Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for the Central African Republic depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for the Central African RepublicEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 117
- Ambulance
- 1212
Currency
- Name
- Central African CFA franc
- Code
- XAF
- Symbol
- FCFA
Pegged to the euro. Cash-only economy outside Bangui.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type E
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
WAT (UTC+1) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
Major Airports
- BGF
Bangui M'Poko International Airport
Bangui · only international airport
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | — |
| Guides | USD 15+ per day | — |
Dress Code
What "modest dress" usually means
Shoulders and knees covered, nothing tight or sheer, no low-cut tops, no visible underwear or midriff. Loose, breathable fabrics work best in warm climates. In most places this is a social expectation rather than a legal rule — the country-specific notes below add any extras (headscarves at mosques, long trousers in temples, etc.).
- Modest dress for all public settings
- Lightweight tropical clothing year-round
Social Etiquette
- French and Sango are the official languages
- Travel outside Bangui requires permits and local escorts
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
- Photography of government and military prohibited
- A curfew may apply in Bangui and other regions
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Sango) | Bara ala | BAH-ra AH-lah |
| Thank you (Sango) | Singila | sin-GEE-la |
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