Risk level

Safety and security

The security situation in DRC is unpredictable and could deteriorate suddenly.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent suddenly.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Don’t attempt to cross road blockades, even if they appear unattended
• Plan to have adequate water and food supplies in the event that main supply points are temporarily inaccessible
• Monitor local media for the latest information

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly:

• in the region of Beni-Butembo and Goma in North Kivu
• in the vicinity of Boga in Ituri
• towards the border with Uganda

Terrorist groups argue over control of good-trafficking routes, mining sites, and agricultural areas.

Attacks on civilians and government targets occur frequently. Attacks are directed at all persons, regardless of religious identity. Further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as restaurants, bars, coffee shops, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Large-scale events could be targeted.

• Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
• Monitor local media
• Follow the instructions of the local authorities

Curfews

Curfews can be imposed without notice.

Always comply with the directives issued by local authorities.

Eastern DRC

The situation remains challenging in the eastern part of the country due to the continued presence of armed groups and their regular clashes with the Congolese armed forces (FARCD), whether or not they are backed by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO).

The affected provinces are:

• Maniema
• North Kivu
• South Kivu
• Tanganyika
• Bas-Uele
• Haut-Uele
• Ituri

The government of DRC has difficulty imposing order throughout the territory, and crime is rampant. The United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) has identified the FARDC and the Congolese National Police (PNC) as being responsible for several human rights violations.

Provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu

Situation in the Kivus

The situation in the Kivus remains unstable. Despite the signing of peace accords and the presence of UN forces, armed conflicts continue in some areas outside provincial capitals. Members of various armed groups continue to plunder and commit violent crimes against civilians. These crimes include murder, kidnapping, armed assault and rape.

Congolese armed forces (FARDC), sometimes with the assistance of UN forces (MONUSCO), have been fighting armed groups to eradicate the threat. Since November 2021, a joint military operation between DRC and Uganda is also underway in North Kivu and Ituri provinces to fight rebels in the region. The humanitarian crisis resulting from the fighting has led to significant population movements.

In late 2021, the M23 rebel group resumed its activities in the North Kivu province. Since then, the group has launched a number of attacks against FARDC and MONUSCO forces, including near:

• Virunga National Park
• Rutshuru
• Rumangabo
• the tri-border area with Uganda and Rwanda

In response to these incidents, the FARDC and MONUSCO increased their operations in the region, including in and around Goma. Local authorities are on high alert and there is an increased military presence in the city.   

Military operations could lead to a deterioration of safety in different areas outside the two capitals, Goma and Bukavu. Although the situation in those cities is more stable, some territories are particularly dangerous, including:

 North Kivu

• Beni
• Masisi
• Rutshuru
• Walikale

South Kivu

• Kabare
• Shabunda

Avoid all travel to the Kivus. If you decide to travel despite this advisory:

• continually reassess the situation to determine whether your presence in the area is warranted
• take into account the information provided by Congolese authorities and MONUSCO, to help avoid dangerous situations
• avoid public transportation, as is the case throughout the country
• expect disruptions to local businesses and services, including airports

Tanganyika province

The province of Tanganyika, and especially Manono Territory in the northeastern part of the former province of Katanga, is the theatre of an ethnic conflict between the Pygmies and the Luba. The Mai-Mai militia periodically re-engage.

Ituri province

Despite initial progress on the disarmament of militia groups in the province of Ituri, armed confrontation continues in the northeastern part of the former province of Orientale. Outside Ituri’s main city, Bunia, public safety measures are inadequate.

Garamba National Park and border areas with South Sudan and Uganda

Despite the intensified operations by the Ugandan, Congolese and South Sudanese armed forces and the UN, the Lord’s Resistance Army continues to commit acts of violence against the civilian population. Many people have been killed and thousands have fled the region.

Points of entry from Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda

Points of entry from Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda should be avoided at all times because of continuing insecurity and lawlessness in those areas. DRC borders with Burundi and Rwanda can be closed on short notice.

The border crossings between DRC and Rwanda at Bukavu and Goma are closed from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Kasaï provinces

Since 2017, clashes have resulted in hundreds of deaths in the provinces of Kasaï, Kasaï‑Central and Kasaï‑Oriental. There is also a risk of kidnapping.

Kinshasa

You should choose a hotel in the country’s capital that is located in the municipality of Gombe, which is both the seat of government and the business sector.

