Guinea-Bissau - Clearance

PRE-ARRIVAL

If you would like to visit Guinea-Bisseau it is advisable to stop in Senegal first and visit Guinea-Bissau's embassy there to arrange a visa (if required).

ARRIVAL FORMALITIES

Ports of Entry

It is possible to check in at three places - Bubaque (in the Bijagos Islands) Bolama and Cacheu (on the mainland).

Bubaque is the best place to clear in. Officials are reported to be polite and pleasant and the process efficiently handled.

Bubaque Port (approximate location): 11°18'01''N 15°49'34'' W

The Port of Bissau (capital city) is said to be unpleasant and mooring there to clear in or out is not recommended.

General Process:

On Arrival, fly the yellow flag along with the Guinea-Bissau flag.  Failure to do so can result in a fine.  If you do not have a flag, one can be obtained from the Port Captain or local stores.

The Port Captain and officials will come and inspect your boat.  You may be asked to transport them in your dinghy but if this is not possible, be polite and they will make their own arrangements.

The Port Captain will issue a Cruising Permit which lasts for one year and costs approximately 100 Euro.

Details of other costs can be found in Fees.

CLEARING OUT

Check with the Port Captain on the requirements for leaving Guinea-Bisseau

CAUTION: There are limited consular/embassy services in Guinea-Bisseau. There may be no embassy to assist if you are arrested or lose your passport. Most diplomatic services are handled via Senegal. There is a UK Consul, but there is no US Embassy. The US State Department maintains a "virtual consulate" online here.

Last updated:  November 2021