We work hard to keep this guide accurate. If you spot outdated info, email updates to contact@desinri.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Short Description:<\/strong> A complete guide to Burkina Faso\u2019s medical treatment visa route, including eligibility, documents, fees, process, risks, and official verification links.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Last Verified On:<\/strong> 2026-03-21<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Burkina Faso Medical Treatment Visa is a purpose-based entry visa<\/strong> used by foreign nationals who need to enter Burkina Faso specifically to receive medical care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In practice, Burkina Faso does not always publish a highly granular public visa taxonomy that clearly separates every visitor sub-type on a single central page. In many cases, the medical route appears to be handled as a short-stay visa issued for medical reasons<\/strong>, rather than a completely separate long-term residence class with its own fully published standalone legal framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That means this route is best understood as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n It exists to let foreign nationals lawfully enter Burkina Faso where the primary reason for travel is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is meant for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Burkina Faso generally regulates foreign entry through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The medical visa fits into the temporary, purpose-specific entry<\/strong> side of that system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on the applicant\u2019s location and the Burkinab\u00e8 diplomatic post involved, it may be handled as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because Burkina Faso\u2019s public-facing systems and embassy practices may differ by country, applicants should verify the format with the specific embassy or official visa portal serving them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Publicly used naming may vary. You may see references such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Warning:<\/strong> A Burkinab\u00e8 embassy may not label it \u201cMedical Treatment Visa\u201d as a separate menu item even when medical travel is accepted as a recognized visa purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This visa is generally suitable for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n This visa is not<\/strong> the right route for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do not use a medical visa just because you also plan to visit places. If the main purpose is tourism, apply as a tourist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Medical travel is not a substitute for a business visa, even if you will briefly meet someone while in country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A medical visa does not authorize employment or job search activity as its core purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not for university or training enrollment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They may accompany the patient, but they usually need separate visa files. Their status is typically derivative or visitor-based, not a medical-patient status in their own right unless they are also patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is the wrong route unless the true purpose of entry is medical treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Official passport holders may be subject to special arrangements and should verify through official\/government channels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The core permitted use is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n This may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n A medical visa is generally not<\/strong> for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if your income comes from abroad, a short-stay medical visa is not designed for work activity. Burkina Faso does not appear to publish a medical-visa remote-work allowance. Treat it as not permitted unless officially confirmed<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An accompanying relative may be tolerated or separately issued a visa, but this does not automatically create a legal right to remain long-term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the trip is genuinely treatment-led and tourism is only incidental, a medical-purpose visa may still be appropriate. But if leisure dominates, use the correct visitor category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Public official materials do not always present a single standardized English title for this route. It is best described as a:<\/p>\n\n\n\n No consistently published public subclass code was clearly available in official sources reviewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A practical long-form label is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n No publicly confirmed official internal streams were clearly published for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If a specific embassy uses these distinctions, it should be treated as post-specific practice<\/strong>, not necessarily a countrywide published rule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This visa may overlap in practice with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n No clear evidence of a formally renamed medical category was found in publicly accessible official sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n People often confuse it with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because Burkina Faso\u2019s public materials may be spread across embassy pages and broader visa notices, some requirements are general short-stay visa requirements plus purpose-specific medical evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Burkina Faso is part of ECOWAS. Citizens of ECOWAS member states often benefit from regional mobility arrangements and may not need a standard visa for short stays, subject to current regional and border rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Warning:<\/strong> Even where visa-free entry exists, a traveler seeking medical treatment should still carry:\n– hospital letter\n– proof of identity\/nationality\n– funds proof\n– accommodation and support evidence<\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually need a visa unless exempt under another bilateral or diplomatic arrangement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n May be subject to special rules or waivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typical expectations may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the embassy specifies a minimum validity period, follow that rule exactly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No standalone age threshold for being a patient. Minors can apply through parents\/guardians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not applicable for this visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A medical traveler often needs one or more of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not applicable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Needed if:\n– a child is traveling with a parent\n– a spouse is accompanying the patient\n– a guardian is acting for the patient<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not a school admission letter, but the medical equivalent may be required:\n– hospital acceptance\n– treatment booking\n– medical appointment letter\n– cost