AFRICA

🇨🇫 Central African Republic

Level 4 — Do Not Travel

Advisory Level Level 4

Exchange Rate 1 USD = 556.44 XAF

Health Alerts 0

Last Updated Jan 15, 2026

About Central African Republic

The Central African Republic is a landlocked country located in Central Africa. It is bordered by Chad to the north, Sudan to the northeast, South Sudan to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the south, the Republic of the Congo to the southwest, and Cameroon to the west. The Central African Republic covers a land area of about 620,000 square kilometres (240,000 sq mi). As of 2024, it has a population of 5,357,744, consisting of about 80 ethnic groups. Having been a French colony under the name Ubangi-Shari, French is its official language, with Sango, a Ngbandi-based creole language, as the national and co-official language. Its capital and largest city is Bangui, which is on the southern border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Source: Wikipedia

At a Glance

Capital Bangui

Population 6.5 million

Area 622,984 km²

Language French

Currency Central African CFA franc

GDP/Capita $516

Travel Advisory

Do not travel due to life-threatening risks. U.S. citizens should depart immediately if safe to do so.

Currency & Economy

Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Exchange Rate: 1 USD = 556.44 XAF
GDP: $2.8B
GDP per Capita: $516

Visa Fee Estimate

$185 USD 102,941 XAF

Based on current Treasury exchange rate

Development

Life Expectancy: 57.4 years

Geography & Practical Details

Region: Africa
Capital: Bangui
Area: 622,984 km²
Population: 6,470,307
Timezone: UTC+01:00
Languages: French, Sango
Calling Code: +236
Drives On: Right
ISO Code: CF