Reviewed by: Professional Visa Consultants team of BTWVisas (Madagascar Visa Experts)
Planning your dream adventure to Madagascar? From the exotic wildlife of Lemur Island to the stunning beaches of Nosy Be, the vibrant culture of Antananarivo to the unique biodiversity of the Spice Islands, Madagascar offers Indian travelers an unforgettable experience. However, before you embark on this incredible journey, understanding the Madagascar visa process is essential. This comprehensive guide provides everything Indian passport holders need to know about obtaining a Madagascar tourist visa in 2025-2026, including the latest fees, requirements, application procedures, and expert tips for a seamless travel experience.
Note: The visa requirement changes depending on the country embassy, applicant location, profession, special cases and specific requirements. So it is recommended to consult with a Visa expert to avoid visa rejection or delay.
Stay informed about the most recent developments in Madagascar's visa policy for Indian citizens.
Long-Stay Visa Reforms (Under Development):
Expected Changes for 2026:
Current Status (December 2025):
Health Recommendations:
Yes, all Indian passport holders require a valid visa to enter Madagascar for tourism purposes. Unlike some African destinations, Madagascar does not offer visa-free entry for Indian citizens. However, the good news is that Madagascar has made the visa application process incredibly convenient through multiple options, including online e-visa applications and visa-on-arrival facilities that eliminate the need for embassy visits in most cases.
Important Note: Indian citizens can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days free of charge, or pay a small administrative fee (€10) for stays of 15 days or less. This makes Madagascar one of the most accessible African destinations for Indian travelers.
Indian travelers have three primary visa options to choose from, each with distinct advantages, processing timelines, and costs. Understanding each option will help you select the best fit for your travel needs and timeline.
The visa on arrival remains the most popular option for Indian tourists visiting Madagascar. This option allows you to obtain your visa directly at Madagascar's international airports and ports upon arrival, making it incredibly convenient for spontaneous travelers or those with flexible schedules.
Key Features:
Visa on Arrival Fees for Indians (2025-2026):
Stay Duration | Fee | Approximate INR | Payment Method |
Up to 15 days | Free (€10 admin fee) | €10 (~₹850) | Cash at airport |
16-30 days | Free | ₹0 | No payment required |
31-60 days | €25 | ~₹2,100 | Cash at airport |
61-90 days | €35 | ~₹2,950 | Cash at airport |
Why Visa on Arrival is Popular:
Important Limitations:
The e-visa is the fastest and most convenient option for Indian travelers who prefer to arrange their visa before departure. Multiple authorized online service providers (such as Atlys, iVisa, VisaHQ) now offer paperless e-visa applications with guaranteed processing times.
Key Features:
E-Visa Fees for Indians (2025-2026):
Processing Speed | Provider Fee (USD) | Total Cost (USD) | Approximate INR |
Standard (7 days) | $40-$50 | $40-$50 | ₹3,360-₹4,200 |
Urgent (2-4 days) | $59-$70 | $59-$70 | ₹4,960-₹5,880 |
Super Urgent (1-3 days) | $99-$120 | $99-$120 | ₹8,320-₹10,080 |
Why E-Visa is Convenient:
Important Notes:
The traditional embassy visa through the Embassy of Madagascar in New Delhi remains an option for travelers who prefer official government processing or need longer-stay visas. This is the most formal method and suitable for business travelers or those requiring extended stays.
Key Features:
Embassy Visa Fees for Indians (2025-2026):
Visa Type | Duration | Entries | Fee (INR) | Processing Time |
Tourist Visa | 2 Months | Single | ₹5,000 | 2-3 days |
Tourist Visa | 3 Months | Single | ₹7,000 | 2-3 days |
Business Visa | 2 Months | Single | ₹7,000 | 2-3 days |
Transformable Visa | 30 Days | Single | ₹5,000-₹7,000 | 2-3 days |
Additional Embassy Costs:
Why Choose Embassy Visa:
When to Choose Embassy Visa:
The e-visa application is the fastest and most convenient option for most Indian travelers. Follow these detailed steps for a successful application.
