Orientation briefing: Côte d'Ivoire

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Overview

Alert levelAdvice against all travel to parts of the countryOfficial advice updated on 29 May 2026 (FCDO)

14open jobs

9organisations hiring

1violent events in 3 months

7deaths (estimate)

Capital: Abidjan · Region: West Africa

To prepare a mission or a new post: the essential context, region by region. This briefing does not replace your organisation's security briefing on arrival.

The country in its region

Orientation briefing: Côte d'Ivoire2 / 14

Socio-political and economic situation

Political situation

Political demonstrations sometimes take place in Abidjan and regional towns, particularly around elections. The authorities may use tear gas to disrupt unauthorised protests. Crowds can gather quickly, and roadblocks are common. It is possible that, in the event of significant unrest, internet access might be restricted.

You should:

avoid crowds and demonstrations
follow local instructions and any additional security checks or measures
monitor local media

Be alert near military barracks and military installations.

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Economy and society

32.7 MPopulation2025

54.5 %Urban population2025

$3,050GDP per capita2025

6.5 %GDP growth2025

0.1 %Inflation2025

20.8 %Extreme poverty (international line)2021

2.3 %Unemployment2025

50 %Adult literacy2021

41.4 %Internet users2024

72.9 %Access to electricity2024

Refugees and displaced people

74,630refugees hosted2025

8,177asylum seekers2025

56,744refugees and asylum seekers from the country2025

930,958stateless people2025

Indicators: World Bank (CC BY 4.0); refugees and displaced people: UNHCR Refugee Data Finder. Latest available year for each figure.

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Warnings and insurance

UK government (FCDO) travel advice. Some guidance is aimed at British nationals; always follow your organisation's instructions.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Borders with Burkina Faso and Mali

FCDO advises against all travel to:

within 40km of the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali
Northern Zanzan and Savanes provinces
Comoé National Park

This is due to an increased risk of terrorist attacks and kidnaps by terrorists based in the Sahel region, which includes Burkina Faso and Mali.

Côte d’Ivoire-Liberia border

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 20km of the border with Liberia owing to the risk of serious violence by local militias.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

see general advice for women travellers
read our guide on disability and travel abroad
see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
read about safety for solo and independent travel
see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

Follow FCDO:  

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Recent security

Organised violence events recorded by UCDP, July – September 2026.

The darker the region, the more events it saw.

Clashes between armed groups · 1

By month: July 0 · August 1 · September 0

Region	Events	Deaths	Civilians	Trend
Lagunes	1	7	0	new

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Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Côte d’Ivoire.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Côte d’Ivoire

Terrorist attacks in Côte d’Ivoire cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals such as:

beach resorts
hotels
cafés and restaurants
major sporting events

The main threat in Côte d’Ivoire is from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and other al-Qa’ida (AQ) affiliated groups, including al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). JNIM is mainly active in the northern border areas, including the Comoé National Park in the north-east, but attacks could occur anywhere, including major towns and cities such as Abidjan.

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Political situation

Political demonstrations sometimes take place in Abidjan and regional towns, particularly around elections. The authorities may use tear gas to disrupt unauthorised protests. Crowds can gather quickly, and roadblocks are common. It is possible that, in the event of significant unrest, internet access might be restricted.

You should:

avoid crowds and demonstrations
follow local instructions and any additional security checks or measures
monitor local media

Be alert near military barracks and military installations.

Personal security measures

If you’re staying for long in Côte d’Ivoire, you should seek professional security advice and regularly review personal security arrangements. You should keep a stock of food and water.

Crime

There is a risk of violent crime in Abidjan, including armed break-ins to private residences and armed hold-ups in the street. Though not common, they do occur.

Street crime

To reduce your personal risk:

use taxi apps or pre-arranged private taxis
avoid using public transport after dark
make sure your accommodation has security measures in place
keep any valuables out of sight and do not wear expensive-looking jewellery or watches
do not walk after dark
take transport to use ATMs or to exchange money at the bank

To prevent card fraud, keep your bank card in sight when paying bills.

Vehicle crime

There have been attacks by armed robbers on private cars driving on the main roads in the west of the country. You could be at risk in daylight as well as at night.

Keep your car doors locked, windows shut and all valuables out of sight while driving.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must carry your passport. Carry the original as the police will not always accept copies.

Dress code

Dress modestly when visiting religious places or buildings.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Drug trafficking and possession are illegal. If you’re found guilty, you could receive a long prison sentence or a heavy fine.

Using cameras in secure areas

It is prohibited to take photographs near sensitive installations, including:

military sites
government buildings
radio and TV stations
the Presidency building
Abidjan Airport

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is not illegal in Côte d’Ivoire, but the law does not recognise same-sex partnerships or marriage. Attitudes are less tolerant and there is no specific anti-discrimination law to protect LGBT+ people.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Côte d’Ivoire, see information on driving abroad.

You must have the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) or a local driving licence. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

In case the police stop you, always carry your UK licence and an IDP, or a local licence, plus your car registration documents and insurance card.

If you want to apply for a local driving licence, get your UK driving licence authenticated by the DVLA in the UK.

Road conditions

Driving standards in Côte d’Ivoire are poor. There is a high number of fatal road accidents and emergency services outside of Abidjan are unreliable.

Road conditions are improving in Abidjan, but driving outside the capital is much more difficult. Poorly lit roads and the risk of stray livestock make driving particularly dangerous at night. During the rainy season minor roads may become impassable.

