Quick answer
The Diplomatic & Official visa for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is processed on a same-day or within 24 hours basis [C21]. For same-day service, allow 2 hours for processing [C22]. Fees are waived for diplomatic and US official visas [C92]. Required documents include a completed visa application form [C23], passport-style photos [C23], an official letter from the State Department stating the purpose of the trip [C24], a yellow fever vaccination card [C25], a flight itinerary [C26], passport ID page copy and copies of previous DRC visas if applicable [C27], a valid passport with at least six months validity and two blank visa pages [C28], and a prepaid mailing envelope with tracking [C29]. Use paper clips or tape instead of staples [C30]. Processing begins only after all documents are received [C32].
Key facts
Requirements
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Requirements in detail
Passport must be valid for more than six months at the time of application.
One recent passport-size photo with your name written on the back.
The visa application form must be fully filled out and signed.
You must provide either a sponsorship guarantee from a host in DRC or proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay if not sponsored.
Documents you'll need
Diplomatic & Official
- One visa application form completed, dated, and signed in blue or black ink [C23]
- One passport-style photograph (2x2 inches) taken within the last 6 months [C23]
- Official letter from the State Department stating the purpose of the trip [C24]
- Copy of yellow fever vaccination card [C25]
- Copy of flight itinerary (not an actual booking or ticket) [C26]
- Passport ID page copy and copies of previous DRC visas (if applicable) [C27]
- A valid, signed passport with at least two blank visa pages side by side and at least six months of validity remaining [C28]
- A prepaid mailing envelope with tracking (e.g., FedEx or UPS) for return of the passport [C29]
This list adjusts automatically based on your nationality and category.
How to apply
- 1
Complete and sign the visa application form in blue or black ink [C23].
- 2
Gather all required documents: passport photo, official State Department letter, yellow fever card, flight itinerary, passport copy, valid passport, and prepaid return envelope [C23-C29].
- 3
Use paper clips or tape instead of staples to fasten documents [C30].
- 4
Submit the complete application to the Embassy. Processing starts only when all documents are received [C32].
- 5
For same-day service, allow 2 hours for processing; otherwise, expect processing within 24 hours [C21-C22].
Related visas
Sources
One numbered entry per specific claim — several entries may point to the same underlying document, each with its own locator.
- [1]
Processing time for diplomatic/official visas
Primary source · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Cross-referenced - [2]
Same-day service processing time
Primary source · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Cross-referenced - [6]
Fees waived for diplomatic and US official visas
Primary source · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Cross-referenced
This page reflects Congo, Democratic Republic of the's officially published requirements as of the dates above. It is not legal advice, and final approval is solely at the discretion of Congo, Democratic Republic of the's immigration authorities. For a case-specific compliance check against your own documents, try VisaBook free.