IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Angola has extended its visa on arrival program to tourists from 61 countries.

What does the change mean? Business activities are not permitted on the visas on arrival; business travelers from the 61 countries will still be required to apply for a business visa.

  • Implementation time frame: March 30.
  • Visas/permits affected: Visas on arrival.
  • Who is affected: Nationals of the 61 designated countries.
  • Impact on processing times: Tourists will save time because they will not need to apply for a visa at an Angolan consulate before travel.
  • Business impact: Business travelers should be aware that the visas on arrival are only for tourists.

Background: The expansion of the visas on arrival was announced on the state-owned Rádio Nacional de Angola. The list of 61 countries is forthcoming. Much of Angola’s infrastructure was destroyed during the post-colonial civil war period, from1975 to 2002, and the country’s tourism industry is therefore relatively new. The current visa liberalization scheme is intended to boost the sector, and the Angolan government is seeking to create 1 million tourism-related jobs by 2020. To secure the visa on arrival, which will be valid for 30 days, foreign nationals must produce their passport, accommodation booking, evidence of finances, a return airline ticket and an international vaccination certificate. A letter of invitation will not be required.

BAL Analysis: Although the visa liberalization scheme should be viewed as positive, it will have little immediate impact on foreign nationals conducting business activities in Angola. Business travelers are reminded that they must continue to apply for a business visa at an Angolan diplomatic post if conducting business activities, or a work permit for work activities.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact africa@bal.com.

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