Local Laws

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While you are traveling in Benin, you are subject to its laws and regulations even if you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime prosecutable in the United States.
While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in a foreign country, that might not always be the case. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as you are arrested or detained overseas.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:  U.S. citizens are advised to keep a notarized photocopy of the photo page of their passport with them at all times when traveling in Benin. 

The Embassy has had a few reports of officials requesting a "gift" to facilitate official administrative matters (e.g., customs entry). Such requests should be politely but firmly declined. 

It is prohibited to photograph government buildings and other official sites, such as military installations, without the formal consent of the Government of Benin. In general, it is always best to be courteous and ask permission before taking pictures of people. Beninese citizens may react angrily if photographed without their prior approval.

Obtaining customs clearance at the port of Cotonou for donated items shipped to Benin from the United States may be a lengthy process. In addition, to obtain a waiver of customs duties on donated items, the donating organization must secure prior written approval from the Government of Benin. Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou for more detailed information. Please see our Customs Information. 

Maritime insecurity and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea are growing concerns. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, 23 of 24 attacks recorded in Benin in 2011-2012 involved chemical or product tankers. All of the recorded attacks involved international vessels, most took place at night and most occurred within 22 nautical miles off the Port of Cotonou. As a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Benin has enhanced its maritime security posture in cooperation with Nigeria, Togo, and international partners including the United States. “Operation Prosperity” conducted jointly with the Nigerian Navy has enabled Benin to maintain a maritime safety record that supports commerce.

LGBT RIGHTS:  While Benin’s laws on sexual morality provide scope for authorities to act against a range of sexual behavior, its penal code does not mention or criminalize same-gender sexual relations. In general, Beninese authorities do not act against those involved in same-gender relationships. Local social norms favor discretion in sexual relations and are not uniformly accepting of same-sex relationships.  For further information on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) travel, please read our  LGBT Traveler Information page.

ACCESSIBILITY: While in Benin, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is available in the United States. The condition of the sidewalks, where they exist, is often poor. It is unusual to find curb cuts or other modifications for wheelchairs. Cars and motorcycles often park on sidewalks, making navigation difficult. Only major roads are paved. The unpaved roads may be full of holes, rocks, and other debris. There are few marked pedestrian crossings. Some hotels, restaurants, and other stores are accessible via wheelchair, but many are not. The primary method of public transportation is the zemidjan (moped taxi). The passenger rides on the back and there are no special accommodations for people with disabilities.

Discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities is not prohibited by law, and there are no legal requirements for the construction or alteration of buildings to permit access for persons with disabilities. The labor code includes provisions to protect the rights of workers with disabilities, but they are enforced with limited effectiveness.