Recommended Providers:
Important: Only use authorized providers. Verify the provider's authenticity by checking:
Before starting your application, ensure you have all necessary documents ready. Incomplete applications are a leading cause of delays and rejections.
Mandatory Documents:
Steps:
Browser Recommendations:
The application form is divided into several sections. Fill in all information accurately and carefully.
Personal Information Section:
Travel Information Section:
Contact Information Section:
Employment Information:
Important Tips:
Photo Upload:
Passport Scan Upload:
Common Upload Errors to Avoid:
Before submitting:
Declaration:
Payment Process:
Payment Confirmation:
Important Notes:
How to Check Status:
Application Status Options:
Processing Timeline:
What to Do While Waiting:
Once approved:
Download Your E-Visa:
Print Your E-Visa:
Verify E-Visa Details:
What Your E-Visa Contains:
Important: Immigration officers will scan your e-visa at entry. If there are any discrepancies, you may be denied entry.
Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget accurately for your Madagascar trip.
Visa on Arrival Fees:
Stay Duration | Fee | Approximate INR | Notes |
Up to 15 days | €10 admin fee | ~₹850 | Tourist tax only |
16-30 days | Free | ₹0 | No payment required |
31-60 days | €25 | ~₹2,100 | Payable at airport |
61-90 days | €35 | ~₹2,950 | Payable at airport |
Embassy Visa Fees:
Visa Type | Duration | Entries | Fee (INR) | Processing |
Tourist Visa | 2 Months | Single | ₹5,000 | 2-3 days |
Tourist Visa | 3 Months | Single | ₹7,000 | 2-3 days |
Business Visa | 2 Months | Single | ₹7,000 | 2-3 days |
Transformable Visa | 30 Days | Single | ₹5,000-₹7,000 | 2-3 days |
E-Visa Fees (Through Service Providers):
Processing Speed | Provider Fee (USD) | Total Cost (USD) | Approximate INR |
Standard (7 days) | $40-$50 | $40-$50 | ₹3,360-₹4,200 |
Urgent (2-4 days) | $59-$70 | $59-$70 | ₹4,960-₹5,880 |
Super Urgent (1-3 days) | $99-$120 | $99-$120 | ₹8,320-₹10,080 |
Travel to Embassy (if applying in person):
Document Preparation Costs:
Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended):
Budget Breakdown for Visa on Arrival (30 days):
Budget Breakdown for E-Visa (Standard Processing):
Budget Breakdown for Embassy Visa (2 months):
For Budget Travelers:
For Convenience Seekers:
For Last-Minute Travelers:
For Extended Stays:
Having the correct documents is crucial for visa approval. Here's a comprehensive checklist organized by document type.
Requirements:
Common Passport Issues to Avoid:
Specifications:
Photo Don'ts:
For E-Visa:
For Embassy Visa:
What to Include:
Important: You don't need to purchase non-refundable tickets before visa approval. Use:
Acceptable Documents:
What to Include:
Documents:
Minimum Balance Recommendation:
When Required:
What to Include:
What to Include:
Important: Confirmed booking is sufficient; you don't need to purchase non-refundable tickets before visa approval.
Visa on Arrival (At Airport):
✅ Valid passport (6+ months validity)
✅ 2 passport-size photos (4x6cm, white background)
✅ Return flight ticket ✅ Hotel booking confirmation
✅ Proof of sufficient funds
✅ Cash for visa fee (EUR or USD)
✅ Completed arrival/departure card (provided on flight)
E-Visa Application:
✅ Valid passport (6+ months validity)
✅ Digital passport photo (4x6cm, white background)
✅ Scanned passport bio-data page
✅ Email address
✅ Payment method (credit/debit card)
✅ Accommodation details
✅ Travel dates
Embassy Visa Application:
✅ Valid passport (6+ months validity)
✅ 2 passport-size photos (4x6cm, white background)
✅ Completed visa application form (signed)
✅ Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
✅ Travel itinerary
✅ Hotel booking confirmation
✅ Proof of financial means
✅ Return flight ticket
✅ Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)
Understanding processing timelines helps you plan your application strategically and avoid last-minute stress.
