Visas
The Government’s Agency for Private Investment and Promotion of Exports of Angola (AIPEX) can help in the process of getting a visa. Click on this link to get an Angola-Visa within 48 hours.
Below are the 3 types of visas currently in force in Angola:
Angola’s tourist visas are designed for short-term visits, either for leisure or business activities. Expatriates should verify whether their nationality allows for visa-free entry or eligibility for a visa upon arrival. If neither applies, it’s necessary to apply for a visa prior to traveling, either through an Angolan embassy or the country’s electronic visa (eVisa) system. Those who can obtain a visa upon arrival may expedite the process by using the eVisa system for pre-registration and advanced payment.
Tourist visas grant a stay of 30 days and are valid for 60 days from the date of issue. Once in Angola, visitors can apply for an extension for an additional 30 days. Importantly, individuals visiting on a tourist visa cannot establish residency or pursue employment for profit.
Citizens of CPLP – Community of Portuguese Language Countries and G20 (group consisting of the world’s 19 largest economies plus the European Union) are exempt from paying tourism or business visas for trips until 30 days to Angola.
Residence visas allow foreign nationals to establish residency in Angola. These visas permit stays up to 120 days and can be renewed until a decision is made on the application for a residence permit. Residence visas permit multiple entries, and holders of such visas can legally work in Angola.
Applications for residence visas can be submitted personally, via a third party, or through an authorized agency. It’s important to note that visa regulations can change without much notice, so expatriates should reach out to their respective embassy or consulate for the most recent information.
Work permits
However, expatriates can only engage in the job specified in the visa application and are restricted to employment with the employer who applied for the visa.
It’s worth emphasizing that an Angolan work visa does not grant the right to establish permanent residence. Expatriates aspiring to live in Angola on a long-term basis need to apply separately for a residence permit.
Application for an Angolan work permit can be a somewhat intricate process, with the hiring company generally serving as the sponsor and taking responsibility for the visa application procedures. The employer is also responsible for informing the relevant authority about any changes in the employee’s contract duration.
The application for a work permit requires various documents, many of which must be photocopied, notarized, and translated into Portuguese. It’s crucial to note that hiring companies must demonstrate that no local individual could fulfill the job role before hiring an expatriate.
Please bear in mind that visa regulations and requirements for work permits can alter at any given moment. As such, expatriates should reach out to their respective embassy or consulate to obtain the most current information.
Cost of Living
The capital of Angola, Luanda, may not offer the affordability some expatriates anticipate. A few years ago, living expenses in Luanda were comparable to, if not exceeding, those in global economic cities like Singapore and Tokyo. While costs have become more manageable, living in the capital remains relatively expensive.
In the 2023 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Luanda holds the 30th position among 227 cities surveyed worldwide in terms of costliness. A handful of African cities, including Bangui (Central African Republic) and Djibouti (Djibouti), rank slightly higher. However, the costs of living in other cities/provinces of Angola is much more affordable.
The most substantial expenses for expatriates, especially those with families, are likely to be housing and private education.
Housing costs in Angola are relatively high due to a significant gap between demand and supply. The scarcity of safe housing options has escalated rental prices.
Transportation costs in Angola can vary significantly depending on the distance and mode of transport. Public transport is budget-friendly but suffers from overcrowding and inconsistent schedules, rendering it unreliable. Nowadays, private taxi apps such as Yango or Heetch are an affordable and efficient option. Hiring personal drivers, a more comfortable but pricier option. Those opting for personal vehicles should anticipate high fuel and maintenance costs.
Local markets are popular for reasonably priced fresh fruits, vegetables, and local meats. However, Western-brand products are considerably more expensive due to import taxes and logistical difficulties. As a result, many expatriates adapt their diets to include more locally produced foods, benefiting both their wallets and the local economy.
The public healthcare system often lacks adequate resources and staffing, resulting in expats preferring private healthcare providers. On top of these direct costs, comprehensive health insurance is crucial for any expat. Health allowances or health insurance coverage are very important and may be costly.
Healthcare
While the healthcare system in Angola might not yet meet Western expectations, it is essential to note that efforts are ongoing to improve the situation. Consequently, expatriates should ensure they have comprehensive medical insurance covering emergency evacuation costs. The health sector is receiving significant investments to bolster the number of healthcare professionals, enhance facilities, and improve equipment availability.
