Work Visa for Angola — Full Guide (2025)
Eligibility, documents, consular process, timelines, and what to do after you land.
Who is eligible?
- A confirmed job offer and signed contract with an Angolan employer.
- Your employer can provide the corporate documents requested by the consulate.
- You meet health and character requirements (medical certificate + clean police record).
Tip: ask HR for a consulate-specific document list — requirements vary by country.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport + photos (per consulate specs).
- Signed employment contract (salary, housing, transport, benefits).
- Police clearance certificate (apostilled/legalised if required).
- Medical certificate per consular instructions.
- Employer letters + company registration/tax documents (as requested).
- Completed forms and fee payment receipt.
Tip: keep scanned PDFs of everything and bring printed copies to your appointment.
Step-by-step application
- Secure a written offer with role, term, salary, housing/transport/benefits.
- Gather documents (passport, photos, contract, police cert, medical, employer docs).
- Check your consulate’s process (online pre-application and appointment).
- Submit & pay fees in your country of residence; keep copies and the receipt.
- Wait for a decision (often several weeks); respond quickly to any extra requests.
- Verify visa details on issuance and travel.
Processing time, validity & extensions
- Processing time: often several weeks (varies by consulate and season).
- Validity: commonly around 12 months, renewable while your contract remains valid.
- Multiple entries: consulate-specific — confirm on issuance.
After you arrive in Angola
- Register within 30 days with the authority indicated on your visa.
- Carry your passport and visa paperwork for employer formalities.
- File registration receipts together with your contract.
Also helpful: Money Exchange
Arrival Tips
Bringing your family
Usually handled via residence permits (proof of relationship, sufficient means, health/police certificates).
Common refusal reasons
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation (names/dates don’t match, missing apostilles).
- Attempting to work on a tourist visa or relocating before the work visa is issued.
- Missing the 30-day registration after arrival.
Practical tips
- Ask HR for a consulate-specific list of requirements.
- Book early; bring printed copies + digital backups.
- Double-check names, dates and passport number across all documents.
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?
Often around 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 authority indicated on your visa.
Information for general guidance only — always verify with an Angolan embassy/consulate or your employer. Rules and processing can change.