Work Visa for Angola — Full Guide (2025)
Moving to Angola for a job? This guide walks you through eligibility, documents, the step-by-step consular application, processing times, what to do after you land, and common refusal reasons — all in one place.
Need related info? See Money Exchange · Essential Arrival Tips · Official Visits: Dress & Rules
Who Is Eligible?
- You have a confirmed job offer from an Angolan employer (signed contract).
- Your employer can provide company documents required by the consulate.
- You meet health and character requirements (medical certificate + clean criminal record).
Documents Checklist
- Passport (valid; with spare pages) & passport photos (per consulate specs).
- Signed employment contract stating salary, housing, transport, and benefits.
- Criminal-record certificate (apostilled/legalised if required by your consulate).
- Medical certificate per consular instructions.
- Employer’s supporting letters + company registration/tax docs (as requested).
- Completed application forms and consular fees (receipt).
Tip: keep scanned PDFs of everything and bring printed copies to your appointment.
Step-by-Step Application
- Secure a written offer. Confirm contract details (role, term, salary, housing/transport/benefits).
- Collect documents. Passport, photos, contract, criminal record, medical certificate, employer docs.
- Check your consulate’s process. Some require online pre-application and a scheduled appointment.
- Submit and pay fees. Apply in your country of residence; keep the receipt and a copy of your file.
- Await decision. Processing can take several weeks; respond quickly to any additional requests.
- Receive visa & travel. Verify visa details match your passport and contract data before flying.
Processing Time, Validity & Extensions
- Processing time: often several weeks (varies by consulate and season).
- Validity: commonly issued for 12 months, renewable while your contract remains valid.
- Multiple entries: terms are consulate-specific; verify on issuance.
After You Arrive in Angola
- Register within 30 days with the relevant immigration authority as stated on your visa.
- Carry your passport and work-visa documentation when completing formalities with your employer.
- Keep copies of your registration/receipts together with your contract.
Also useful: Money Exchange · Arrival Tips
Bringing Your Family
Family reunification is usually handled under residence permits. Requirements vary (relationship proof, sufficient means, health/police certificates).
Common Refusal Reasons
- Applying with incomplete or inconsistent documents (names/dates don’t match, missing apostilles).
- Trying to work on a tourist visa or relocating before the work visa is issued.
- Missing the 30-day registration after arrival.
Practical Tips
- Ask your employer for a document list by consulate — requirements differ by country.
- Book your consular appointment early; bring printed copies + digital backups.
- Double-check your personal details across all documents (spelling, dates, passport number).
Work Visa — FAQs
Can I switch from tourist to work visa inside Angola?
This is generally not recommended. Apply for the correct work visa at an Angolan embassy/consulate before travelling.
How long is the work visa valid?
Commonly issued for about 12 months and renewable while your contract remains valid (confirm on issuance).
Do I need to register after arrival?
Yes — typically within 30 days with the immigration authority indicated on your visa.
Information for general guidance only — always verify with an Angolan embassy/consulate or your employer. Rules and processing requirements can change.