estimate<\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually required to show ability to cover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Commonly required, such as:\n– hospital admission confirmation\n– clinic lodging arrangement\n– hotel booking\n– host accommodation proof<\/p>\n\n\n\n Return or onward ticket reservation may be requested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This visa itself is based on a medical need, but applicants may still be asked for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Burkina Faso commonly requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for travelers entering from relevant risk contexts and often as a general entry document. Check current official health\/travel entry requirements before travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A police certificate is not always published as a standard short-stay requirement, but may be requested in individual cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Travel\/medical coverage may be expected by some posts even when treatment is pre-arranged. This can vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Possible, depending on the embassy process and whether the application is handled in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should show:<\/p>\n\n\n\n This route is not a dual-intent immigration pathway. It is a temporary-purpose visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Applicants usually apply from:\n– country of nationality, or\n– country of lawful residence<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some embassies may accept third-country applicants; some may not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If stay becomes extended, local registration or immigration follow-up may apply. Publicly available rules are not always clearly centralized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not applicable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Very important. Burkinab\u00e8 embassies may vary on:\n– appointment systems\n– application form version\n– accepted language of documents\n– whether originals are required\n– whether hotel booking must be fully paid\n– whether treatment cost prepayment is required<\/p>\n\n\n\n Possible for:\n– ECOWAS nationals\n– diplomats\/officials\n– emergency humanitarian\/officially arranged medical evacuations<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may be refused if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Example:\n– You say \u201cmedical treatment,\u201d but provide no hospital letter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your bank balance does not reasonably cover:\n– treatment estimate\n– travel\n– stay\n– companion costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n Applying as a tourist when treatment is the real purpose can create credibility issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This matters more for non-exempt nationals applying for temporary stay visas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Any past visa misuse may hurt credibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Serious character concerns can cause refusal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example:\n– no clear treatment date\n– treatment in one city but hotel booked elsewhere without explanation\n– long stay requested for minor treatment without medical explanation<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the consulate cannot read the medical records or relationship documents, the file may stall or fail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Inconsistent answers about:\n– diagnosis\n– cost\n– hospital\n– who is funding the trip\n– length of stay<\/p>\n\n\n\n This visa mainly gives the right to:\n– seek admission at the border for the approved medical purpose\n– remain for the period authorized\n– attend hospital\/clinic appointments and treatment<\/p>\n\n\n\n Possible benefits include:\n– accompanying parent\/guardian for a minor patient\n– spouse or caregiver travel where justified and documented<\/p>\n\n\n\n If treatment needs multiple visits, a multiple-entry visa may sometimes be requested, though approval is discretionary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is no clear direct conversion advantage, but in genuine medical necessity cases, in-country extension may be possible under general immigration discretion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do not:\n– take paid local work\n– provide services for pay in Burkina Faso\n– run business activities beyond what is compatible with your temporary medical stay<\/p>\n\n\n\n Formal study enrollment is not the purpose of this visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This depends on the visa issued and immigration admission period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Switching from a medical visa to another status inside Burkina Faso is not clearly published as a standard right. It may be difficult or unavailable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may need to:\n– keep passport and visa available\n– comply with treatment purpose\n– leave on time unless extended\n– respond to any immigration inquiries<\/p>\n\n\n\n The visa validity period is the time window during which you may use the visa to seek entry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This may be:\n– single entry for one trip\n– multiple entry for repeated visits<\/p>\n\n\n\n The allowed stay may be:\n– stated on the visa\n– determined at the border\n– aligned with treatment itinerary<\/p>\n\n\n\n Could be either, depending on:\n– embassy practice\n– treatment schedule\n– medical evidence\n– fee paid \/ visa category issued<\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually:\n– visa validity starts from issue date or a date specified on the visa\n– allowed stay starts upon entry<\/p>\n\n\n\n No clearly published medical-visa-specific grace period was found. Do not assume one exists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Possible consequences:\n– fines\n– immigration complications\n– future refusal risk\n– removal\/deportation issues<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you need more time due to medical necessity:\n– act before current stay expires\n– seek guidance from local immigration\/police\/competent authority and your treating hospital<\/p>\n\n\n\n If employed:\n– employer letter approving leave\n– proof of job continuity<\/p>\n\n\n\n If self-employed:\n– business registration\/tax proof\n– explanation of temporary absence<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not usually required unless a student applicant needs to prove residence, status, or return ties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If traveling with or sponsoring family:\n– marriage certificate\n– birth certificate\n– guardianship\/custody documents\n– parental consent letter for minors<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on embassy:\n– police record\n– legalized translations\n– proof of lawful residence in current country\n– return ticket\n– proof of yellow fever vaccination<\/p>\n\n\n\n These vary by post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually:\n– French is safest for Burkina Faso consular use\n– documents in another language may need certified translation\n– civil documents may need notarization\/legalization depending on origin and embassy instruction<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check the embassy\u2019s current requirements. Usually:\n– recent\n– passport-style\n– clear face\n– light background\n– no digital