At Airport:
Peak Hours to Avoid:
Best Times to Arrive:
Standard Processing:
Urgent Processing:
Super Urgent Processing:
Factors Affecting Processing Time:
Standard Processing:
Urgent Processing:
Peak Season Considerations:
Ideal Timeline:
Minimum Timeline:
Last-Minute Applications:
Immediate Steps:
If Delayed Beyond Expected Timeline:
Contingency Planning:
2025:
2026:
Planning Tip: Avoid applying 1-2 weeks before major Madagascar holidays, as processing may be delayed.
Understanding the entry process ensures a smooth arrival in Madagascar.
Step 1: Before Landing
Step 2: Immigration Counter
For Visa on Arrival Holders:
For E-Visa Holders:
For Embassy Visa Holders:
Step 3: Customs Declaration
Items to Declare:
Duty-Free Allowance:
Prohibited Items:
International Airports:
Seaports:
Land Border Checkpoints:
Important: Ensure your visa lists the correct entry point. You must enter through the port specified on your visa.
When Leaving Madagascar:
Important Exit Considerations:
Consequences of Overstaying:
What to Do If You Need to Extend Your Stay:
While Madagascar visa approval rates are generally high for Indian citizens, rejections do occur. Understanding common reasons helps you avoid them.
Before Applying:
✅ Check passport validity (6+ months)
✅ Verify passport has 2 blank pages
✅ Get professional passport photos
✅ Prepare high-quality document scans
✅ Have all information ready before starting
✅ Get yellow fever vaccination if required
✅ Gather all supporting documents
During Application:
✅ Fill form completely and accurately
✅ Enter information exactly as in passport
✅ Double-check all dates and numbers
✅ Upload clear, properly sized documents
✅ Review entire application before submitting
✅ Keep copies of all documents
✅ Save registration code immediately
After Submission:
✅ Save application reference number
✅ Check email regularly (including spam)
✅ Monitor application status
✅ Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
✅ Don't make non-refundable bookings until approved
Immediate Steps:
Reapplication Process:
Alternative Options:
Important: Most rejections are due to simple errors that can be easily corrected. Don't be discouraged—fix the issues and reapply.
Learn from experienced travelers and visa experts to ensure a hassle-free application process.
Embassy of the Republic of Madagascar in New Delhi
Visa Submission Process:
Embassy of India in Antananarivo
Madagascar Immigration Department:
Madagascar Tourism Board:
Madagascar Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
Note: While we recommend applying directly through the official embassy, these licensed agencies can assist if you need professional help:
Important: Always verify agency credentials and read reviews before using any service. Avoid agencies with suspiciously low prices or unrealistic promises.
Emergency Services:
International Hospitals (English-speaking):
Transportation:
Translation:
Navigation:
Currency Conversion:
Travel Information:
Madagascar is calling, and with this comprehensive guide, you're now fully equipped to navigate the visa process with confidence. Whether you're planning to explore the lemur forests of Andasibe, relax on the beaches of Nosy Be, discover the unique culture of Antananarivo, or adventure through the spice islands, your Madagascar adventure is just a visa application away.
Remember These Essential Points:
✅ Visa on Arrival is Most Economical: For most Indian tourists, the visa on arrival is the most cost-effective option. It's free for stays up to 30 days and processed in 15-30 minutes at the airport.
✅ Apply Early: If using e-visa, submit your application at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date. This provides ample time for processing and any potential corrections.
✅ Document Accuracy is Critical: Ensure your passport is valid for 6+ months, has 2 blank pages, and all information in your application matches your passport exactly. Poor quality photos and document scans are leading causes of rejection.
✅ Use Official Channels: Apply directly through authorized providers or the embassy to avoid unnecessary service fees. Only use licensed agencies if you need professional assistance.
