If you are in Angola and wish to stay longer than your visa allows, you might need to apply for a visa extension. Whether you’re in Angola for tourism, business, family visits, or other purposes, extending your visa can give you extra time to explore the country’s beauty, complete business projects, or fulfill personal commitments.
This guide provides everything you need to know about Angola visa extensions, from eligibility to the step-by-step application process.
What is a Visa Extension?
A visa extension is an official approval that allows a traveler to remain in a country beyond the initial validity period of their visa.
In Angola, extensions are available for certain visa types, including tourist, business, and work visas.
However, not all visas are eligible for extension, so it’s crucial to know your options before applying.
Why You Might Need a Visa Extension in Angola
Here are some common reasons travelers may need to extend their visas in Angola:
- Tourism: You want more time to explore Angola’s stunning attractions like Kalandula Falls, Quicama National Park, or the city of Luanda.
- Business: Your meetings, projects, or business dealings are taking longer than expected.
- Family Visits: You need additional time to spend with relatives living in Angola.
- Unexpected Delays: Circumstances like health issues, canceled flights, or personal emergencies require you to extend your stay.
Who is Eligible for a Visa Extension?
Not all visa holders are eligible for extensions. To qualify, you must:
- Hold a Valid Visa: Your current visa must still be valid when you apply for an extension. Overstaying your visa can result in fines or deportation.
- Meet Extension Conditions: Your visa type (tourist, business, etc.) must allow extensions. For example, tourist visas are often extendable, while some transit visas are not.
- Provide a Valid Reason: You must provide a legitimate reason for requesting additional time in Angola.
Types of Visas Eligible for Extension in Angola
Here are the main visa types eligible for extensions:
- Tourist Visa: Typically granted for short stays (30 days) and can often be extended for another 30 days.
- Business Visa: Allows extensions if the business activities require more time.
- Work Visa: Extensions depend on the type of work visa and employment contract duration.
- Family Visit Visa: Can be extended if you need more time to visit relatives.
Requirements for Angola Visa Extensions
To apply for a visa extension in Angola, you must provide the following:
- Passport: A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining and at least two blank pages for stamps.
- Original Visa: A copy of your current visa.
- Extension Application Form: A completed visa extension application form, which can be obtained from Angola’s immigration office.
- Reason for Extension: A letter explaining why you need to extend your stay.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or other documents showing you can support yourself during the extended stay.
- Accommodation Details: Hotel bookings, rental agreements, or an invitation letter from a host.
- Health Certificate: Proof of good health or valid travel insurance.
- Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for the visa extension fee.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an Angola Visa Extension
- Visit the Immigration Office: Locate the nearest Angolan immigration office. The main office is in Luanda, the capital city.
- Collect and Fill Out the Application Form: Request the visa extension application form and fill it out with accurate details.
- Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have all the required documents listed above. Make copies of your passport, visa, and other supporting documents.
- Submit Your Application: Submit the completed application form and documents at the immigration office. Pay the visa extension fee, which varies depending on the visa type and duration.
- Wait for Processing: Visa extensions typically take 5–10 business days to process. During this time, you may be asked to provide additional information.
- Receive Your Extended Visa: Once approved, you’ll receive a stamp or sticker in your passport showing the new validity period.