manipulation<\/p>\n\n\n\n Common Mistake:<\/strong> Applicants often submit excellent medical records but weak identity, financial, and relationship evidence. A medical visa is still a full visa application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A universally published medical-visa minimum fund amount was not clearly found<\/strong> in official public sources reviewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That means applicants should assume they need to show enough to cover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Potential sponsors may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Embassy-specific. Common practice is often recent statements covering several months, but verify with the responsible post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If statements are in a less familiar currency:\n– provide a clear explanation\n– consider including a bank letter\n– avoid forcing the visa officer to guess account value trends<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do not forget:\n– visa fee\n– photo\/printing\n– translation\n– courier\n– vaccination\n– medications\n– local transport\n– companion expenses\n– emergency contingency funds<\/p>\n\n\n\n Strong files usually show:\n– stable account activity\n– identifiable source of funds\n– treatment estimate matching available funds\n– explanation for large recent deposits<\/p>\n\n\n\n A single official universal fee table for all Burkina Faso medical-visa cases was not clearly centralized in publicly accessible official materials reviewed. Fees may vary by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because official fees can change:\n– check the latest official embassy or visa portal fee page\n– do not rely on screenshots or third-party blogs\n– confirm accepted payment method before attending<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check whether:\n– you actually need a visa\n– you qualify for visa exemption\n– your purpose should be listed as medical treatment\/medical reasons<\/p>\n\n\n\n This may be:\n– the nearest Burkinab\u00e8 embassy or consulate\n– an official online visa portal\n– another officially designated diplomatic mission<\/p>\n\n\n\n Obtain:\n– hospital\/clinic appointment or acceptance letter\n– treatment estimate\n– doctor referral or diagnosis summary\n– expected duration of treatment<\/p>\n\n\n\n Prepare:\n– passport\n– photos\n– application form\n– travel itinerary\n– accommodation proof\n– financial proof<\/p>\n\n\n\n Write a concise cover letter explaining:\n– who the patient is\n– what treatment is needed\n– where it will take place\n– who is paying\n– how long the stay is expected to last<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some embassies require in-person submission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This may be:\n– online\n– by appointment\n– paper submission to consulate<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use only the accepted official payment method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bring originals and copies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Embassy may ask for:\n– clearer medical records\n– more financial proof\n– translated documents\n– sponsor evidence<\/p>\n\n\n\n If approved:\n– visa sticker or official authorization is issued<\/p>\n\n\n\n Verify:\n– name spelling\n– passport number\n– entries\n– validity dates<\/p>\n\n\n\n Carry all supporting documents in hand luggage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The visa allows travel to the border; final admission remains subject to immigration control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your stay must be extended for medical reasons, contact local authorities before expiry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A single official countrywide medical-visa processing timeline was not clearly published in one central source reviewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apply as early as reasonably possible once you have:\n– confirmed treatment appointment\n– funds proof\n– travel dates<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do not apply so early that:\n– bank statements become stale\n– appointment date changes\n– medical evidence expires<\/p>\n\n\n\n May be required depending on submission process and post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n May be requested if the consular officer needs to confirm:\n– purpose of travel\n– funding\n– treatment details\n– return plan<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is not usually an \u201cimmigration medical exam\u201d route in the same sense as a long-term work or residence visa. Instead, the medical documents are part of the purpose evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n May not be standard for all short-stay cases, but can be requested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Children or emergency applicants may face different practical handling, but official confirmation is needed case by case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No official public approval-rate dataset specific to Burkina Faso medical visas was clearly found.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Common patterns likely include:\n– no genuine medical evidence\n– unclear payment source\n– missing invitation\/appointment\n– weak travel history combined with weak home ties\n– wrong category chosen\n– documents not translated or not legible\n– unrealistic stay period for proposed treatment<\/p>\n\n\n\n Include:\n– diagnosis in plain terms\n– hospital\/clinic name\n– doctor name if available\n– appointment date\n– treatment duration\n– who pays<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you say:\n– \u201cMy brother will host me,\u201d attach host letter and ID.\n– \u201cInsurance covers treatment,\u201d attach insurance approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Useful evidence can include:\n– employment letter\n– school enrollment\n– property\/lease\n– family responsibilities\n– return travel booking<\/p>\n\n\n\n For medical records and civil documents, poor translation can destroy credibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your requested stay should match:\n– treatment dates\n– recovery window\n– doctor recommendation<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use hospital letters with:\n– letterhead\n– phone number\n– address\n– date\n– signature\/stamp where possible<\/p>\n\n\n\n Consular staff should understand the case purpose within seconds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This reduces avoidable delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A short note like \u201cdeposit from sale of vehicle on [date], proof attached\u201d helps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n State why the companion is medically necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Appointment date, hotel, flight, and cover letter should line up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n More is not always better. Better is:\n– relevant\n– legible\n– translated\n– organized<\/p>\n\n\n\n Border officers may ask for:\n– clinic letter\n– return ticket\n– address of stay\n– sponsor contact<\/p>\n\n\n\n Good reasons:\n– medical emergency\n– unclear submission route\n– passport returned without visa but no explanation<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bad reasons:\n– daily status-chasing without new information<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then show what has changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Minor travel cases are often delayed by missing parent