With an abundance of natural resources and gorgeous landscapes, Angola attracts many expats to its shores. To boost tourism, the country has relaxed some of its visa laws, making it easier to enter. Still, the process of securing long-term visas for Angola can be steeped in bureaucracy, so we recommend exercising a little patience.

Angola allows visa-free entry to nationals of over 90 countries. Those who do require a visa to enter the country will either have to apply beforehand or may be able to obtain a visa on arrival.

Tourist visas for Angola

Visa stamps

Tourist visas allow short-term entry to the country for leisure or business purposes.

You should check if your nationality allows you visa-free entry or permits you to obtain a visa on arrival. If not, you must apply for a visa before your trip. 

This can either be done at a local Angolan embassy or online via the country’s electronic visa (eVisa) system. Those eligible for a visa on arrival can speed up the process by using the eVisa system to pre-register and pay for their visa ahead of time instead of at the border.

Tourist visas are valid for one stay of 30 days and must be used within 60 days of being granted. Once in the country, it is possible to apply for two extensions, each allowing an additional 30 days in Angola. 

The following is required:

  • Valid passport
  • Travel itinerary, including accommodation bookings and return flights.
  • Proof of adequate funds to support you during your stay in the country
  • Letter of invitation if travelling for business
  • Yellow fever certificate, if applicable

If you are travelling on this Angolan visa, you aren’t allowed to establish residence or engage in work for monetary gain in the country.

Work visas for Angola

Work visas for Angola are granted to those who obtain a contract of temporary employment in the interest of the state or on behalf of an Angolan company. 

There are six types of work visas available to those looking to work in Angola, ranging from Type A to F. The work visa you need will depend on the industry you'll be working in.

Work visas are valid for the duration of the work contract, usually a year. During that time, an Angolan work visa entitles its holder to reside in the country. Processing time is meant to be 15 days or less but is usually two or three months and can be delayed further in some cases.

Work Permits for Angola

Residence visas for Angola

Accompanying spouses and dependants may reside in Angola on a Temporary Stay Visa. They allow for stays of up to 12 months to three years and are renewable for up to five years. After you have been living in Angola for 10 consecutive years, you are eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit, which allows an indefinite stay in Angola.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

What do expats say about visa processes in Angola?

"My long-term visa is just taking so long. Everyone here has visa problems." 

Read Monique's account of the challenges and positives of expat life in Angola in her interview.

"Obtaining an Angolan visa is not easy. One of the big problems seem to be ensuring the whole family can renew their visas together." 

Read more of this anonymous expat's interview about living in Angola.

Further reading

►Learn more about working legally with Work Permits for Angola

Are you an expat living in Angola?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Angola. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.