Comoros Visa for Indian Citizens 2026
An authoritative consular and logistics guide for Indian travelers visiting the Union of the Comoros. Detailed overview of the 45-day Visa on Arrival at Moroni Airport, cash Euro currency framework, trekking active shield volcano Mount Karthala, green sea turtle sanctuaries on Mohéli, and fragrant ylang-ylang plantations.
The Fragrant volcanic Archipelago of the Mozambique Channel
Floating in the warm, turquoise waters of the northern Mozambique Channel between Madagascar and the East African coast of Mozambique, the Union of the Comoros (*Udzima wa Komori*) is one of the world's least-visited and most enchanting island nations. Known across the globe as the "Perfume Islands" (*Îles de la Lune* or "Islands of the Moon"), the archipelago is lush with plantations of ylang-ylang trees, vanilla vines, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg that scent the tropical sea breezes.
Comprising three major islands—Grande Comore (Ngazidja), Mohéli (Mwali), and Anjouan (Nzwani)—the nation showcases dramatic volcanic topography. On Grande Comore, the active shield volcano Mount Karthala rises to 2,361 meters, boasting one of the largest active volcanic calderas on Earth (3 kilometers in diameter) surrounded by surreal black basaltic lava fields. On the serene island of Mohéli, the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Mohéli Marine Park offers pristine, crowd-free coral reefs where green sea turtles nest year-round on remote beaches like Itsamia, and humpback whales breach offshore during their southern migrations.
For Indian globetrotters, the Comoros offers a warm, hassle-free welcome: all Indian passport holders receive a generous 45-Day Visa on Arrival at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni for a modest fee in Euros, opening the door to pure, unspoiled Indian Ocean eco-adventure.
45-Day Visa on Arrival Requirements for Indians
Securing your entry clearance upon landing at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) is straightforward:
Passport Validity & Blank Pages
Your Indian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the arrival date, in undamaged condition with at least two blank visa pages.
Confirmed Return or Onward Ticket
You must present a confirmed return or onward flight itinerary departing Comoros within the 45-day permitted stay period.
Accommodation Voucher or Host Details
Present a printed reservation confirmation for a registered hotel, guesthouse, or an official invitation letter from a resident host in Moroni or Mohéli.
Pay the Visa Fee in Cash
Pay the VoA fee of €30 to €50 EUR (or approx. $35–$55 USD) in physical cash at the immigration desk. Immigration officers stamp your passport with a 45-day tourist entry permit.
Currency Dynamics: The Euro-Pegged Cash Economy
Navigating money in Comoros requires physical cash planning:
- Comorian Franc (KMF) & Euros: The national currency is the Comorian Franc, which is legally pegged to the Euro (€1 EUR = 491.96 KMF). Cash Euros (€) are universally welcomed for major expenses (hotel accommodations, domestic flights, vehicle rentals, diving trips).
- ATM & Card Limitations: International credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are virtually unusable outside of one or two luxury beachfront hotels in Moroni. Foreign ATMs are rare and unreliable. Carry all travel funds in cash Euros (€) to exchange into KMF for small purchases, local markets, and taxis.
- Yellow Fever Rule: If transiting through Kenya (Nairobi) or Ethiopia (Addis Ababa) for more than 12 hours, health inspectors will ask to see your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon landing.
Prime Natural & Ecological Destinations
The three islands of Comoros provide contrasting natural wonders:
Grande Comore & Mount Karthala
In the capital of Moroni, explore the ancient stone-carved doorways of the Arab medina and the 15th-century Badjanani Mosque (Old Friday Mosque) facing the colorful dhow harbor. Hire a mountain guide to trek through cloud forests to the rim of Mount Karthala's colossal caldera, a lunar landscape of active steaming fumaroles and black volcanic cinder cones.
Mohéli Biosphere & Anjouan Waterfalls
Take a short domestic flight or boat to tranquil Mohéli. At Itsamia, watch dozens of wild green sea turtles haul themselves ashore nightly to lay eggs. Snorkel with manta rays in the marine park, or hike into primary rainforest to spot the critically endangered Livingstone's flying fox. On Anjouan, wander steep amphitheater-like valleys terraced with fragrant ylang-ylang and dramatic mountain cascades.
Practical Travel Advisory & Frequently Asked Questions
What mobile network providers operate in Comoros?
The two telecommunications providers are Comores Telecom (Huri Money) and Telma Comores. Prepaid tourist SIM cards can be purchased in Moroni with your passport for approximately 1,000 to 2,500 KMF (~₹200 to ₹500 INR), providing 4G data coverage in main towns.
How do travelers journey between the islands?
The safest and most comfortable way to travel between Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan is via domestic scheduled flights operated by local carriers (such as R-Komor). While local fiberglass speedboats (kwassa-kwassa) operate between islands, they are often overcrowded and not recommended in rough seas.
What cultural etiquette should visitors observe?
Comoros is an Islamic society with rich Swahili, Arab, and French influences. Dress conservatively when visiting towns, villages, and markets (cover shoulders and knees). Bathing suits are appropriate on private beaches and hotel resorts. Alcohol is available only in licensed international hotels.
Where should Indian citizens turn for consular support in Comoros?
Consular affairs are overseen by the **Embassy of India in Antananarivo, Madagascar** (Tel: **+261 20 222 3334**). The **Honorary Consulate of India in Moroni, Comoros** provides emergency local assistance to visiting Indian citizens.