Immigration Law at Angola
Immigration law in Angola is governed by the Angolan Migration and Foreigners Law (Law No. 13/19 of May 23, 2019), which replaced earlier legislation to modernize and regulate the legal status of foreign citizens. Here’s an overview of Angola’s immigration system:
🛂 Types of Visas in Angola
Angola offers several visa categories depending on the purpose of stay:
1. Tourist Visa
Valid for 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days.
Not valid for work purposes.
Issued for tourism or visiting family/friends.
2. Short-Term Visa
Valid for up to 7 days (non-renewable).
Suitable for urgent business or transit.
Can be used for brief professional activities.
3. Ordinary Visa
For temporary stays such as family visits, business, research, or study.
Valid for 60 days, renewable twice.
4. Work Visa
For foreigners with employment contracts in Angola.
Valid for up to 1 year, renewable.
Must be sponsored by an Angolan company.
Allows for repeated entries.
The holder must stay in Angola for at least 185 days a year.
5. Temporary Stay Visa
For various purposes like accompanying a family member, medical treatment, religious activities, or studying.
Duration varies by purpose.
Renewable as long as the original purpose remains valid.
6. Residence Permit / Permanent Residency
After several years of legal residence (typically 10+), foreigners can apply for permanent residency.
Requires proof of integration, clean criminal record, and economic self-sufficiency.
👨👩👧👦 Family Reunification
Available to spouses, children, and dependents of legal residents or Angolan citizens.
Requires adequate housing and financial support.
⚖️ Key Immigration Rules
Overstaying a visa can result in fines or bans.
Foreign workers must have valid work permits and employment contracts.
Illegal immigration is taken seriously and can lead to detention or deportation.
All foreigners must register with the local authorities after entry.
💼 Business and Investment Immigration
Angola encourages foreign investment, especially in oil, gas, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Investors may apply for special visas with facilitated processes.
📌 Important Notes
Language: Portuguese is the official language, and many documents must be translated.
Medical Exams: Often required for long-term visas and work permits.
Documentation: Applications require valid passports, photos, proof of purpose, financial support, and sometimes police clearance.
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