authorization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A cover letter is not always formally mandatory, but for a medical visa it is strongly recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Relevant sponsors may include:\n– family member\n– employer\n– insurer\n– charitable organization\n– medical facility for part of the treatment arrangement<\/p>\n\n\n\n A strong sponsor or inviter letter should include:\n– full identity of sponsor\n– relationship to applicant\n– purpose of support\n– duration of support\n– financial commitment\n– accommodation details, if applicable\n– contact details\n– signature\/date<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on the case:\n– ID\/passport copy\n– residence proof\n– bank statements\n– employment proof\n– host address proof\n– hospital confirmation<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is no clearly published dedicated \u201cmedical dependents\u201d framework, but family members may often apply separately to accompany the patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Potential accompanying persons:\n– spouse\n– parent of minor patient\n– child accompanying parent in limited situations\n– essential caregiver, if justified<\/p>\n\n\n\n No special work or study rights should be assumed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Very important:\n– consent letter from non-traveling parent(s)\n– custody order if applicable\n– child\u2019s birth certificate\n– passport copies of parents\/guardians<\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually:\n– separate visa applications per person\n– linked supporting documents can be cross-referenced<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not appropriate on this visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Receiving passive income from outside Burkina Faso is different from working, but do not assume that active remote work is permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A visa allows you to travel to Burkina Faso and request entry. It does not<\/strong> guarantee admission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Carry in hand luggage:\n– passport\n– visa\n– hospital letter\n– treatment appointment\n– return\/onward ticket\n– accommodation proof\n– sponsor contact details\n– financial proof\n– vaccination certificate if applicable<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may be asked:\n– Why are you coming?\n– Where will you stay?\n– Which hospital will you attend?\n– How long are you staying?\n– Who is paying?<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you leave Burkina Faso and want to return:\n– check whether your visa is single or multiple entry<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your visa is in an old passport and you travel with a new one, verify with the issuing post whether both passports may be carried.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Possibly, especially if treatment overruns for genuine medical reasons. But no clearly published general medical-visa extension framework was found.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before expiry:\n– get a letter from the treating doctor\/hospital\n– contact local immigration authorities\n– keep passport valid\n– maintain proof of funds\/support<\/p>\n\n\n\n No general published right to switch from medical visitor status to:\n– work\n– study\n– family settlement\n– business residence<\/p>\n\n\n\n Assume switching is difficult unless specifically authorized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No direct path was identified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Only indirectly, if:\n– you later qualify for a lawful long-term status under separate rules\n– and those later rules permit residence counting<\/p>\n\n\n\n A temporary medical visa does not itself create a citizenship pathway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a normal short medical stay, tax residence is unlikely to be the main issue, but long or repeated stays can create questions. Obtain professional tax advice if your stay becomes extended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Can affect:\n– future Burkina Faso visas\n– border admissions\n– regional travel confidence<\/p>\n\n\n\n Citizens of ECOWAS member states may benefit from visa-free entry arrangements for short stays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Warning:<\/strong> Entry conditions and documentary expectations can still apply at the border.<\/p>\n\n\n\n May have exemptions depending on bilateral arrangements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some nationalities may benefit from special treatment, but these are not always clearly centralized. Check with the responsible Burkinab\u00e8 embassy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Need:\n– parent\/guardian application support\n– birth certificate\n– parental consent if not traveling with both parents<\/p>\n\n\n\n Often need:\n– custody order\n– notarized consent from non-traveling parent, if required<\/p>\n\n\n\n May require:\n– adoption order\n– legal guardianship proof<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recognition may be legally and practically complex depending on document acceptance and local legal context. Applicants should verify with the relevant embassy before applying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Should verify with the embassy whether their travel document is accepted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apply using the passport you intend to travel with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not automatically disqualifying, but explain honestly if asked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Could trigger refusal depending on seriousness and security concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In emergencies, contact the embassy directly and provide hospital urgency proof.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do not assume travel is allowed; verify with the issuing post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some embassies accept only residents of their jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Include legal linking documents so identity records match.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Serious negative factor; legal advice may be necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should receive a refusal outcome, though the level of detail can vary by post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A clearly published universal appeal mechanism for this visa category was not found in public sources reviewed. This may depend on:\n– where you applied\n– local consular procedure\n– administrative law framework<\/p>\n\n\n\n Often the practical route is to reapply with:\n– corrected documents\n– stronger proof of funds\n– clearer medical evidence\n– better explanation of purpose<\/p>\n\n\n\n Visa fees are usually non-refundable after processing begins, unless official rules say otherwise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reapply only after fixing the refusal reasons. A rushed reapplication with the same weaknesses often fails again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Expect checks of:\n– passport\n– visa\n– travel purpose\n– address\/hospital\n– length of stay<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depending on the case, you may need to:\n– report to the treating facility\n– keep proof of lawful stay\n– seek extension if treatment is prolonged<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the stay approaches expiry and treatment