Angola: Tourist Visa Exemption Expanded

UPDATE DECEMBER 7, 2023: As an update in practice over the last two months, eligible foreign nationals have been able to enter Angola under the tourist visa exemption to perform business as well as tourism activities. Other entry requirements and final decisions to enter Angola are at the discretion of border officials. Therefore, employers and travelers are advised to contact their immigration professional to discuss entry for business under this program on a case-by-case basis.

Original entry - October 9, 2023: Effective immediately, the Migration and Foreigners Service has expanded the tourist visa exemption program to nationals of 98 countries (including the current eligible visa-exempt nationals). There are certain priority nationalities as designated by the government (including those from Brazil, Cape Verde, Mainland China, Portugal, Russia and the United States), but the meaning of this status has not been clarified. These nationals may enter Angola without a visa for up to 30 days per entry within a 90-day period per year for tourism purposes only. On arrival, travelers must present the immigration authorities with a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended period of stay and a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate. Previously, these nationals were required to apply for a tourist visa for entry. Note that if qualifying nationals plan to submit another visa/work permit application, they do not qualify for this exemption and must instead apply for a visa/work permit through the Immigration Service portal or at a consular post. This new regulation is meant to boost local tourism in the country.