Main categories

  • Temporary residence — typically issued for about 1 year, renewable when conditions remain valid (consulate/authority-specific).
  • Permanent residence — may be considered after several years of lawful stay & integration; criteria vary by authority.
  • Family reunification — spouses/partners and dependants of legal residents or work-visa holders; proof of relationship required.

Who is eligible?

  • Foreigners intending to live in Angola medium/long term (not just tourism).
  • Family members of lawful residents (spouse/partner, minor children, other dependants as permitted).
  • Applicants able to prove sufficient means and meet health/character requirements.

Documents checklist

  • Valid passport (with blank pages) & passport photos (per consulate specs).
  • Proof of means (e.g., employment/contract if applicable, bank statements, sponsor letter).
  • Accommodation proof in Angola (rental/host letter as applicable).
  • Criminal-record certificate from your country of residence (apostilled/legalised if required).
  • Medical certificate per consular instructions.
  • Family documents where relevant: marriage/birth certificates; guardianship or dependency proof (with apostille/legalisation if required).
  • Completed forms & consular fees.

Tip: requirements vary by consulate. Ask for their exact list and bring printed + digital copies.

Step-by-step application (consulate route)

  1. Confirm your category (temporary, permanent, family reunification, etc.).
  2. Collect documents (passport, photos, means, accommodation, criminal record, medical, family docs if applicable).
  3. Check your consulate’s process — many require an online pre-application and a scheduled appointment.
  4. Submit & pay fees at the Angolan embassy/consulate in your country of residence.
  5. Await decision (often several weeks). Respond quickly to additional requests.
  6. Upon approval, verify details on your permit/visa and plan your move.

After you arrive in Angola

  • Register within the stated deadline with the immigration authority indicated on your visa/permit (timeline may vary).
  • Keep copies of your registration and any receipts with your passport.
  • If your status is linked to a sponsor (spouse/parent/employer), keep their documents updated/available.

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Renewals, timelines & upgrades

  • Temporary residence is commonly issued for about 1 year and can be renewed if conditions remain valid.
  • Permanent residence may be considered after several years of lawful stay; criteria differ — confirm with authorities.
  • Apply for renewal well before expiry to avoid gaps in status.

Rights & limitations (general)

  • Residence permits allow lawful stay in Angola; specific work rights may depend on your category/sponsor.
  • Notify authorities of changes (address, marital status, sponsor employment) as required.
  • Comply with registration and renewal rules to keep your status valid.

Common refusal reasons

  • Incomplete/inconsistent documents (missing apostilles/legalisation; mismatched names/dates).
  • Insufficient proof of means or unclear accommodation.
  • Failure to meet health/character requirements.

Practical tips

  • Ask your consulate for a category-specific checklist and follow it exactly.
  • Bring printed sets of documents + scanned PDFs in a cloud/USB.
  • Double-check dates, spellings and numbers across all documents.

Residence Permits — FAQs

Can I apply inside Angola?

Procedures are typically handled by Angolan embassies/consulates abroad. Confirm with the relevant authority for your case.

How long is a temporary residence permit valid?

Frequently around 12 months, renewable if conditions remain valid — but always check the terms on issuance.

Can my spouse and children join me?

Yes via family reunification when requirements are met (proof of relationship, means, accommodation, health/police certificates).

Quick links

Planning a medium/long-term stay or joining family already in Angola? Explore more

Helpful tools:
Money Exchange Essential Arrival Tips Official Visits: Dress & Rules
Information for general guidance only. Always confirm requirements with an Angolan embassy/consulate or the immigration authority; procedures can change.