Urgent-Vip Passport to 130.000 FCFA : the peak

There is now the possibility of having a biometric passport issued in 48 hours in Benin. Yes! It’s in Benin that it’s happening. The Minister of the Interior says he wants to use this service to respond to the numerous complaints and requests from certain users of the DEI. But to see it up close, it looks like, neither more nor less, to a discriminatory and very left-wing measure.

It is now possible to have a Beninese biometric passport issued in 48 hours flat. This is communication No. 008/Misp/Dc/Dac/Sgm/Dgpr/Sa dated 25 July 2025 who announces it. The Directorate of Emigration and Immigration (OF THE) offers this service called “Urgent-Vip” to users-clients who request it, informs the press release signed by the Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Alassane Séidou. According to the press release, to have this Passport issued urgently, the requester of the new service created, when making an appointment online, must complete the application form with the option “Urgent-Vip”. Only that this express request option generates a cost. He is at 130 000 FCFA against 30.000 FCFA for the standard option.

At first sight, This is good and very good news for those seeking this service.. In the old days, between enlistment and issuance of passport, the time before obtaining the precious sesame varies between six (06) even eight (08) weeks. Consequences; several people see their trips canceled or stays mortgaged. This decision therefore gives a boost to the process. But looking very closely, there are many questions that it raises. There was therefore the possibility of offering the service in a shorter time? Why, did this service take so long ? Who will perform the service “Urgent-Vip”? The same agents who process ordinary passport files? Aren't they going to drag on the issues of the poor on purpose in order to get everyone to ask for Urgent-Vip??

Passport Application, always urgent

What you need to know is that in the tropics, and particularly in countries like Benin where people travel little, it is when the opportunity to travel presents itself that the interested party or applicant runs to have their passport established. This means that the passport request has always been urgent, if not almost urgent.. While he moved heaven and earth, took out loans, Sometimes, almost on the eve of his departure, it is the passport that he faces. While the state makes it easier for him to quickly process his file, to allow him to have his travel coin, it's a time problem. Today, the deadline for 45 days or even two months is reduced to seven (07) or fifteen (15) days for the ordinary passport for 30.000 FCFA. But at 130.000 f CFA for greater speed in 48 hours. This looks like a practice whose name is being kept secret.. If service is possible in a short time, there is no need to increase fees then. This is not indicated at all.

Arnaud ACAKPO (Coll)