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Here you will find important tips and useful information for Benin.
in local currency
For minor expenses on arrival in country of destination
Local currency / ISO Code
West CFA franc XOF
Credit cards are rarely accepted. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
Keep exchange and transaction receipts.
Travelers are advised to take cash in euro (EUR).
Prior to leaving the country, it is advisable to spend local banknotes or to exchange them back into hard currency.
Exchanging XOF in Switzerland may cause problems and result in considerable exchange loss.
Swiss Embassy / Consulate
Cotonou, Bureau de la coopération suisse DDC et Agence consulaire
Lot. K16, Quartier Les Cocotiers
Tel.: +229 21 30 14 68 / +229 21 30 05 78 / +229 21 30 08 06
Opening hours
Banks
8.00 - 12.00 and 15.00 - 17.00 h (Mon - Fri)
Stores
9.00 - 13.00 and 15.00 - 19.00 h (Mon - Fri)
8.00 - 12.30 h (Sat)
Time difference with Switzerland
+/- 0 h; - 1 h during our summer time
National language
Official language
French
Capital
Porto-Novo and Cotonou
Country code for calling Switzerland
00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)
Voltage
220 volt / adapter recommended
Travel documents for Swiss citizens
Passport still valid 6 months or more after arrival with visa, return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds for stays up to 3 months.
Driving
International driver's license required.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).
Health situation
Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Year-round risk of malaria throughout the country.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.
Vaccination against yellow fever mandatory.
Other information
Security
Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
Take customary safety precautions and avoid nighttime driving.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Watch out for pickpockets in Contonou.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Special legal regulations
Photographing military installations and public buildings (airports, bridges etc.) is prohibited.
Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs.
Travel is the secure prepaid card for use away from home – without any annual fees. In the event of loss, the card including the balance will be replaced worldwide.
Find out more about TravelWhile every precaution has been taken to verify the information provided, Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of Country Information. Swiss Bankers therefore shall not be held liable for any damage or loss sustained in connection with any errors or omissions contained therein.
© Swiss Bankers 2025
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