Overview

Security Status

Do not travel

Latest Travel Alert

The security situation in the Central African Republic is fluid. It can deteriorate significantly within a short period of time. Citizens of Ireland who consider it absolutely essential to remain in the country should be constantly vigilant and limit their non-essential movement within the Central African Republic. Armed militia may establish road blocks and detain persons. Adequate and continuous professional security arrangements are advised and should be regularly reviewed.

A curfew is operational between 22.00 and 05.00 and should be followed, as well as other government regulations on movement and travel that are periodically issued.

Health and travel advice issued by the local authorities in Central African Republic should be followed and monitored in the local media.

As there is no Embassy of Ireland or Consulate in the Central African Republic, we are limited in the help we can offer in an emergency. If you in the Central African Republic you should Register your details with us. If you need consular assistance, please contact Consular Assistance at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin at +353 1 408 2000

COVID-19 and Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for the Central African Republic can change at short notice, including in respect of COVID-19. It is advisable to travel with a valid negative COVID-19 test result that has been issued within 48 hours. Non-vaccinated persons entering the country may be asked to provide a PCR test result within 72 hours. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required to enter or transit the country. If transiting through a third country, you should also check the travel advice for that country too.

General Travel Advice

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against all travel to the Central African Republic at this time due to uncertain security conditions and the activities of armed groups. While the situation is more stable in Bangui, in situations of civil unrest, the road network, borders and airports may close to travellers at short notice.

Irish citizens require a visa to enter the Central African Republic.  The nearest embassy of the Central African Republic is in France at 30 rue des Perchamps, 75116 Paris.

A valid passport is required for travel to Central African Republic. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from the country. Passport cards cannot be used.

Visitors to Central African Republic are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what is going on by monitoring local news and social media.

Consult a doctor or a travel health facility at least six weeks ahead of travel to get advice on the vaccines and medicines that you may require for travel to the Central African Republic.

Citizens of Ireland can also follow the Department of Foreign Affairs on social media @dfatravelwise to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.

Emergency Assistance

The best help is often close at hand if you have problems, try talking initially to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.

Specific emergency numbers are:

• Police: 117
• Fire brigade: 118
• Ambulance: 1220

Our tips for Safe Travel:

• Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all your planned activities, as well as medical evacuation.
• Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there’s an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
• Follow us on twitter @dfatravelwise for the latest travel updates.
• Read our ‘Know Before You Go’ guide.

EU Directive on Consular Protection

Under the EU Consular Protection Directive, Irish nationals may seek assistance from the Embassy or Consulate of any other EU member state in a country where there is no Irish Embassy or permanent representation.