If you’re planning to visit Angola for tourism, business, work, or other purposes, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the Angola visa process, the different visa types, requirements, application steps, and more. This breakdown will help you prepare for your trip without hassle.
Types of Angola Visas
Depending on the purpose of your visit, Angola offers a variety of visa types. Each visa has its own requirements, duration, and application process.
Tourist Visa
A tourist visa is designed for individuals who wish to visit Angola for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. It does not allow you to work or engage in paid activities in Angola.
- Duration: Up to 30 days, extendable for another 30 days.
- Eligibility: Travelers with the purpose of tourism or visiting relatives.
- Processing Time: 2-10 business days.
- Extension: One extension is possible, for up to 30 additional days.
Requirements:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Completed visa application form.
- Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or an invitation letter from a host).
- Round-trip flight tickets.
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (bank statements).
- Visa fee (varies based on nationality).
- Travel health insurance.
How to Apply: You can apply for an Angolan tourist visa at your nearest Angolan embassy or consulate. Some embassies allow online applications, but this varies by location.
Business Visa
A business visa is for those traveling to Angola for business meetings, conferences, or professional purposes.
- Duration: Usually granted for 30 days, can be extended.
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs, business owners, or individuals attending meetings.
- Processing Time: 2-10 business days.
Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
- Completed visa application form.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- An invitation letter from an Angolan company or organization.
- Proof of your business ties (contracts, business registration, etc.).
- Proof of accommodation.
- Return flight booking.
- Sufficient financial resources (bank statements).
- Visa fee.
- Travel insurance.
How to Apply: Submit your application to the Angolan embassy or consulate with the required documents. Processing times vary depending on the country of application.
Work Visa
A work visa is issued to individuals employed by a company in Angola. This visa allows you to live and work in the country for a specified period.
- Duration: Varies based on employment contract, up to 2 years.
- Eligibility: Individuals with a confirmed job offer from an Angolan employer.
- Processing Time: 30-60 days (longer than other visas).
Requirements:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months).
- Completed visa application form.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- Employment contract or job offer letter from an Angolan company.
- Police clearance certificate from your home country.
- Medical certificate showing you’re in good health.
- Proof of academic and professional qualifications.
- Payment of visa fee.
How to Apply: Work visas are typically applied for by the employer in Angola. The employer submits the necessary documents to Angola’s Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Social Security. Once the visa is approved, the applicant must visit the Angolan consulate or embassy for final processing.
Transit Visa
This visa is for individuals who need to transit through Angola to another destination. You are allowed to stay for a short period (usually up to 5 days).
Requirements:
- Valid passport.
- Visa for the onward destination.
- Confirmed airline ticket.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
Diplomatic and Official Visas
These visas are issued to government officials and diplomats traveling for official duties.
- Eligibility: Diplomats or individuals on official government duty.
- Processing Time: Expedited, often processed within a few days.
Requirements:
- Diplomatic passport.
- Letter of accreditation from the applicant’s government or organization.
- Invitation letter from the Angolan government (if applicable).
Do I Need to Apply for Angola Visa?
Some nationals do not need a visa to enter Angola for short stays. Citizens from select countries in Africa and other regions can enter visa-free for tourism or business purposes. Visa-free stays are usually capped at 30 days.
Here are the visa-free countries whose citizens can enter Angola without a visa:
Africa
- 🇧🇼 Botswana
- 🇨🇻 Cabo Verde
- 🇲🇿 Mozambique
- 🇳🇦 Namibia
- 🇷🇼 Rwanda
- 🇸🇹 São Tomé and Príncipe
- 🇿🇦 South Africa
- 🇿🇲 Zambia
- 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe
Europe
- 🇵🇹 Portugal
- 🇷🇺 Russia
- 🇹🇷 Turkey
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🇮🇹 Italy
Americas
- 🇧🇷 Brazil
- 🇨🇱 Chile
Asia
- 🇲🇴 Macau
These countries can enter Angola visa-free for short stays, generally up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes. Travelers from these countries may still need to apply for a visa if they plan to stay longer or for purposes like work.
Angola eVisa
Angola has introduced an eVisa system to streamline the application process. This system allows applicants from eligible countries to apply for a visa online without visiting an embassy.
Eligibility: Check if your country is eligible for the Angola eVisa.
Process:
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload required documents (passport, photo, flight booking, etc.).
- Pay the visa fee online.
- Receive the eVisa approval letter via email.
- Present the approval letter upon arrival in Angola to receive your visa on arrival.
How to Apply for an Angola Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for an Angola visa:
- Identify the Visa Type: Determine which visa you need (tourist, business, work, etc.).
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documentation (passport, photos, invitation letters, etc.).
- Complete the Application: Fill out the visa application form (online or paper).
- Submit Your Application: Submit the application to the nearest Angolan embassy, consulate, or through the online platform if applying for an eVisa.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Visa fees vary based on nationality and visa type.
- Attend Visa Interview: Some visa types require an interview at the consulate.
- Wait for Processing: Visa processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your travel date.
Traveling to Angola Entry Requirements
Upon arrival in Angola, immigration officers will review your visa and entry documents. Be prepared to present:
- A valid passport with a visa.
