General COVID-19 Travel Advisory in Operation

For the latest update please read the General COVID-19 Travel Advisory >

Overview

Security Status

Avoid non-essential travel.

Latest Travel Alert

Anyone considering travel should be aware that restrictions are subject to change at short notice, and all passengers should undertake proper research and carefully consider the necessity of their travel at this time. Citizens should be aware of the possible limitations to any consular assistance that could be provided. It is also important to check with your travel insurance provider on coverage before travel.

If considering travelling abroad, you are advised to monitor the official advice and information provided by the authorities at your destination. Information about entry restrictions applied by other countries is available below. Additional restrictions may be imposed by the country of your destination, including during your visit.

We advise against all but essential travel to the capital Ouagadougu (up to the toll booths on all roads out of the city) and advise against all travel to the rest of the country.

Travel to Burkina Faso

Wearing face masks in public places is mandatory in Burkina Faso.

If you think you have COVID-19 symptoms, you should call the government hotlines +226 01 60 89 89 / +226 52 19 53 94 / +226 70 95 93 27.

Isolation is compulsory for those who have tested positive for coronavirus, and two-week quarantine for anyone who has had physical contact with a confirmed case.

Ouagadougou International Airport and Bobo-Dioulasso Airport are operating with limited international commercial flights. Check with your travel company for the latest information. Land borders are closed.

All international arrivals in Burkina Faso will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate dated no more than 5 days prior to arrival in Burkina Faso.

Passengers without a negative PCR test dated to no more than 5 days prior to arrival in Burkina Faso will have their identity documents temporarily confiscated and will be required to take an RDT AND a PCR test at their own expense. Mandatory hotel quarantine may be required at the passenger’s expense pending on the results of the tests.

All passengers departing Burkina Faso will need to present a negative PCR test certificate dated no more than 5 days prior to departure.

You should comply with any additional screening measures put in place by the authorities and stay up to date with information from your tour operator, transport or accommodation provider on the impact on any existing travel plans.

General Travel Advice

Citizens should be aware that political instability continues in Burkina Faso, that the situation is tense and liable to change at short notice. The Department advises citizens to exercise extreme caution if in the country, stay indoors, be aware of their surroundings and monitor local media for updates. There is the strong potential for the security situation to deteriorate without warning.

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. There is a credible risk that terrorist groups based inside and outside the country may carry out attacks, such as shootings, bombings, and kidnappings. Attacks could be indiscriminate, and may target places where foreigners gather, such as hotels and restaurants in the capital. On 26 April 2021, an Irish citizen and two Spanish citizens were killed in an ambush while travelling between Fada-N’Gourma and Pama. In June 2021, 160 people were killed in an attack on Solhan in north-eastern Burkina Faso. Further attacks are possible.

You should exercise caution and avoid large political rallies and gatherings, areas of demonstrations and protests. Crowds can gather quickly and may become violent. In the event of unrest monitor local media and follow instructions and announcements from the local authorities.

Travel to Ireland