AFRICA

🇧🇯 Benin

Level 2 — Exercise Increased Caution

Advisory Level Level 2

Exchange Rate 1 USD = 553.75 XOF

Health Alerts 0

Last Updated Jan 7, 2026

About Benin

Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, formerly known as Dahomey, is a country in West Africa. Benin is bordered by Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso to the north-west, and Niger to the north-east. The majority of its population lives on the southern coastline of the Bight of Benin, part of the Gulf of Guinea in the northernmost tropical portion of the Atlantic Ocean. The capital is Porto-Novo, and the seat of government is in Cotonou, the most populous city and economic capital. Benin covers an area of 112,622 km2 (43,484 sq mi), and its population in 2021 was estimated to be approximately 13 million. It is a tropical country with an economy heavily dependent on agriculture and the exports of palm oil and cotton.

Source: Wikipedia

At a Glance

Capital Porto-Novo

Population 13.2 million

Area 112,622 km²

Language French

Currency West African CFA franc

GDP/Capita $1,485

Travel Advisory

Exercise increased caution due to heightened risks to safety and security.

Currency & Economy

Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Exchange Rate: 1 USD = 553.75 XOF
GDP: $21.5B
GDP per Capita: $1,485

Visa Fee Estimate

$185 USD 102,444 XOF

Based on current Treasury exchange rate

Development

Life Expectancy: 60.8 years

Geography & Practical Details

Region: Africa
Capital: Porto-Novo
Area: 112,622 km²
Population: 13,224,860
Timezone: UTC+01:00
Languages: French
Calling Code: +229
Drives On: Right
ISO Code: BJ