- Proof of onward or return travel.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or an invitation letter).
- Sufficient financial resources for your stay.
Visa Denials and Appeals
If your visa application is denied, the Angolan consulate will provide a reason for the denial. In some cases, you may be able to appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or correcting any errors in your application.
Visa Extensions
If you need to extend your stay, you can apply for a visa extension while in Angola. Tourist visas and business visas can typically be extended for another 30 days.
How long does it take to process an Angola visa?
The processing time depends on the type of visa and where you are applying. Tourist visas usually take between 2 to 10 days, while work visas may take 30 to 60 days.
Can I work in Angola on a tourist visa?
No, a tourist visa does not permit you to engage in paid employment. You must apply for a work visa if you intend to work in Angola.
How much does an Angola visa cost?
Visa fees vary based on the type of visa and your nationality. The tourist visa fee typically ranges between $50 and $150.
Can I apply for an Angola visa online?
Yes, eligible travelers can apply for an Angola eVisa, which simplifies the application process. You’ll receive an approval letter via email, and the visa will be issued upon your arrival in Angola.
Do I need a visa to visit Angola?
Yes, most nationalities need a visa to visit Angola for tourism, business, or work purposes. However, citizens from select countries are exempt from requiring a visa for short-term visits (up to 30 days) under visa-free agreements.
What are the types of Angola visas available?
Angola offers several types of visas, including:
- Tourist Visa: For short-term leisure or family visits.
- Business Visa: For business meetings, conferences, or professional purposes.
- Work Visa: For individuals employed by an Angolan company.
- Transit Visa: For those passing through Angola en route to another destination.
- Diplomatic Visa: For government officials on official duties.
How long is the Angola tourist visa valid?
The Angola tourist visa is generally valid for 30 days from the date of entry and can be extended for another 30 days.
How do I apply for an Angola visa?
You can apply for an Angola visa by visiting the nearest Angolan embassy or consulate. The application process typically includes filling out an application form, submitting required documents, and paying the visa fee. Some nationalities may be eligible for the Angola eVisa.
What documents are required to apply for an Angola visa?
You will need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.
- A completed visa application form.
- Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking or invitation letter).
- Round-trip flight tickets.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources (bank statements).
- Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination.
- Travel health insurance.
How long does it take to process an Angola visa?
The processing time typically takes between 2 to 10 business days, depending on the visa type and where you apply.
How much does an Angola visa cost?
Visa fees vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa. Tourist visa fees usually range between $50 and $150.
Can I extend my Angola visa?
Yes, you can extend your Angola tourist visa for an additional 30 days by applying for an extension at the local Migration and Foreigners Service (SME) before your visa expires.
Is there a visa on arrival option for Angola?
Currently, Angola does not offer a visa-on-arrival for all nationalities. However, citizens of certain countries may apply for an eVisa, which is processed online and granted upon arrival.
What happens if I overstay my Angola visa?
Overstaying your visa in Angola can result in fines (about 15,000 Kwanzas per day), deportation, or being barred from re-entering the country. It’s essential to apply for an extension before your visa expires to avoid penalties.
Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccination to enter Angola?
Yes, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry into Angola.
Can I work on a tourist visa in Angola?
No, the Angola tourist visa does not permit you to work. You will need to apply for a work visa if you intend to be employed in Angola.
Can I apply for an Angola visa online?
Yes, some nationalities are eligible for an eVisa for Angola, which allows you to apply online. This is a more convenient option for travelers, as you can complete the application process without visiting an embassy. The eVisa approval is issued electronically, and you will need to present the approval letter upon arrival in Angola to obtain your visa.
What is the Angola eVisa, and who is eligible?
The Angola eVisa is an electronic visa that simplifies the visa application process for eligible nationalities. It allows travelers to apply online, and the visa is issued upon arrival. Eligibility depends on your nationality; you should check with the Angolan embassy or the eVisa portal for more information on whether your country is included.
Can I enter Angola with a transit visa for tourism?
No, the transit visa is only valid for passing through Angola on your way to another destination. It does not allow you to leave the airport for tourism or other purposes. If you plan to explore Angola during your trip, you must apply for a tourist visa.
Can children travel on their parents’ visas to Angola?
No, each traveler, including children, must have their own visa to enter Angola. Ensure that your child has a valid passport and meets all the visa requirements for Angola.
Can I apply for an Angola visa if my passport is about to expire?
No, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Angola. If your passport is expiring soon, you will need to renew it before applying for a visa.
Can I get a refund if my Angola visa is denied?
Visa fees are typically non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied. It is essential to carefully follow the visa application requirements to increase your chances of approval.
How can I check the status of my Angola visa application?
You can check the status of your visa application by contacting the Angolan embassy or consulate where you submitted your application. For eVisa applications, some embassies offer online status checks through their visa portal.
Do I need to enter Angola on the exact dates specified in my visa application?
While it is best to adhere to your planned travel dates, you are generally allowed to enter Angola within the validity period of your visa. However, your stay must not exceed the visa’s allowed duration (e.g., 30 days for tourist visas).