I decided to focus on visa application today. Fortunately the letter of invitation arrived. Next was a look at the Cameroon Embassy website to check the process and requirements. (See below) It’s been a while since I traveled to anywhere requiring a visa. I was more than a little taken aback by the list. There was more that didn’t apply to me, but there was enough that did to make me want to throw my hands up, hold my head and cry. But I’m beginning to do process quite well.

So off I went to the bank to check the state of my finance (internet banking not working) only to find I’d lost my bank card. Well, left it in an ATM last week is a more accurate description. So one more task to add to the list – report lost card.

Then I ordered travel insurance and printed off my travel ticket details. I fear a few trees may have been sacrificed for this application. That was enough for today. All this came on the back of a full workout at the gym followed by a Zumba class. Yes, the body preparation has begun. More about that tomorrow.

Tomorrow I’ll do the photos, check out postal money orders and re-book my yellow fever vaccine.

• (A)   Documents to be submitted:

1. A passport valid for at least 6 months.
2. Two completed application forms.
3. Two clear passport-size photographs taken frontally.
4. A stamped self-addressed envelope if you require the visa to be posted back to you.
5. A legalised letter of invitation with the Cameroon Police from either the host/contact/partner in Cameroon (accompanied by a legalised copy of the Cameroonian National Identity Card or Residence Permit).
6. Return or continuation ticket.
7. Bank statement (at least £1, 000), except where a tour operator/travel agency is organising a trip.
8. Visa application fee.
9. Travel Insurance.
10. Marriage Certificate for mixed couple and a letter from the Cameroonian partner.
11. Child’s Birth Certificate and a letter from one or both parents allowing the child to travel.
12. Application Procedure
13. Completed applications should be lodge at the reception desk of the High Commission between 9.30am to 12.30pm, Monday to Friday, except on bank, (public) holidays in England and Cameroon.
14. The presence of visa applicants at the High Commission may be required for purposes of identification.
15. Passports are generally ready for collection within 48 hours. Collection is between 2.00pm and 3.30pm every working day. Request for accelerated processing should be justified. If not, it is the normal waiting period, which applies.
16. Application Fees: 

    1 day to 3 months = £62

17. NB: In cash or postal money order please. The above amounts are subject to variation.

Sanitary Requirements

Compulsory vaccines:

1. Yellow Fever
2. Cholera (If coming from affected area). Proof required at port of entry.

Recommended Vaccines

1. Typhoid
2. Meningitis
3. Malaria protection