✅ Plan Your Entry and Exit: Your visa specifies entry and exit points. Ensure you enter and exit through the designated ports listed on your visa.
✅ Don't Overstay: Overstaying your visa results in significant fines (€20-€80 per day) and potential future entry bans. If you need to extend your stay, apply for an extension before your visa expires.
✅ Stay Updated: Visa policies can change. Always check the official Madagascar Embassy website for the latest information before applying.
One Month Before Departure:
✅ Check passport validity (6+ months)
✅ Verify passport has 2 blank pages
✅ Decide on visa option (on arrival, e-visa, or embassy)
✅ Gather all required documents
✅ Take professional passport photos
✅ Get yellow fever vaccination if required
Two Weeks Before Departure:
✅ Apply for e-visa (if choosing this option)
✅ Make payment to embassy (if choosing embassy visa)
✅ Save application reference number
✅ Book flights and accommodation
✅ Purchase travel insurance
✅ Inform bank about international travel
One Week Before Departure:
✅ Verify visa is approved (if e-visa)
✅ Print multiple copies of visa
✅ Confirm passport validity (6+ months)
✅ Confirm flights and accommodation
✅ Download offline maps and translation apps
✅ Save emergency contact numbers
✅ Make copies of important documents
At the Airport:
✅ Passport with 6+ months validity
✅ Printed visa (multiple copies) or cash for visa on arrival
✅ Return flight tickets
✅ Hotel booking confirmations
✅ Travel insurance documents
✅ Sufficient cash (EUR or USD recommended)
✅ Credit/debit cards
✅ Emergency contact numbers
✅ Pen for filling arrival forms
Madagascar offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, unique wildlife, rich culture, and mouth-watering cuisine—all at very affordable prices for Indian travelers. From the exotic lemurs of Andasibe to the stunning beaches of Nosy Be, from the historic charm of Antananarivo to the unique biodiversity of the Spice Islands, Madagascar promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
What Makes Madagascar Special for Indian Travelers:
🌴 Affordable: Madagascar offers excellent value for money with budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transportation
🦁 Unique Wildlife: Madagascar is home to 90% of the world's lemur species and countless other unique animals found nowhere else on Earth
🏖️ Diverse Experiences: Mountains, beaches, rainforests, deserts—Madagascar has it all
🏛️ Rich Culture: Unique blend of African, Arab, and Asian influences with vibrant local traditions
🍽️ Delicious Food: Malagasy cuisine is flavorful, healthy, and offers vegetarian options
👥 Friendly Locals: Malagasy people are known for their warmth and hospitality
🗺️ Easy to Navigate: Growing tourism infrastructure with English-speaking services in tourist areas
🛡️ Safe for Travelers: Madagascar is considered one of the safest African destinations
✈️ Direct Flights: Multiple daily flights from major Indian cities to Antananarivo
Don't let visa concerns hold you back from experiencing the magic of Madagascar. With the simplified visa on arrival process, obtaining your Madagascar visa is easier than ever. The entire process takes just 15-30 minutes at the airport, and you're ready to embark on an incredible African adventure.
Ready to Apply?
Sources:
Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Madagascar government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: December 2025
Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been researched and compiled using official government sources, Madagascar immigration regulations, and verified information from the Embassy of Madagascar in India. All fees, requirements, and procedures are accurate as of the publication date.
Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.
Q1: Is Madagascar visa-free for Indian passport holders? A: No, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Madagascar. There is currently no visa-free arrangement between India and Madagascar for tourism purposes. However, Indian citizens can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days free of charge, making it one of the most accessible African destinations.
Q2: How long does it take to get a Madagascar visa for Indians? A: Visa on arrival processing takes 15-30 minutes at the airport. E-visa processing typically takes 3-7 business days (standard), 2-4 days (urgent), or 1-3 days (super urgent). Embassy visa processing takes 2-3 working days. We recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date.
