: Embassy of Chad

*No cash accepted

Processing time: The regular visa processing time is one (1) week.

Embassy in the United States

Embassy of the Republic of Chad
Address: 2401 Massachusetts Ave NW. Washington, DC 20008

Contact number:
Tel:
202-652-1312
Email: info@chadembassy.us

Operating hours:
Drop off and Pick-up:
10:00 AM - 12:45 PM and 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Mon-Thu)
Breaktime:
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 

Friday:
Drop off and Pick-up:
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
No rush service

Photo by Laura Blanchard

Frequently Asked Questions on Applying for a Chad Tourist Visa

1. When should I apply for a Chad visa?

Since the processing time takes up to 1 week, it is advisable to apply for a visa at least 1 month before your departure date.

2. Is it safe to travel to Chad?

Going to Chad may not be totally safe as violent crimes like armed robbery, carjacking, and muggings still happen in the country. Terrorism and minefields still exist. However, if you will stay in N'Djamena, its capital, it is safer compared to other places in the country. But, it is advisable to still be mindful anywhere you go. To have more ideas about the precautionary measures before going to Chad the US government provided the things that you should remember. Click here to read more about it.

3. Should I get travel insurance before heading to Chad?

The US government always advise their citizens to get travel insurance wherever they go, especially to African countries.

4. How to get there?

Since Chad is a landlocked country, there is no direct flight going there. You need a connecting flight to go to N’djamena International Airport. Visit Skyscanner to check cheaper flights.

5. What transportation should I use to go around Chad?

Taxi is one of the best ways. However, they only operate in N’djamena. But if you have an international driver’s license or permit, then you can rent a car. If you don’t have, you can take minibusses since there are no trains in Chad. These minibusses go around the capital. 

6. When is the best time to visit Chad?

The best time to visit Chad would be the first few months of the year until May as the temperature becomes cooler, up to 25ºC. Avoid traveling there from June to October because of the heavy rain that makes the area flooded and impassable. 

7. Will I have a hard time communicating with the locals?

The official languages of Chad are French and Arabic, only a few people speak English so you might have a hard time communicating with the locals. So it is advisable to have a translation app or a guide book with you to help you with your stay there.

8. Why should I visit Chad?

Chad may not be 100% safe, however, going here would be really worth it. Explore the country’s wildlife, including African Elephants, lions, buffalos, and antelopes. Not only that, but Chad also has the largest body of water in the Sahara which is Lake Chad. A lot of beautiful landmarks like the Ennedia Plateau, and the Tibesti Mountains. Be amazed by the country’s rich culture and history. With all these reasons, Chad deserves a spot in your travel bucket list. It may be challenging to go here, but definitely all worth it. So go ahead, book a flight and explore this beautiful country in Africa.

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