Published: 15 January 2026 | Last updated: 10 September 2026. This article reflects current ANRPTS e-visa rules and is reviewed quarterly.
A Mauritania e visa rejected is typically caused by an incomplete form, a non-compliant photo, or a passport with under 6 months’ validity. Since 5 January 2025, the ANRPTS portal has replaced visa on arrival. Correct the error and reapply; standard processing takes 3 to 7 business days. This independent travel portal is not affiliated with the Mauritanian government; all procedures are handled solely through anrpts.gov.mr.
After helping dozens of UK travellers reapply following a Mauritania e-visa rejection, we found the most common overlooked error is a missing yellow fever certificate. One traveller resolved their rejection within 48 hours by emailing [email protected] with the corrected document.
Common Reasons Your Mauritania e-Visa Gets Rejected
The top Mauritania e-visa rejection reasons include invalid passport scans, non-compliant biometric photos, incomplete French-language form fields, and data mismatches between the application and travel document.
- Passport validity under 6 months from planned arrival date; passport must be valid and signed.
- Passport scan errors blurry file, wrong format, poor contrast.
- Photo non-compliance non-white background, image older than 6 months, head covering unless religious.
- Incomplete form fields missing place of birth, planned arrival date, issuing country.
- Name or passport number mismatch with passport data.
- Missing yellow fever certificate required if transiting a risk country (Yellow Card).
- System glitches unexplained rejections; reapplying typically resolves them.
- Sensitive professions journalists and NGO staff require separate ministry clearance before a tourist Mauritania e-visa is approved.
- French-language portal errors the ANRPTS portal operates in French (Arabic), causing field-entry errors for English speakers.
- File-formatting issues non-standard image formats, excessive file size, or poor scan contrast trigger automated rejection.
Rejection-Reason Matrix
| Rejection Reason | Portal Symptom | How to Fix | Prevention Checklist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport validity under 6 months | Application denied | Renew passport before reapplying | 6+ months from arrival, signed page |
| Photo non-compliance | Upload rejected | Retake: white background, within 6 months | White background, no head covering (unless religious) |
| French form field errors | Missing field error | Translate labels; complete all fields | Place of birth, arrival date, issuing country |
| Missing yellow fever certificate | Document missing | Obtain Yellow Card if transiting risk country | Transit check, certificate upload |
| Name/passport number mismatch | Application denied | Re-enter exactly as printed in passport | Triple-check spelling, passport number |
| File format/size error | Upload failed | Convert to JPEG/PDF; compress below max size | File type, file size, resolution |
Document Formatting Checklist
- Photo: JPEG format, white or light background, taken within last 6 months, no head covering unless religious
- Passport scan: clear image of data pages, all corners visible, sufficient contrast
- File size: compress below portal maximum; accepted formats JPEG and PDF
- Yellow fever certificate: upload International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) if transiting a risk country
Navigating the French-Language ANRPTS Portal
The ANRPTS portal at anrpts.gov.mr operates in French (Arabic). Key field translations: “Nom” = surname, “Prenom” = first name, “Date de naissance” = date of birth, “Lieu de naissance” = place of birth, “Pays d’emission” = issuing country, “Date d’arrivee” = planned arrival date. The EUR 55 or USD 60 fee is payable in exact cash at the immigration counter on arrival, not online.
The Mauritania e-Visa Appeal Process in 2026
No formal appeal exists. Email [email protected] with your reference number and corrected documents within 14 days of rejection. Direct email is the only documented pathway; ANRPTS does not operate a public administrative review.
Identify the rejection reason
Check your notification
Correct the errors
Gather updated supporting documents
Email [email protected]
Include reference number, explanation letter, and corrected documents
Wait for a response
Estimated 7 to 14 business days; no guarantee published
The decision is binding. If the appeal fails, submit a fresh Mauritania e-visa application through the portal at anrpts.gov.mr/visa/requestvisa. The Mauritania e-visa is valid for 90 days with multiple entries; expedited processing is not available.
Sample Appeal Letter Template
Subject: Appeal – Mauritania e-Visa Application [Reference Number]
Dear ANRPTS Team, I am writing regarding my Mauritania e-visa application (Reference: [number]), submitted on [date]. The application was rejected on [date]. I believe the rejection was caused by [specific reason]. I have corrected the issue by [description of correction] and attach the updated documents below for your review. Please advise whether my application can be reconsidered or if I must submit a new request. Kind regards, [Full Name], [Passport Number], [Contact Email], [Contact Phone]
Key Contacts for Escalation
- Email: [email protected]
- Portal: anrpts.gov.mr
- Application URL: anrpts.gov.mr/visa/requestvisa
Border Refusal vs. e-Visa Rejection: What UK Travellers Must Know
A Mauritania e-visa rejection occurs online before travel; a border refusal happens at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport when a valid Mauritania e-visa holder fails entry checks.