continues:\n– obtain updated medical letter\n– ask about extension urgently<\/p>\n\n\n\n These are practical matters, not visa rights. Requirements vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use clear file names like:\n– 01_Passport.pdf\n– 02_Application_Form.pdf\n– 03_Cover_Letter.pdf\n– 04_Hospital_Letter.pdf\n– 05_Bank_Statements_Jan-Mar.pdf<\/p>\n\n\n\nVisa Snapshot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n \nItem<\/th>\n Details<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Country<\/td>\n Burkina Faso<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Visa name<\/td>\n Medical Treatment Visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Visa short name<\/td>\n Medical<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Category<\/td>\n Short-stay entry visa for medical care\/treatment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Main purpose<\/td>\n Travel to Burkina Faso for medical consultation, treatment, surgery, or related care<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Typical applicant<\/td>\n Foreign nationals seeking treatment in a hospital, clinic, or medical facility in Burkina Faso<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Validity<\/td>\n Varies by visa issued; often aligned to treatment\/travel period<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Stay duration<\/td>\n Usually short stay; exact period depends on visa issued and border authorization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Entries allowed<\/td>\n May be single or multiple entry depending on visa issued<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Extension possible?<\/td>\n Possible in some cases, but not clearly published as a dedicated medical-visa rule; verify locally with immigration authorities<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Work allowed?<\/td>\n No, not on a medical-purpose visa unless separately authorized<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Study allowed?<\/td>\n No, except incidental\/non-formal activity not amounting to study enrollment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Family allowed?<\/td>\n Possible as accompanying applicants, but each traveler may need their own visa and supporting purpose documents<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n PR path?<\/td>\n No direct PR path<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Citizenship path?<\/td>\n No direct path; only indirect if later moving to another lawful long-term status, where permitted<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n \n
Why it exists<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Who it is meant for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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How it fits into Burkina Faso\u2019s immigration system<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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What form does it take?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Alternate names and labels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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2. Who should apply for this visa?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Ideal applicants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Medical travelers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Parents or guardians<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Family supporters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Who should generally not use this visa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n \nApplicant type<\/th>\n Should they use this visa?<\/th>\n Better route<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Tourists<\/td>\n Usually no<\/td>\n Tourist\/short-stay visitor visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Business visitors<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Business visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Job seekers<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Appropriate work authorization route<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Employees taking up a job<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Work visa\/work permit route<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Students enrolling in study<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Student visa\/residence authorization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Founders opening a business<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Business\/investment route<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Investors<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Investor\/business route<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Digital nomads working remotely<\/td>\n Usually no<\/td>\n A visitor visa may not permit productive work; verify another legal route<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Transit passengers<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Transit visa or visa-free transit rules, if applicable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Journalists<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n Media\/journalist authorization if required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Category-by-category guidance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tourists<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Business visitors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Job seekers and employees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Students<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Spouses\/partners and children<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Researchers, artists, religious workers, investors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Diplomatic or official travelers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. What is this visa used for?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Permitted purpose<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n
Usually acceptable supporting situations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Prohibited or not clearly permitted uses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Grey areas and misunderstandings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Remote work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Family support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Medical tourism plus leisure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Official visa classification and naming<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Official program name<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Short name \/ code \/ subclass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Long name<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Internal streams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Related permit names<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Old vs current naming<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Commonly confused categories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
