Essential Arrival Tips
Planning your first trip to Angola? Whether you’re visiting for business, adventure, or to see friends and family, landing in a new country can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time on the African continent.
This guide covers what to do before and after landing at Luanda’s new international airport: required documents, internet/SIM, money, and transport into the city — so your arrival is smooth and stress-free.
Make sure your passport is:
- Valid for at least 6 months
- In good condition
- With at least one blank page for the entry stamp
- Also called the “Yellow Card” / International Certificate of Vaccination.
- Must be signed and stamped by an official medical authority.
- No certificate? You may be refused entry or required to vaccinate at the airport (possible delays).
- If you’re on the list, print Presidential Decree No. 189/23 and highlight your country.
- Useful at immigration or at departure if airline staff aren’t up to date.
- Offline translation (Portuguese is the main language).
- Offline navigation (mobile data can be patchy on arrival).
Popular options: Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi, Nomad. If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, consider a physical international SIM.
Reminder: some visas/residence pathways require registration within 30 days after arrival — check your entry conditions.
Short overview to help you land ready.
- Call a ride
- Check directions
- Contact your hotel or Airbnb
- Use ATMs inside the airport (international fees may apply).
- Visit a currency exchange booth (rates may be weaker).
- Tip: If possible, wait and exchange in the city — rates are often better.
Contact: 00244 943 130 500 (WhatsApp available)
Note: Paid services; costs vary by request.
Information for general guidance only — always verify with an Angolan embassy/consulate. Requirements and eligible nationalities can change.