Since 5 January 2025, visa on arrival has been discontinued. UK travellers must hold an approved Mauritania e-visa before boarding. Border refusals stem from: no printed paper copy (digital copies on phones are not accepted; a physical printout with QR code is required), wrong payment currency (exact cash in EUR or USD only; no cards, no change, no receipts), missing yellow fever certificate, or data inconsistency between the e-visa and passport.
| E-Visa Rejection | Border Refusal | |
|---|---|---|
| When | Before travel (online) | At the port of entry |
| Who | ANRPTS portal | Immigration officer |
| Can you fix it? | Correct and reapply | Return flight; reapply from abroad |
| Documents needed | Resubmit all application docs | Printed e-visa + cash + yellow fever cert |
What Happens If You’re Turned Away at Nouakchott Airport
Landing without a printed Mauritania e-visa (QR code) = entry denied. Biometric data is collected; you are directed to a holding area. The airline bears responsibility for return transport, but the passenger bears the flight cost. For escalation, contact [email protected] or your airline’s ground handling desk.
Typographical Error Protocol
Minor discrepancies on a Mauritania e-visa may be resolved at the discretion of immigration officers, but there is no guarantee. Errors in passport number or name typically require submitting a new application from abroad. Triple-check all data against your passport before finalizing.
How to Reapply After a Mauritania e-Visa Rejection
No mandatory waiting period is required after a Mauritania e visa rejected decision, but a 3 to 5 business day pause lets the ANRPTS system reset and gives time to correct documentation errors.
Identify the rejection reason
Check the rejection-reason matrix above.
Correct the data or prepare new documents
Passport scan, photo, yellow fever certificate if applicable.
Log in to anrpts.gov.mr
Use your email address and phone number.
Submit a new application
Enter corrected information and note your new reference number.
Prepare the fee in exact cash
EUR 55 or USD 60 for payment at the immigration counter upon arrival.
Processing takes 3 to 7 business days (10 to 14 peak); apply 2 to 3 weeks ahead. Passport must be valid 6+ months beyond arrival and signed. Only a printed Mauritania e-visa with QR code is accepted at the border. For broader guidance, see our Mauritania e-Visa Complete Guide. For UK government guidance, visit FCDO Travel Advice for Mauritania, which recommends a minimum passport validity of 6 months.
Quick Reapplication Checklist
- Passport: valid 6+ months beyond arrival, signed, clear scan of data pages
- Photo: JPEG format, white or light background, taken within last 6 months, no head covering unless religious
- Personal details: place of birth, planned date of arrival, passport issuing country
- Yellow fever certificate: International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) if transiting a risk country
- Accommodation proof: confirmed hotel booking or invitation letter
- Printed Mauritania e-visa copy with QR code for border presentation
Health Advisories for Mauritania in 2026
Beyond yellow fever, Mauritania is a malaria-endemic zone; prophylaxis is advised. Rabies vaccination is also recommended. Sticker visa issuance at Mauritanian embassies ceased in June 2025; the Mauritania e-visa is now the only route for UK citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if my Mauritania e-visa is rejected?
Check the rejection reason, correct the errors, and reapply through the ANRPTS portal at anrpts.gov.mr. If the reason is unclear, email [email protected] with your application reference number before resubmitting. Ensure all form fields are completed correctly to prevent another Mauritania e visa rejected notification.
Can I appeal a Mauritania e-visa rejection?
ANRPTS does not publish a formal appeal system. You may write directly to [email protected] with your reference number and corrected supporting documents. Most travellers resolve a Mauritania e-visa rejection by reapplying with corrected information rather than waiting for an appeal response, as standard processing takes 3 to 7 business days.
How long does Mauritania e-visa processing take in 2026?
Standard processing takes 3 to 7 business days, extending to 10 to 14 business days during peak travel seasons. Apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before your planned departure date. Reapplications follow the same timeline, so factor this into your travel plans.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Mauritania if my e-visa is refused?
No. Visa on arrival was discontinued on 5 January 2025. All UK citizens must hold an approved Mauritania e-visa before boarding their flight. There is no alternative to obtain a visa upon arrival at Nouakchott airport or any other port of entry.
Is there a waiting period before I can reapply after a Mauritania e-visa rejection?
No mandatory waiting period exists. However, waiting 3 to 5 business days allows the ANRPTS system to reset your application status and gives you time to correct documentation errors properly. You can log in to anrpts.gov.mr to submit a new Mauritania e-visa application once you are ready.
How do I check my Mauritania e-visa application status?
Log in to the ANRPTS portal at anrpts.gov.mr using your reference number and registered email address. Approval or rejection notifications are also sent to the email you provided during registration. Ensure you check your inbox and spam folder for updates from the system.
What are the fees for a Mauritania e-visa in 2026?
The standard fee is 55 EUR or 60 USD, payable in exact cash only at the immigration counter upon arrival. No online payment option exists. Credit and debit cards are not accepted, and no change or receipts are provided. Bring the exact amount in Euros or US Dollars.
Do UK citizens need a Mauritania e-visa in 2026?
Yes. All UK passport holders must obtain a Mauritania e-visa via the ANRPTS portal before travel. The UK government’s travel advice at gov.uk recommends a minimum passport validity of 6 months beyond your planned arrival date. Ensure your passport meets this requirement before applying.
Can I fix typos on my Mauritania e-visa at the border?
Minor discrepancies may be resolved at the discretion of immigration officers, but there is no guarantee. Errors in your passport number or name typically require submitting a new Mauritania e-visa application from abroad. It is crucial to triple-check all data against your passport before finalizing your application.
Which countries are exempt from needing a Mauritania e-visa?
Citizens of Algeria, Burkina Faso, Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Libya, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Tunisia may enter visa-free for up to 90 days. UK citizens are not exempt and must hold a valid Mauritania e-visa obtained through the ANRPTS portal prior to travel.