Q3: What is the cost of Madagascar visa for Indian citizens in 2025? A: Visa on arrival is free for stays up to 30 days (€10 admin fee for stays up to 15 days). E-visa costs USD 40-50 (approximately ₹3,360-₹4,200) for standard processing. Embassy visa costs ₹5,000-₹7,000 depending on duration and type.
Q4: Can I get a Madagascar visa on arrival as an Indian citizen? A: Yes, visa on arrival is available at Madagascar's international airports and seaports. You can obtain a visa for stays up to 30 days free of charge (€10 admin fee for stays up to 15 days). No advance application is required.
Q5: How many times can I enter Madagascar with a single-entry visa? A: A single-entry visa allows you to enter Madagascar only once. Once you exit Madagascar, the visa becomes invalid, even if it hasn't expired. If you plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Madagascar, you need a multiple-entry visa.
Q6: Can I apply for Madagascar e-visa from India? A: Yes, Indian citizens can apply for Madagascar e-visa from anywhere in India through authorized online service providers. The entire process is online and doesn't require visiting an embassy.
Q7: What is the maximum stay duration for Madagascar e-visa? A: The Madagascar e-visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days. The visa validity is 60 days from issuance, meaning you can enter Madagascar any time within that 60-day window.
Q8: Can I extend my Madagascar e-visa after arrival? A: Yes, you can extend your e-visa once after arrival in Madagascar for an additional 30 days. You must apply for extension at the Madagascar Immigration Department at least 7 days before your current visa expires. Extension fees apply.
Q9: What if I make a mistake on my e-visa application? A: If you notice an error after submission but before approval, contact the service provider immediately. Minor errors might be correctable. If the visa is already issued with errors, you may need to apply for a new visa with correct information and pay the fee again.
Q10: Can I enter Madagascar through any port with an e-visa? A: You can enter through any of the designated entry points (airports, seaports). However, you must enter through the specific port mentioned on your e-visa application.
Q11: Do I need a return ticket to apply for Madagascar visa? A: While not always mandatory for visa application, having a return or onward ticket is highly recommended. Immigration officers may ask to see proof of onward travel at the airport. It's best to have at least a refundable booking or itinerary.
Q12: Is travel insurance mandatory for Madagascar visa? A: Travel insurance is not mandatory for obtaining a Madagascar visa. However, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage.
Q13: Can I apply for Madagascar visa if my passport expires in 5 months? A: No, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Madagascar. If your passport expires in less than 6 months, you should renew it before applying for a Madagascar visa.
Q14: What photo size is required for Madagascar visa? A: The required photo size is 4cm x 6cm (40mm x 60mm) with a white or light-colored background. The photo must be recent (taken within the last 6 months), clear, and show your full face without glasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons).
Q15: Do children need a separate visa for Madagascar? A: Yes, all travelers including infants and children need their own visa to enter Madagascar. Each child must have their own passport and separate visa application, even if they're included in a parent's passport.
Q16: Can I apply for Madagascar visa through a travel agency? A: Yes, you can use licensed travel agencies or visa service providers to assist with your application. They charge service fees in addition to the government visa fee but provide support, document review, and faster processing options.
Q17: How do I check my Madagascar e-visa application status? A: Visit the service provider's website, click on "Check Application Status," enter your registration code and email address, then click "Check." You'll see whether your application is processing, approved, or rejected.
Q18: What happens if my Madagascar visa application is rejected? A: If rejected, you'll receive notification via email. The visa fee is non-refundable. You can reapply after correcting the issues that led to rejection. Common reasons include poor photo quality, incorrect information, or passport validity issues.
Q19: Can I apply for Madagascar visa if I have a criminal record? A: Having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you, but it may affect your application. It's best to apply through the Madagascar Embassy where you can explain your situation. Serious criminal records, especially related to drugs or violence, may result in rejection.
Q20: Do I need to submit my original passport for e-visa? A: No, for e-visa applications, you only need to upload a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page. You keep your original passport with you. Only embassy visa applications may require submitting your original passport.