As Angola is still in the process of developing a state-sponsored health scheme, expatriates are advised to ensure they have robust medical insurance before arrival.
Education
The private education system in Angola is fairly small and primarily consists of international schools, most of which are in Luanda, where expatriate children tend to study, since local families frequently find the costs prohibitive.
Schools with an international curriculum are often supported by an embassy or corporate entity present in the country, providing children with a globally recognized education, such as the British, French, or International Baccalaureate systems. As these schools sometimes prioritize the offspring of embassy staff or employees of the sponsoring organization, it’s wise to apply well in advance.
In instances where families move for work, the employer generally covers education costs. Expatriates receiving a salary without additional benefits must ensure their budget can cover not only tuition but also related expenses such as uniforms, meals, field trips, and extracurricular activities.
Security at all these schools is robust, providing a safe environment for students. International schools in Angola typically offer a high standard of education and are equipped with top-notch facilities, complete with an array of high-end amenities. Features such as air-conditioned classrooms and reliable backup systems for electricity, water, and the internet are commonplace, although it’s advisable for parents to thoroughly research each school to confirm these standards.
Here are a few renowned international schools in Angola:
- American Schools of Angola: This co-educational institution follows the American curriculum and caters to students aged 11 to 18. For more information, visit their website at www.asangola.com.
- Escola Portuguesa de Luanda: This co-educational institution follows the Portuguese curriculum and caters to students aged 3 to 18. You can learn more about the school on their website: www.epluanda.pt.
- Luanda International School: This co-educational school follows the International Baccalaureate curriculum, catering to students aged 3 to 18. More details are available on their website: www.lisluanda.com.
- Lycée Français Alioune-Blondin Bèye: This co-educational school follows the French curriculum, catering to students aged 3 to 18. Visit their website www.lfluanda.net for more information.
Language
In Angola, Portuguese serves as the official language, with English proficiency generally limited to those within the oil and gas industry, as well as those in public institutions that communicate with foreign investors. Without a solid grasp of Portuguese, meaningful engagement can be elusive, making it a challenge to form friendships outside the expat community.
Navigate Angola
Angola’s road network has been an ongoing development project following historical conflicts. However, one can use it’s many national roads to get to every part of the country. The Benguela railroad also allows people and goods to easily cross the country from east to west.
Public and private transportation
Angola’s public transport services primarily comprise distinctive blue-and-white minibuses or taxis, adding a local flavor to the urban landscape. Currently, the most efficient option of transportation are the private taxi apps.
The private taxi apps are an affordable and the most efficient option. While global apps like Uber aren’t present, Angola has pioneered its own solution in the form of Kubinga, Yango or Heetch, local companies that employ a similar ride-hailing model, with the difference being in the payment, which is exclusively in cash.
Public transport is budget-friendly but suffers from overcrowding and inconsistent schedules. Hiring personal drivers represents a more comfortable but pricier option. Those opting for personal vehicles should anticipate high fuel and maintenance costs.
Driving experience
Navigating Angola’s roads often becomes an exhilarating journey, best undertaken with a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to occasional potholes and unpredictable elements like free-roaming livestock. To provide a comfortable experience for their expat employees, many companies offer car and driver services, even covering maintenance and fuel costs.
Ownership of personal vehicles is relatively high due to the costs; a car in Angola could cost twice as much as in the US, not to mention additional expenses for fuel and maintenance.
Many expats reside in Luanda Sul, south of the capital, where congestion is less intense and having a private vehicle can make getting around more manageable. Conversely, Luanda’s city center experiences higher vehicle density, which adds to the area’s lively atmosphere.
During the rainy season, drivers need to exercise additional caution to navigate the ever-evolving roadscape. Given the spirited local driving habits and the absence of tarmac on some roads, having an experienced driver can add an extra layer of comfort to your Angolan adventure.
Weather
The coastal regions of Angola experience a distinctive dry climate due to the influence of the chilly Benguela sea current. This area, extending as far north as Luanda, mainly comprises desert or semi-desert landscapes. Particularly, the south demonstrates increased aridity, given its close proximity to the Kalahari Desert.
