Cameroon long-stay visa in 2026
Cameroon's long-stay visa is the entry category for an alien whose planned stay exceeds six months. Decree No. 2023/147 states that its validity may not exceed 12 months.
It is especially important for workers, independent professionals and business operators because Article 26 states that only the long-stay visa can entitle a foreign national to engage in profit-making or occupational activity or study in Cameroon.
Who may need it
The decree identifies long-stay aliens including contract workers and independent workers. Independent workers are people engaged in liberal professions or commercial, industrial, agricultural, pastoral, cultural or craft activity in Cameroon.
For a salaried worker, the long-stay application can require an employment contract endorsed by the minister in charge of employment. For an independent or business activity, it can require authorization to practise a liberal profession or promote an agricultural, pastoral, industrial, commercial, artistic or other activity where the law requires that authorization.
Online visa procedure
The 2023 decree requires Cameroon visa applications and related fee payment to begin online. The Republic of Cameroon operates the official e-Visa portal.
Do not confuse a short-stay business visit with long-term work. A short-stay visa can be issued to a tourist or businessperson, but Article 26 reserves profit-making/occupational activity to the long-stay category.
After entry
Foreign nationals residing in Cameroon must also address the residence-permit rules. The current 2025 identification decree makes a residence permit compulsory for aliens legally resident in Cameroon.
Continue to the residence permit and resident card guide.
For specific situations, compare independent worker residence, entrepreneur/business residence, and foreign employment.
Verified against Presidency and official e-Visa material on 19 September 2026.
Return to the Cameroon immigration hub, explore Africa, review our methodology, and read the legal disclaimer.
Official and supporting sources
- Presidency — Decree No. 2023/147legislation · accessed 2026-09-19
- Cameroon official e-Visa portalgovernment · accessed 2026-09-19