Public transport

Take care when using public transport – driving standards and vehicle maintenance are poor.

Taxis

Taxis, including share taxis, operate in Abidjan and other cities in Côte d’Ivoire. Vehicles used as taxis tend to be old and there may be issues with the standard of maintenance. Ride-hailing apps are also available, and vehicles operating on these apps tend to be better maintained. Although no taxi can be guaranteed safe, we recommend using ride-hailing apps where possible.

Roadblocks and checkpoints

There are roadblocks and checkpoints in and around Abidjan and across the country. The Côte d’Ivoire government is currently running a campaign against bad driving and unroadworthy vehicles.

Slow down at any type of checkpoint and stay calm. Comply when the police ask you for routine paperwork such as photo ID, driving licence, insurance and vehicle registration or ownership documents, which you should carry with you in your vehicle.

Beware of unofficial roadblocks – you could be robbed or assaulted. These are sometimes set up by armed bandits known as ‘coupeurs de route’ and are mostly on secondary or quiet roads.

If the police issue you with a fine, they should also issue you with related paperwork.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Flooding

The rainy season is between May and November. Torrential rains often cause flooding, landslides and large potholes. Flash flooding has caused deaths. Monitor local weather reports.

Ocean currents

Ocean currents are very strong along the coast. Rip tides cause many swimming accidents and drownings each year. There is no lifeboat or rescue service.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

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Regional risks

This section has safety advice for regions of Côte d’Ivoire. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice.

Borders with Burkina Faso and Mali

FCDO advises against all travel to within 40km of the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali. There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks and kidnaps by terrorists based in the Sahel region, which includes Burkina Faso and Mali.

Northern provinces

FCDO also advises against all travel to:

Northern Zanzan and Savanes provinces
Comoé National Park

See Safety and security for details about terrorism risks in Côte d’Ivoire.

Côte d’Ivoire-Liberia border

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 20km of the border with Liberia. This is due to the risk of clashes between local militias and security forces. Fatal clashes have taken place in and around this area in the past. If you travel to this area, seek professional security advice locally.

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Health

Health indicators

62.1yearsLife expectancy2024

64.5per 1,000 live birthsUnder-5 mortality2024

359per 100,000 live birthsMaternal mortality2023

268per 1,000 people at riskMalaria (new cases)2024

0.17per 1,000 peoplePhysicians2023

77.2 %Basic drinking water access2024

Health risks and precautions (official advice)

Before you travel check that:

your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 185 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

check the latest vaccine recommendations for Côte d’Ivoire
see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Côte d’Ivoire, including:

Zika virus
malaria and dengue
yellow fever
Ebola virus

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Côte d’Ivoire

Medical facilities in Abidjan are of a reasonable standard but can be expensive. Emergency facilities are limited to a few major hospitals. Outside of Abidjan medical facilities are rudimentary.

Serious medical treatment could require medical evacuation back to the UK. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Côte d’Ivoire where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

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Entry and visas

Your nationality

For other nationalities:

Visa-free (23): Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Philippines, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Togo, Tunisia
Electronic travel authorisation to apply for online (148): Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, DR Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Libya, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, North Korea, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Slovakia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Korea, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Viet Nam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Passport Index Data (passportindex.org), MIT licence. Indicative, for a tourist stay; always check with the embassy or consulate. (17 February 2026)

Work visa and humanitarian permit

A tourist visa does not allow you to work: your organisation usually applies for a work or mission visa, with an invitation letter and the NGO's registration with the authorities.
It often takes several weeks: have a passport valid for at least 6 months, photos, diplomas, contract and international vaccination certificate ready.
United Nations staff travel on the laissez-passer with an official visa requested by the agency.

Detailed entry requirements (FCDO, for British travellers)

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Côte d’Ivoire’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Côte d’Ivoire set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Côte d’Ivoire, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to enter Côte d’Ivoire.

Applying for a visa

Apply and pay for an e-visa online at least 10 working days before you travel to allow time for your application to be processed. Once it is approved, you will be able to collect your visa on arrival at Abidjan airport.

If you are not an Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) national, you must hold a valid visa or have had your application for an e-visa approved before you travel.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Côte d’Ivoire, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Côte d’Ivoire guide.

Ebola Screening

As a public health measure, Côte d’Ivoire has introduced screening for travellers arriving from countries affected by the Ebola outbreak, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. You should expect to provide health information, undergo health screening, and may be monitored for up to 21 days after arrival.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Côte d’Ivoire (in French). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into Côte d’Ivoire

You can take up to 500,000 West African CFA francs in cash into Côte d’Ivoire. You must declare any foreign currency.

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Humanitarian coordination

Before you arrive, register with the coordination bodies: they share alerts, cluster meetings and useful contacts.

Global directory of NGO forums (ICVA)

Clusters: health, nutrition, protection, WASH, food security, shelter, education, logistics, emergency telecommunications and CCCM. OCHA publishes their meetings and contacts in each country where they are activated.

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Humanitarians on the ground

Organisations hiring in the country, based on open jobs on the site:

Pathfinder · 3PNUD · 3UNICEF · 2MdM · 1Ipas · 1OIM · 1SOS · 1FHI 360 · 1MSH · 1

See jobs in Côte d'Ivoire Funding ↗Tenders ↗Train in field security

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Region by region

Violence over the last 3 months, jobs and passages of official advice that mention the region.