Top 10 Most Visa-Restrictive African Countries in 2025

Travel restrictions remain a big issue in Africa in 2025, as some countries still have strict visa policies.

These policies limit travel and tourism and slow down economic growth and cooperation across the continent.

Efforts like the African Union’s visa-free agreements are trying to improve the situation, but changes are slow. 

The Henley Openness Index shows that several African countries are still among the least open in the world, indicating a need for policy reforms to improve regional connectivity and cooperation.

According to Henley and Partners here is a list of the top 10 least open African countries in 2025: 

Equatorial Guinea 

This small, oil-rich country is the least open in Africa, allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only three countries globally. Its strict visa policies reflect its isolated approach to foreign relations and travel, making it difficult for tourists and business travelers to enter.

Eritrea 

Known for its reclusive policies, Eritrea allows visa-free access to only four countries. The nation’s stringent control over travel and emigration mirrors its broader governance and isolation from international communities.

Libya

Amidst ongoing political instability, Libya offers slightly more openness, with visa-free access to five countries. However, security concerns and administrative challenges continue to restrict its openness on the global stage.

South Sudan 

As one of the world’s newest countries, South Sudan is still facing significant challenges in governance and security, which is reflected in its travel policies allowing visa-free access to six countries alongside Algeria.

Algeria

Sharing the same rank as South Sudan, Algeria permits visa-free entry from six countries. Despite its size and resources, bureaucratic hurdles and security policies keep its borders relatively closed.

Sudan

With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to eight countries, Sudan’s international openness is limited. Ongoing conflicts and economic sanctions further complicate its global interactions.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Tied with Sudan, the DRC also allows access to eight countries without stringent visa requirements. The vast country faces enormous challenges including instability and infrastructure issues that affect its openness.

Cameroon 

Matching DRC and Sudan, Cameroon’s visa policies also allow for relatively restricted access, reflecting its cautious approach to international travel and security concerns.

Gabon

Slightly more open, Gabon allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 12 countries. Its more relaxed policies aim to encourage tourism and business but are still limited compared to global standards.

Liberia 

At the bottom of this list, Liberia offers the most relaxed entry requirements among these countries, with 15 countries allowed easier access. Despite this, it is still among the least open globally, reflecting the region’s overall trend towards restrictive travel policies.