5. Eligibility criteria<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Core eligibility matrix<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nRequirement<\/th>\n Usual position<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Nationality<\/td>\n Required for non-exempt nationals; ECOWAS and some other travelers may be exempt or subject to special entry rules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Passport validity<\/td>\n Must be valid; many embassies require several months\u2019 validity beyond entry\/stay<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Medical purpose proof<\/td>\n Yes, central requirement<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Financial proof<\/td>\n Usually yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Return\/onward travel<\/td>\n Usually expected<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Accommodation proof<\/td>\n Usually expected<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Insurance<\/td>\n Often advisable and may be required depending on post<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Criminal\/character issues<\/td>\n Can affect decision<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Biometrics<\/td>\n May apply depending on process\/post<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Interview<\/td>\n May be requested<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Health documents<\/td>\n Yes, often central to this category<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Nationality rules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
ECOWAS nationals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Non-ECOWAS nationals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Diplomatic\/service\/official passports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Passport validity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Age<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Education, language, work experience, points<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sponsorship \/ invitation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Job offer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Relationship proof<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Admission letter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Maintenance funds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Accommodation proof<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Onward travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Yellow fever<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Character \/ criminal record<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Biometrics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Intent requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Return intent vs dual intent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Residency outside Burkina Faso<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Local registration rules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Quotas\/caps\/ballots<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Embassy-specific rules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Special exemptions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. Who is NOT eligible \/ common refusal triggers<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Ineligibility factors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Common refusal triggers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Mismatch between stated purpose and documents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Insufficient funds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Weak or vague medical evidence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
4. Wrong visa class<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Poor ties to home country<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Prior overstays or immigration violations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Criminal\/security concerns<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Suspicious itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Unverifiable documents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
10. Translation and notarization problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. Interview mistakes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Benefits of this visa<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Main benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Legal rights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Family benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Duration benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Conversion or renewal benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
8. Limitations and restrictions<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Main restrictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Work restrictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Study restrictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Maximum stay<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Switching restrictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reporting and compliance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
9. Duration, validity, entries, and stay rules<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Visa validity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Stay duration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Single vs multiple entry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When the clock starts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Grace periods<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Overstay consequences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Renewal timing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
10. Complete document checklist<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
A. Core documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nDocument<\/th>\n What it is<\/th>\n Why needed<\/th>\n Common mistakes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Visa application form<\/td>\n Official application form<\/td>\n Starts the case<\/td>\n Old version, incomplete answers<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Passport<\/td>\n Valid travel document<\/td>\n Identity and travel authority<\/td>\n Expired passport, insufficient validity<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Passport photos<\/td>\n Recent photos<\/td>\n Identification<\/td>\n Wrong size\/background<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Medical letter<\/td>\n Hospital\/clinic or doctor document<\/td>\n Proves treatment purpose<\/td>\n Missing date, no contact details<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Cover letter<\/td>\n Applicant explanation<\/td>\n Clarifies trip and funding<\/td>\n Too vague or inconsistent<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n B. Identity\/travel documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
C. Financial documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
D. Employment\/business documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
E. Education documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
F. Relationship\/family documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
G. Accommodation\/travel documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
H. Sponsor\/invitation documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
I. Health\/insurance documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
J. Country-specific extras<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
K. Minor\/dependent-specific documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
L. Translation \/ apostille \/ notarization needs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
M. Photo specifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