Be extremely cautious outside Gombe and use only reliable means of transportation (see Public transportation).

Avoid any travel after dark.

Crime

Crime is rampant in DRC as a result of the extreme poverty and the prevailing climate of impunity.

Violent crime and pickpocketing occur in both urban and rural areas, especially after nightfall in crowded public areas and on public transportation.

Some police, or individuals posing as police personnel, stop motorists or pedestrians to extort money.

Avoid walking alone and displaying signs of wealth. Avoid getting into vehicles with strangers, even if they identify themselves as police officers. Always keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed. Do not leave the main highways and do not park in unsupervised areas. Do not stop at the scene of an accident or near a crowd.

Individuals offering discounted precious metals and diamonds have robbed foreign nationals.

ATMs

ATM fees are very high, so people often withdraw significant amounts of cash in one transaction. Thieves target foreigners who withdraw cash from an ATM. Therefore, be very cautious when withdrawing cash, even in hotels.

Checkpoints

Local authorities may increase the number of checkpoints at night, especially:

• in Gombe
• in Kintambo, Limete, Mont Ngafula, N’Djili, Ngaba and Ngaliema
• around Camp Kokolo

Carry government-issued identification (carte rose, carte grise and driver’s licence) at all times and comply with local authorities’ instructions.

If approached by an officer, ask to see his/her credentials. Criminals could try to impersonate law enforcement officers in an attempt to rob you.

Kidnappings

There is an increase in cases of kidnappings-for-ransom in the provinces of Maniema, South Kivu and North Kivu, including in Goma. Foreigners are increasingly targeted.

Be vigilant at all times and have varied and unpredictable routes and schedules.

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Road safety

In general, roads in DRC are not well maintained and are poorly lit.

Some roads may become impassable during the rainy season. You should use a four-wheel-drive vehicle, even in some parts of the capital, Kinshasa.

The road between Kinshasa and Matadi is paved, but the risk of being in an accident is very high because vehicles are poorly maintained, overcrowded and often abandoned on the poorly lit road.

Drivers are aggressive.

Local authorities may try to confiscate your identity documents in an attempt to extract a bribe. To reduce this risk, if you are stopped for an identity check, show your documents through the raised window of the vehicle.

You should also check with local authorities to see if you need to obtain prior authorization for in-country travel.

Public transportation

You should not use the public transportation system in DRC. Routes are not clearly posted, bus stops are poorly located and vehicles are often overcrowded. A large number of old vans in very poor condition are still in circulation.

Not all taxis are marked and they generally do not meet safety or roadworthiness standards. Use only officially recognized taxis.

Private transportation services can be hired at some hotels.

It is possible to rent a car with or without a driver through rental companies or travel agencies.

Rail service is unsafe and you should not travel by train. There are frequent delays because of the poor state of the rail lines and mechanical breakdowns. Trains are overcrowded and are often frequented by thieves .

A ferry links Kinshasa and Brazzaville, Republic of Congo. The service is mainly used by the local population and you should not use it. Smaller motor boats also provide service. These vessels are often overcrowded and you must line up early to secure a spot.

Official motorcades

Presidential and other official motorcades pose hazards to motorists and pedestrians.

Motorists must pull over when sirens or security forces indicate a motorcade.

Do not take photographs of motorcades using communication devices that were not acquired or registered in DRC, including cell phones and hand-held radios.

Proceed on your way only when security forces permit you to do so.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Airport access

In a crisis, N’Djili International Airport in Kinshasa may close.

The parliament building is located on the road to the airport. When demonstrations are at the site, the airport is difficult to access.

General security information

Tourism facilities are very limited in Kinshasa and virtually non-existent outside the capital. Plan your trip in advance to reduce the risk to your safety.

If you are going to Kinshasa, ensure that there is someone to meet you when you arrive at the airport.

Telephone communication is poor, including with a cell phone.

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Congolese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from DRC.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required (Students must obtain a tourist visa)
Transit visa: Required

To enter DRC, Canadians must obtain a visa from the DRC embassy in Ottawa before leaving Canada.

Visas are not available at ports of entry, and it is not possible to obtain a visa at DRC embassies outside of one’s country of residence.

