UK citizens must obtain a mandatory electronic visa authorization from Mauritania’s ANRPTS before traveling on business. Visa on arrival was eliminated on 5 January 2025. The online pre-authorization converts into a physical biometric visa stamped at the border. Business eVisa applications are submitted entirely through the ANRPTS portal at anrpts.gov.mr.
UK business travelers apply online via ANRPTS, receiving a pre-authorization that converts to a physical visa upon arrival. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months with two blank pages.
Mauritania eVisa for Business Travelers: Eligibility & Basics
UK passport holders must obtain a mandatory Mauritania eVisa for business travelers from ANRPTS before any business trip. The visa-on-arrival option was eliminated on 5 January 2025, and no exemptions apply to British citizens. This online pre-authorization converts into a physical biometric visa at the border.
The Mauritania eVisa for business travelers is an electronic visa authorization that grants a 90-day single-entry stay within a 360-day validity period. Entry is permitted through all international ports. Applications are submitted through the ANRPTS portal at anrpts.gov.mr, with the digital citizen portal Houwiyati supporting identity verification. Issued by ANRPTS (Ministry of Interior). See GOV.UK for travel advice (content under Open Government Licence v3.0).
Visa Categories Overview
| Visa Category | Primary Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Leisure, sightseeing | Short-term visits only |
| Business | Meetings, conferences, negotiations | Requires host-company invitation letter |
| Transit | Airside or landside passage | Distinct from tourist/business categories |
| Student | Study, academic programs | Additional enrolment documents |
| Journalist | Media reporting, filming | Requires media accreditation permit |
Permitted Activities and Document Checklist
The Mauritania eVisa requirements for business travelers distinguish between permitted activities (meetings, conferences, trade fairs, contract negotiations) and prohibited ones (equipment installation, permanent employment, physical labor) that require a separate work permit.
Permitted vs Prohibited Activities
| Activity | Business eVisa sufficient? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Meetings & conferences | Yes | Core permitted use |
| Trade fairs & partner visits | Yes | Short-term engagement |
| Contract negotiations | Yes | Scope covers commercial discussions |
| Equipment installation | No | Requires a work permit |
| Permanent employment | No | Requires a work permit |
Required Documents
| Document | Specification |
|---|---|
| Passport | Min. 6 months validity, min. 2 blank pages |
| Passport photo | Biometric, white background |
| Business invitation letter | From Mauritanian host company with CNSS number and guarantor declaration |
| Flight itinerary | Confirmed booking |
| Accommodation proof | Hotel reservation or equivalent |
| Travel insurance | Valid certificate required |
How to Write a Compliant Business Invitation Letter
The host company’s invitation letter must include its CNSS registration number, a guarantor declaration, an authorized signature, and a company stamp. Recommended language: French or Arabic. The letter should state the visitor’s name, passport number, nationality, specific purpose of visit (e.g., “contract negotiation with [Company Name]”), and planned duration of stay.
How to Apply for a Mauritania Business eVisa
Business travelers submit a Mauritania eVisa application entirely online through the ANRPTS portal.
Visit anrpts.gov.mr
Interface in Arabic; use browser translation.
Select the Business visa category
Choose the correct visa type for your trip.
Fill in personal data, passport details, and the visit objective field
Provide all required information accurately.
Upload your documents
Passport scan, photo, invitation letter, flight itinerary, accommodation, and insurance.
Pay the government fee online
Verify the current amount on the portal at submission.
Receive an email confirmation
Your reference number will be included.
Wait for processing
Apply at least 2-3 weeks before departure.
Print the approved authorization
Carry it to the border alongside your passport.
Processing Times, Costs, and Border Procedures
Processing times and government fees for the Mauritania eVisa for business travelers vary and must be verified at the ANRPTS portal at the time of application. Submit your Mauritania business eVisa application at least 2 to 3 weeks before departure, avoiding Ramadan and holiday periods when processing may slow.
Common mistakes that delay or reject applications include passport validity under 6 months, non-compliant passport photos, and incorrect nationality selection on the form.
What to Expect at the Border
Upon arrival, immigration officers collect biometric data (fingerprints, photograph) before stamping the physical visa into your passport. Carry a printed copy of your approved Mauritania eVisa authorization alongside your passport.
Last updated: 10 September 2026. This is an informational guide based on publicly available sources, including ANRPTS and GOV.UK. Always verify the latest requirements on the ANRPTS portal before applying.
FAQ
Do British citizens need a visa for Mauritania?
Yes. Since 5 January 2025, UK citizens must apply for an eVisa via ANRPTS before travel. The online pre-authorization converts to a biometric visa at the border.
How long does a Mauritania business eVisa take?
Processing times vary. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before departure and avoid peak periods like Ramadan. Verify current estimates on the ANRPTS portal.
Can I extend my Mauritania business visa?
In-country extension procedures are not publicly documented. Contact ANRPTS or the Mauritanian immigration office in Nouakchott for current extension policies. Apply before your 90-day stay expires.
Is it safe to travel to Mauritania?
Check the GOV.UK travel advisory for current security guidance. Business travelers should register with their embassy upon arrival.
What happens at the Mauritania border?
At the border (e.g., Nouakchott Airport), officials collect biometrics and stamp the physical visa. Carry your printed eVisa and passport.
Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccination for Mauritania?
A Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory for travelers arriving from endemic countries. Carry your valid vaccination card.
Can I work on a Mauritania business eVisa?
No. A business eVisa covers meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and negotiations only. Paid employment or equipment installation requires a separate work permit.
Which countries are visa-exempt for Mauritania?
Most nationalities, including UK citizens, require an eVisa. The visa on arrival system was eliminated on 5 January 2025. Check the ANRPTS portal for the current list of visa-exempt countries.