11. Financial requirements<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Is there a fixed published minimum?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Who can sponsor?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Acceptable proof of funds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Bank statement period<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Currency issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Hidden costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Proof strength tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
12. Fees and total cost<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
\n
Typical cost components<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nCost item<\/th>\n Official status<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Visa application fee<\/td>\n Check current embassy\/official visa page<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Processing\/service fee<\/td>\n May apply depending on submission channel<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Biometrics fee<\/td>\n May apply if biometrics are collected<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Medical exam fee<\/td>\n Usually not a standard immigration medical for this route, but treatment records may cost money<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Police certificate cost<\/td>\n If requested<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Translation\/notary\/legalization<\/td>\n Varies<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Courier fee<\/td>\n If passport return by courier<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Insurance cost<\/td>\n If required\/advisable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Travel costs<\/td>\n Applicant-specific<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Companion\/dependent fee<\/td>\n Usually separate visa fee per person<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Fee advice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
13. Step-by-step application process<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
1. Confirm the correct visa category<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
2. Identify the correct official filing point<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
3. Gather medical evidence<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
4. Gather personal documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5. Prepare supporting explanation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. Book appointment if required<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
7. Submit application<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
8. Pay the fee<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
9. Attend biometrics\/interview if requested<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
10. Respond to additional requests<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
11. Receive decision<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
12. Check visa details immediately<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
13. Travel to Burkina Faso<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
14. Border admission<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
15. After arrival<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
14. Processing time<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Official standard times<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What affects timing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Practical expectation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
15. Biometrics, interview, medical, and police checks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Biometrics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Interview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Typical questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Medical checks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Police checks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Exemptions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
16. Approval rates \/ refusal patterns \/ practical reality<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Official approval data<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Practical refusal patterns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
17. How to strengthen the application legally<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Practical, ethical ways to improve the file<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Use a precise cover letter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Match every claim to a document<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Organize finances clearly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Prove return ties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Use professional translations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Keep the itinerary realistic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Include contactable institutions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. Insider tips, practical hacks, and smart applicant strategies<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Legal Tips and Common Applicant Strategies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Put the hospital letter first<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Add a one-page document index<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Explain large bank deposits before being asked<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. If the patient is vulnerable, include a caregiver explanation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Use consistent dates everywhere<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Do not overload the file with irrelevant papers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Carry originals while traveling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Contact the embassy only when necessary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. If previously refused anywhere, disclose honestly if asked<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. For children, over-document consent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
19. Cover letter \/ statement of purpose guidance<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
When it is needed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What to include<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
What not to say<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Sample outline<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Tone<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
20. Sponsor \/ inviter guidance<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Who can sponsor?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Invitation letter structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Required sponsor documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sponsor mistakes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
21. Dependents, spouse, partner, and children<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Are dependents allowed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Who qualifies in practice?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Proof required<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Work\/study rights of dependents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Custody\/consent for minors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Separate vs combined applications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
