Who Needs a Work Permit in Burkina Faso
In Burkina Faso, any foreign national wishing to work in the country is required to obtain a work permit unless they fall under an exempted category. Typically, work permits are required for employees on long-term contracts or those with specialized skills that are not available in the local labor market. This applies to both expatriates and foreign nationals who are relocating to the country to fulfill particular roles within a company.
Additionally, foreign nationals who wish to work in Burkina Faso as self-employed individuals or entrepreneurs must also apply for a work permit. However, certain categories of employees, such as diplomats or representatives of international organizations, may be exempt from these requirements.
Types of Work Visas in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso offers several types of work visas depending on the nature of employment and the duration of stay. The main work visas include short-term, long-term, and temporary permits for specialized professionals. Each visa type comes with its own set of eligibility requirements and application processes.
| Visa Type | Description |
| Short-Term Work Visa | Issued for temporary employment of foreign nationals working for a short period, typically less than 6 months. |
| Long-Term Work Visa | Issued for employees who will be working in Burkina Faso for a period exceeding 6 months. This is ideal for those on long-term contracts. |
| Specialized Work Visa | For foreign professionals with specialized skills needed in Burkina Faso, typically in sectors such as education, engineering, and healthcare. |
| Entrepreneur Work Visa | Issued to foreign nationals looking to start their own business or invest in Burkina Faso's economy. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Burkina Faso
When hiring talent in Burkina Faso, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Burkina Faso. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (around 4 to 6 weeks on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Burkina Faso.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Burkina Faso
Independent professionals in Burkina Faso can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in West African CFA Franc (XOF) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Burkina Faso.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Burkina Faso
Transferring an existing team member to Burkina Faso? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Burkina Faso
To obtain a work permit in Burkina Faso, several documents and requirements must be met. Employers should ensure that they submit a complete application package, which includes both employer and employee-related documentation.
- Valid Passport: The employee must possess a passport with a minimum of six months' validity.
- Proof of Employment: A letter from the employer in Burkina Faso confirming the job offer and outlining the terms of employment.
- Education and Experience Certificates: A copy of the employee’s educational qualifications and relevant work experience to demonstrate suitability for the role.
- Health Certificates: Some workers, especially in health-sensitive sectors, may need to provide proof of a medical examination.
- Criminal Record Check: In some cases, a criminal record check from the home country or Burkina Faso may be required.
Burkina Faso Work Permit Application Process
The work permit application process in Burkina Faso involves several important steps, which need to be completed by both the employer and the foreign employee.
- Step 1: Submit the work permit application form along with all required documents to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
- Step 2: Wait for approval from the Ministry. The employer must show that they have made an effort to hire locally before applying for a foreign worker.
- Step 3: After approval, pay the necessary application fees, and submit the proof of payment to the Ministry.
- Step 4: Once approved, the employee can apply for the corresponding work visa at the Burkinabe embassy or consulate in their home country.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Burkina Faso
Employers are responsible for sponsoring work visas for their international employees. This typically involves providing proof of the job offer, submitting necessary documentation, and paying the required fees. It is crucial for employers to ensure that the foreign employee meets all visa eligibility requirements before sponsorship. In some cases, the employer may need to demonstrate that the foreign employee’s skills are necessary and that no local candidates can fill the role.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Burkina Faso
The fees for work permits and visas in Burkina Faso depend on the type of visa and the duration of stay. These fees are paid at the time of application and are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Short-Term Work Visa | €50 |
| Long-Term Work Visa | €100 |
| Specialized Work Visa | €150 |
| Entrepreneur Work Visa | €200 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Burkina Faso
The processing time for work permits and visas in Burkina Faso can vary depending on the type of visa and the completeness of the application. On average, it can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks for a work permit application to be processed and approved.
Employers should factor in additional time for obtaining supporting documents, such as medical reports or educational certificates, and plan accordingly.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Burkina Faso
Work permits in Burkina Faso are typically issued for a period of 1 to 2 years. Renewal applications must be submitted before the permit expires. Employers should allow ample time for the renewal process, which can take several weeks. If the employee’s role or contract has changed significantly, a new application may be required.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Burkina Faso
As of now, Burkina Faso does not offer a specific visa category for digital nomads. However, foreign nationals who wish to work remotely while residing in the country must apply for a regular tourist or work visa, depending on the length of stay and their employment situation.
- Requirement 1: Proof of remote work or freelance employment.
- Requirement 2: Sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
- Requirement 3: A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Burkina Faso
Employers may face several challenges when hiring in Burkina Faso, especially when bringing foreign talent into the country.
- Challenge 1: Navigating bureaucratic hurdles and delays in obtaining work permits.
- Challenge 2: Compliance with local labor laws and ensuring the proper classification of foreign workers.
- Challenge 3: Recruiting employees with specialized skills may require additional effort and paperwork.
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