The climate in Luanda, where a majority of expats reside, showcases mild tropical traits with temperatures consistently oscillating between 70°F (20°C) and 85°F (30°C) throughout most of the year. The winter season spanning June, July, and August results in minor temperature drops, generally offering a pleasant environment for expats.
Conversely, the weather in Luanda during February, March, and April can be slightly challenging. Higher temperatures and escalated humidity levels mark this period. In March, and more so in April, the city faces significant rainfall, which can potentially harm basic infrastructure and impact road safety.
Culture
Angolan culture is marked by warm hospitality and a strong sense of community. The Angolan people welcome visitors with open arms, sharing their culture and traditions with generosity. Traditional festivities, such as the Luanda Carnival and the National Festival of Culture, are special moments when people come together to celebrate the cultural richness of the country.
One of the most notable cultural contributions from Angola is the captivating dance known as Kizomba. Kizomba, meaning “party” in Kimbundu (one of Angola’s national languages), originated in the 1980s and has since gained international recognition and popularity. Kizomba’s rhythm and lyrics often convey stories of love, longing, and African experiences.
Kizomba has become a global phenomenon, spreading its influence to dance communities around the world. Its popularity can be attributed to its accessibility, as people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy its graceful movements and emotional connection. In Angola, Kizomba is not only a dance but also a way of life, symbolizing unity, passion, and celebration.
Culture in Angola is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and pride. It connects people, preserves roots, and promotes national identity. Through its cultural manifestations, Angola keeps its history alive and offers the world a unique and memorable cultural experience, including the enchanting rhythms of Kizomba.
Tourism
The wide bay of Cabo Ledo (Cape Ledo) is in the province of Bengo, within the Kissama National Park (home to a great biodiversity where safaris are conducted), 120 km south of the city of Luanda. The vastness of the beaches, clear water, and the beauty of the immense cliffs next to the extensive strip of white sand make Cabo Ledo a stunning place. It is also recognized for surfing and fishing practices.
Among the main tourist attractions of Cabo Ledo are the Fortaleza de São Miguel, the National Slavery Museum, the Mausoleum of Dr. Agostinho Neto, or the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. And then there’s the Carnival season, not to be missed!
Located south of the city of Luanda, Iha do Mussulo (Mussulo Island) is a true tropical paradise with stunning attractions. An ecological reserve, it has a stretch of beautiful beaches, with white sand and crystal-clear water that invite visitors to relax and enjoy the sun.
Mussulo is also the island of fun, with exciting activities such as water sports, boat tours, and fishing. It is possible to explore the local culture at traditional parties and among fishing communities. With its natural beauty and serene environment, this is a must-visit holiday destination.
With a width of 410 meters and a height of 105 meters, where an impressive curtain of water falls over the rocks, Quedas de Calandula (Calandula Falls) are one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Angola and the second largest in Africa.
Located on the Lucala River, the most important tributary of the Cuanza River, in the province of Malanje, and 420 km from Luanda, Quedas de Calandula offer a lush setting, with the surrounding landscape providing a unique panoramic view. Visitors can explore trails through the forest, have picnics on the riverbanks, or simply appreciate the serene beauty of this unique and enchanting destination.
Located in the Serra da Leba, 18 km from Lubango, in the province of Huíla, Fenda da Tundavala (Tundavala Gap) is a fascinating geological wonder. This enormous chasm of about 1200 meters offers a stunning view of the vast plains below, creating a breathtaking scene. Visitors can explore trails, enjoy panoramic views, and take memorable photographs. With a dramatic landscape and impressive views, Fenda da Tundavala is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
In the south of Angola, sea and desert stand side by side. Namibe, in the local language, means “vast place”: it is 2,000 km long and over 8,000 square km of desert, starting at Iona National Park in Angola and passing through Namibia to the Kalahari Desert in South Africa.
The beaches and the desert of Namibe are a true paradise for nature lovers. The beaches, with kilometers of untouched coastline, golden sand, and crystal-clear waters, have a rich marine life. And the Namibe desert, with its majestic reddish-orange dunes, provides breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can enjoy tours, go sandboarding, or simply contemplate the serene beauty of these unique and fascinating settings.