Angola Visa: Types, Requirements & How to Apply (Step by Step Guide)

Angola, a Southern African nation known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundant natural resources, is an exciting destination for travelers, expatriates, and businesspeople.

However, before embarking on your journey to Angola, you need to understand the country’s visa requirements. This guide provides a detailed overview of Angola’s visa policies, types, application procedures, and tips to ensure your trip is stress-free.

Angola’s visa system is designed to regulate and facilitate the entry of foreign nationals for various purposes. Most travelers require a visa to enter Angola, which can be obtained either through an embassy or via an electronic visa (e-Visa) system for eligible applicants. However, visa exemptions apply to nationals of select countries due to bilateral agreements.

Angola Visa-Free Entry

• Nationals from Namibia can enter Angola without a visa and stay indefinitely due to bilateral agreements.
• Visa-free agreements with a few other nations allow for short-term stays (usually for tourism or official purposes). Travelers should verify their country’s eligibility with the nearest Angolan consulate.

Types of Angola Visas

Angola offers a range of visas tailored to meet the needs of different travelers. Each visa type is designed for a specific purpose, and applicants must provide supporting documents to prove their eligibility.

1. Tourist Visa

• Purpose: Issued for leisure, cultural, or recreational visits.
• Duration: Valid for 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days.
• Restrictions: Holders cannot engage in paid activities.
• Requirements:
  • Passport valid for at least six months.
  • Accommodation details (hotel reservations or an invitation letter).
  • Proof of sufficient funds.
  • Return flight ticket.
  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

2. Business Visa

• Purpose: For attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
• Duration: Same as the tourist visa.
• Restrictions: Does not allow employment or establishment of residence.
• Requirements:
  • Invitation letter from a business partner in Angola.
  • Proof of purpose for the trip (e.g., meeting agenda).
  • Financial proof and return ticket.

3. Work Visa

• Purpose: For individuals employed in Angola under a work contract.
• Duration: Matches the employment contract, renewable as required.
• Requirements:
  • Employment contract.
  • Company sponsorship letter.
  • Additional permits as required by Angolan labor law.

4. Residence Visa

• Purpose: For foreign nationals planning to live permanently in Angola.
• Requirements:
  • Proof of financial stability.
  • Documentation of housing arrangements.
  • Reason for residency (e.g., family reunification, investment).

5. Transit Visa

• Purpose: For travelers passing through Angola en route to another destination.
• Duration: Valid for up to 5 days.
• Requirements:
  • Proof of onward travel.
  • Valid visa or entry permit for the next destination.

6. Short-Term Visa

• Purpose: Short visits of up to 7 days for urgent purposes.
• Requirements:
  • Similar to the tourist visa.
  • Application must demonstrate the necessity of the visit.

7. Privileged Visa

Angola Privileged Visa is designed for foreign nationals who are investors, representatives, or attorneys of investing companies, facilitating their entry into Angola to implement and manage approved investment projects in line with the Private Investment Law.

8. Student Visa

General Entry Requirements

• Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and have at least two blank pages.
• Proof of Accommodation: Travelers may need to provide evidence of accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Angola.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Visitors must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover their stay, typically equivalent to USD 200 per day.

Angola e-Visa System

The Angola e-Visa is a user-friendly online system that simplifies the visa application process for eligible travelers. It is particularly useful for those traveling for short-term purposes, such as tourism or business.

Features of the Angola e-Visa

• Available to citizens from over 60 countries, including the United States, European Union member states, China, and India.
• Applicants receive pre-approval electronically, which they present at the border to obtain a visa on arrival.
• Valid for 60 days from issuance and permits a 30-day stay, extendable once.

e-Visa Application Process

1. Online Submission: Complete the application form at the official portal (smevisa.gov.ao).
2. Document Upload: Provide passport copies, photographs, travel itinerary, Yellow Fever certificate, proof of accommodation, and return ticket.
3. Payment: Pay the visa fee online using accepted payment methods.
4. Processing Time: Typically takes 5–7 business days.
5. Approval: Receive the e-Visa approval via email.
6. Entry: Present the e-Visa approval at the airport or border point for verification.

Angola’s Participation in Joint Visa Schemes

Angola is part of the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Transfrontier Conservation Area, a regional initiative with Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The participating countries are working to expand the Univisa Scheme, a common tourist visa allowing seamless travel across borders within the region. Angola’s involvement aims to boost tourism by simplifying regional travel.

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.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejections

• Incomplete Documentation: Missing required documents like accommodation details or a Yellow Fever certificate.
• Invalid Passport: Passports with less than six months of validity are not accepted.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: Failing to demonstrate funds for the duration of the stay.
• Incorrect Visa Type: Applying for the wrong visa based on travel purpose.
• Criminal Record: Background checks may reveal issues affecting eligibility.

Angola Visa Fees

• Tourist Visa: $100–$150
• Business Visa: $150–$200
• Work Visa: $200–$300
• e-Visa Fees: $100–$120 (depending on nationality)

Extending an Angola Visa

• Eligible Visas: Tourist, business, and short-term visas.
• Duration: Typically one extension of 30 days.
• Process: Submit an extension request at Angola’s immigration office before the visa expires. Fees apply.

Immigration Rules Upon Entry

• Immigration officers may request additional documents, including proof of travel plans and financial resources.
• Travelers must present their Yellow Fever certificate at the border.

How to Apply for an Angola Visa

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for an Angola visa:

1. Identify the Visa Type: Determine which visa you need (tourist, business, work, etc.).
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documentation (passport, photos, invitation letters, etc.).
3. Complete the Application: Fill out the visa application form (online or paper).
4. Submit Your Application: Submit the application to the nearest Angolan embassy, consulate, or through the online platform if applying for an eVisa.
5. Pay the Visa Fee: Visa fees vary based on nationality and visa type.
6. Attend Visa Interview: Some visa types require an interview at the consulate.
7. 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).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for visiting Angola and is often a visa requirement. Comprehensive coverage should include:

• Emergency medical expenses.
• Repatriation costs.
• Trip cancellations or delays.

FAQs