22. Work rights, study rights, and business activity rules<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Work rights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nActivity<\/th>\n Allowed?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Local employment<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Self-employment in Burkina Faso<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Paid service delivery in-country<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Job searching<\/td>\n Not the purpose<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Study rights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nActivity<\/th>\n Allowed?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Formal school\/university enrollment<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Short informal reading\/learning<\/td>\n Incidental only<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Training course tied to treatment<\/td>\n Only if truly incidental and not the visa purpose<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Business activity rules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nActivity<\/th>\n Allowed?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Business meetings<\/td>\n Not the purpose; use business visa if primary reason<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Setting up company<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Receiving local business income<\/td>\n No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Volunteering and internships<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Passive income<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
23. Travel rules and border entry issues<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Visa vs admission<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Documents to carry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Border questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Re-entry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
New passport issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
24. Extension, renewal, switching, and conversion<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Can it be extended?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Best practice if more time is needed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Switching to another visa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Risks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
25. Permanent residency and citizenship pathway<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Does this visa count toward PR?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Does it lead indirectly to PR?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Citizenship path<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
26. Taxes, compliance, and legal obligations<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Tax residence risk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Compliance obligations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Overstay and status violations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
27. Country-specific or nationality-specific exceptions<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
ECOWAS mobility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Diplomatic and official passports<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bilateral agreements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
28. Special cases and edge cases<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Minors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Divorced or separated parents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Adopted children<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Same-sex spouses\/partners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Stateless persons and refugees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Dual nationals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Prior refusals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Criminal records<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Urgent travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Expired passport but valid visa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Applying from a third country<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Name changes \/ gender marker mismatch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Previous deportation\/removal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
29. Common myths and mistakes<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Myth vs Fact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n \nMyth<\/th>\n Fact<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n \u201cMedical travel means the visa is automatic.\u201d<\/td>\n False. You still must meet documentary and credibility requirements.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \u201cA hospital appointment alone is enough.\u201d<\/td>\n Usually false. You also need passport, form, funds, and other standard visa evidence.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \u201cI can work remotely while recovering.\u201d<\/td>\n Not clearly authorized; do not assume it is permitted.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \u201cMy family can come without separate applications.\u201d<\/td>\n Usually false. Each traveler typically needs their own permission to enter.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \u201cIf I have a visa, entry is guaranteed.\u201d<\/td>\n False. Border officers make the final admission decision.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \u201cI can just extend later if needed.\u201d<\/td>\n Maybe, but not guaranteed and not clearly published as a general right.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n \u201cAny clinic note will do.\u201d<\/td>\n False. It should be formal, legible, and verifiable.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n 30. Refusal, appeal, administrative review, and reapplication<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
What happens after refusal?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Is there an appeal?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reapplication<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Refund<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When to reapply<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
31. Arrival in Burkina Faso: what happens next?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
At immigration control<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
After entry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
First 7 days<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
First 30 days<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Banking\/SIM\/housing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
32. Real-world timeline examples<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Example 1: Solo medical traveler<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Example 2: Parent accompanying child patient<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Example 3: Repeat treatment patient<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Example 4: Applicant from a third country<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
33. Ideal document pack structure<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Recommended file order<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Naming convention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Scan tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n