Q21: Can I work in Madagascar with a tourist visa? A: No, tourist visas are strictly for tourism purposes only. Working in Madagascar requires a work permit and appropriate work visa. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and future entry bans.
Q22: What should I do if I overstay my Madagascar visa? A: Overstaying is a serious violation. You'll face fines of €20-€80 per day (approximately ₹1,700-₹6,700), possible detention, and potential ban on future entry. If you need to stay longer, apply for visa extension before your current visa expires.
Q23: Can I enter Madagascar from India via a third country? A: Yes, you can enter Madagascar from any country as long as you have a valid Madagascar visa. Your visa is valid regardless of which country you're traveling from, as long as you enter through a designated entry point.
Q24: Do I need a visa for transit through Madagascar? A: If you're transiting through Madagascar and remaining in the international transit area without passing through immigration, you don't need a visa. However, if you need to collect baggage, change terminals, or exit the airport, you'll need a valid visa.
Q25: Can I visit Madagascar without a visa if I have a US visa? A: Having a US visa or any other country's visa doesn't exempt you from Madagascar visa requirements. Indian citizens must obtain a Madagascar visa regardless of other visas they hold.
Q26: What if my name in passport is different from other documents? A: Your visa application must match your passport exactly. If there are discrepancies between your passport and other documents, use your passport name for the visa application. You may need to carry supporting documents explaining name variations.
Q27: Can I apply for multiple Madagascar visas at the same time? A: You can only have one valid Madagascar visa at a time. You cannot apply for multiple visas simultaneously. If you need to change your travel dates, you should cancel your current application (if not yet approved) and submit a new one.
Q28: What if I lose my passport with Madagascar visa? A: If you lose your passport before traveling, apply for a new passport and then apply for a new Madagascar visa (the fee is non-refundable). If you lose it while in Madagascar, report to local police, contact the Indian Embassy, get an emergency travel document, and visit Madagascar Immigration for exit clearance.
Q29: Can I convert my tourist visa to a work visa while in Madagascar? A: Generally, you cannot convert a tourist visa to a work visa while in Madagascar. You would typically need to exit Madagascar and apply for a work visa from outside the country. However, in some cases, visa conversion may be possible through your employer and immigration authorities—consult with a visa specialist.
Q30: What is the difference between single-entry and multiple-entry visa? A: Single-entry visa allows you to enter Madagascar only once. Once you exit, the visa becomes invalid. Multiple-entry visa allows you to enter and exit Madagascar multiple times during the visa validity period. Multiple-entry is useful if you plan to visit neighboring countries and return.
The answer to this question would be no, a tourist visa for Madagascar cannot be changed into a business permit. The requirements for both the permits differ and if you need to do business in the country, you can apply for a business permit separately. Also note that if you receive your new business visa within the validity of the existing tourist permit, the tourist permit will automatically get cancelled.
To get the visa extension, you must first have a legitimate reason to do so. You can apply for an extension at a Immigration office. You will have to provide copies of your passport and the printed visa or visa stamp page to the Immigration office and you will then be provided with an extension after the payment of the fee. There are certain other details to take care of as well. The extension will be granted for 90 days ahead of the expiration of the existing permit.
When your tourist visa for Madagascar has expired, you are not allowed to stay in the country anymore unless you already have an extension. If you have humanitarian reasons to stay back, you will automatically will be granted an extension. If you are caught with an expired permit, there are chances that you will be highly fined and even jailed or deported. In more serious cases, you can be banned from re-entering the country even.
No, you are not allowed to convert a tourist visa into a work permit. If you require a work visa, you need to apply for the same differently. However, when you get a work visa within the validity of your existing tourist visa, the existing visa will get cancelled once you get the work visa.
The application is to be made at least 7 to 3 days prior to the intended date of entry for an online permit. For an offline permit, you can apply at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to the intended date of travel. This shall give enough time to the officials to verify the application, conduct an interview if required and process the permit. At times, the processing may even take longer.
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