A multiple-entry visa is required for foreigners who want to enter DRC more than once (this is often the case with travellers using the ferry service between Kinshasa and Brazzaville, Congo). The multiple-entry visa is available at the embassy of DRC in Ottawa or in Gombe, Kinshasa, at DRC’s immigration department (Direction générale de migration), 65 Boulevard du 30 juin (next to the Regideso building).

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Mandatory registration for foreigners residing in Kinshasa

All foreigners residing in Kinshasa must register with the local authorities and obtain a residence card within 10 days of arrival.

You may be fined if you do not comply with this requirement.

Health screening

Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease you may be subject to a quick thermal scanner screening or a health questionnaire at the airports upon boarding or disembarking a plane.

Difficulties at ports of entry

Travellers going to DRC commonly encounter difficulties at the airport and other ports of entry.

Arrival at N’Djili International Airport in Kinshasa can be chaotic. Travellers can sometimes be temporarily detained and asked by security and immigration officers to pay unofficial “special fees.”

If you report to a border post without the required documents, you risk being turned back and expelled by immigration control officers.

Currency declaration

Upon entry, all foreigners (resident and non-resident) must declare all amounts of currency exceeding the equivalent of US$10,000. Similarly, all foreign currency must be declared when leaving the country.

Departure tax

All air passengers leaving DRC must pay an airport infrastructure development tax (IDEF) in the amount of US$58 (subject to change without notice). You must obtain proof of payment of the IDEF (called a Go Pass) to be permitted to board your flight. This document is available at special counters in banks or designated institutions, and at airports.

Crossing to Brazzaville

To cross the Congo River from Kinshasa to Brazzaville, you must have an entry visa issued by the Embassy of the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville).

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in Central Africa, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Central Africa. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Insects and Illness

In some areas in Central Africa, certain insects carry and spread diseases like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, onchocerciasis, Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus and yellow fever.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas of Central Africa, like Ebola,  rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Attacks against Ebola treatment centres

Attacks against medical staff and Ebola treatment centres have occurred in the past and resulted in casualties. Attacks could occur in the future.

Medical services and facilities

New medical facilities in Kinshasa provide adequate care but, with a few exceptions, medical equipment and health-care services are rudimentary. They are inadequate throughout the rest of the country.

If you travel beyond Kinshasa, you will need air evacuation for any serious illness, injury or surgery. Such an evacuation is very expensive and often requires payment upfront.

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Identity checks

Local authorities may ask you to present your passport and visa at any time. In such situations, you are advised to remain calm and cooperative. Failure to comply could result in expulsion.

• Always carry a certified copy of your passport and visa with you
• Always keep your original passport in a secure place

Drugs

Persons convicted of the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can expect prison terms and heavy fines.

• Alcohol, drugs and travel
• Cannabis and international travel

Photographs

Taking photographs in public places, including at N’Djili International Airport in Kinshasa, is prohibited and could lead to arrest and detention.

Driving

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

Other traffic laws

Motorists and pedestrians are required to stop for the raising and the lowering of the national flag at approximately 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. every day. Policemen and/or military personnel often detain and fine people who fail to do so.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of the Democratic Republic of Congo, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Democratic Republic of Congo by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Democratic Republic of Congo to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Money

The currency is the Congolese franc (CDF).

Payments can be made in foreign currency, particularly U.S. dollars. Merchants and foreign exchange dealers require that foreign currency be in good condition (not torn) and recently issued (U.S. dollars printed after 2009), due to the amount of counterfeit currency in circulation.

Credit cards are not generally accepted, except by certain hotels, restaurants and major stores. Systematically check and keep all hotel bills.

Major hotels have ATMs from which you can obtain a cash advance with certain credit cards; however, they do not always work.

Natural disasters and climate

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from April to October in the north and from November to March in the south. Flash flooding and landslides may occur during these periods and could severely disrupt essential services.

If you are in the affected areas:

• exercise caution
• monitor local news and weather reports
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Seismic activity

DRC is located in an active seismic area.

Volcanoes

Volcanic eruptions are common in some parts of the country. Mount Nyiragongo, situated on the edge of Goma, is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The latest eruption in May 2021 forced the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people, caused significant damage to infrastructure, and resulted in many casualties.   

If you are travelling near an active volcano:

• exercise caution
• take official warnings seriously and respect exclusion zones
• monitor local media to stay up-to-date on latest developments and volcanic activity levels
• follow the advice of local authorities