Guide to Residency in Angola

Obtaining a residency visa in Angola is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Angola gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Please note that the following instructions are a general guide and the actual process may vary. It is always best to consult with the Angolan embassy or consulate, or a legal expert in Angolan immigration law for the most current and detailed information. Here is a general outline of the steps you might take to obtain residency status in Angola: ```html

• Research Angolan Residency Requirements
  • Visit the official website of the Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the Angolan embassy in your country to understand the types of residency visas available and their specific requirements.
  • Identify the type of residency visa that applies to your situation (e.g., work, investment, family reunion).
• Gather Necessary Documentation
  • Prepare your passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in Angola.
  • Obtain a criminal record certificate from your country of origin or where you have resided for the last year.
  • Acquire proof of accommodation in Angola, such as a rental agreement or property deed.
  • Get a health certificate from a recognized health institution, proving you are free from contagious diseases.
  • Collect any additional documents that may be required based on the type of visa you are applying for, such as proof of employment or investment.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the official website of the General Tax Administration of Angola (AGT) AGT to learn about the process of obtaining a tax number (NIF).
  • Prepare the necessary documents, which typically include a copy of your passport and visa application form.
  • Submit your application at a local tax office in Angola or through a legal representative in Angola.
• Submit Visa Application
  • Complete the residency visa application form, which can be obtained from the Angolan consulate or embassy.
  • Attach all the gathered documents, including your tax number, to your application.
  • Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant's nationality.
  • Submit your application to the nearest Angolan consulate or embassy, or through an authorized visa service agency.
• Wait for Visa Approval
  • After submitting your application, wait for the processing period, which can take several weeks or months.
  • Track your application status if possible through the embassy or consulate's website or by contacting them directly.
• Enter Angola
  • Once your residency visa is approved, make travel arrangements to enter Angola.
  • Ensure you have all the necessary documents for entry, including your visa and passport.
• Apply for a Residence Permit
  • After arriving in Angola, you must apply for a residence permit at the Angolan Ministry of Interior's Migration and Foreigners Service (SME).
  • Submit the required documents, which may include your passport, visa, proof of accommodation, and tax number.
  • Pay the residence permit fee and submit biometric data as part of the application process.
• Receive Residence Card
  • Once your residence permit application is approved, you will receive a residence card, which is typically valid for one year and can be renewed.
  • Keep your residence card with you at all times as proof of your legal status in Angola.

``` Remember to check for any updates to the process or requirements, as immigration policies can change. It is also advisable to have all documents translated into Portuguese, as this is the official language of Angola.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Angola?

"To visit Angola, foreigners must first acquire a visa. As of June 2019, the application process requires an online form to be filled in, followed by payment of the visa fee and uploading of relevant documentation. This includes an application form, a copy of a valid passport, proof of previous travel within the Schengen Area, and two passport sized photos. After the application is submitted, the documents are verified and the decision on the visa application may take up to 60 days. To apply for residency in Angola, applicants must first register at one of the country’s Inmigration and Passports Offices. The application process includes submission of various documents such as a valid passport, a marriage certificate (if applicable), a doctor’s certificate, a certificate of good health, proof of financial support, employment contract, and others if necessary. As of June 2019, the residency application process is expected to take from six months to one year," commented one member living in Angola.