If you are planning on traveling to Angola, you should know the rules and regulations governing visas. The government has limits on the amount of cash that can be taken into and out of the country, along with fines for overstaying your visa. In addition, you will need to choose a professional service to obtain a visa. There are several tips you can follow to ensure you get the visa you need.
Traveling outside Luanda and the provincial capitals
Traveling outside Luanda and the provincial capitals to get your Angola visa can be daunting. But, despite its challenging nature, it is essential to do so.
Angola’s visa requirements are set by the Angolan authorities and are strictly enforced. Those who adhere to the rules may be allowed entry or even deported. Overstayers are fined 15% of the value of the visa.
A yellow International Immunization Card is also recommended for travelers entering the country. The vaccination should be completed at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel.
Several licensed transportation companies are available in Luanda and the provincial capitals. These companies can provide passengers with an English-language service. However, their services can be expensive and limited.
Medical care in Angola is limited. Depending on your health condition, you might need specialist treatment abroad. For this reason, you should have adequate travel health insurance. Also, consider whether the destination country’s medical facilities are sufficient. Contact an emergency medical assistance company if you need urgent medical attention.
Few physicians in Angola speak English. However, healthcare quality is improving with the expansion of private hospitals.
Medical facilities are usually expensive and not readily available. In an emergency, you should have someone drive you to the hospital.
Angola has a high incidence of malaria. Before traveling, you should consult the Centre for Disease Control’s guidance webpage.
Limits on the amount of cash that can be imported and exported
The Government of Angola has recently tightened its currency movement regulations. The new law aims to strengthen the demand for kwanzas and to promote Angola’s financial sector.
For a non-resident to exit the country with foreign currency, they will need a travel document to prove that the money was paid. They also have to provide information about the destination of their next stop.
If you want to travel to Angola, you’ll need a passport. It must be valid for at least six months after your arrival date. You’ll also need a recent photo.
There are several types of passports, and each has its requirements. Some of these requirements may be more stringent than others.
The most basic rule is that a traveler must carry a certified copy of their passport and a yellow fever vaccination card. Also, an internal travel document may be required, especially if you are traveling to the country’s interior.
A letter from a private enterprise sponsoring your visa must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Angola. You also must fill out an Angola visa application.
While the “green channel” may have been touted as the best way to move cash around the country, the truth is that most personal items can only be worth about 1600 UCF (about US$860). This number does not include tobacco products, which are only allowed for travelers under 18.
There are many ATMs around the country, and you can find them in most major cities. However, if you’re traveling outside Luanda, you’ll need to pay by cheque or cash. Check one-visa.com/angola-visa-service/ to learn more about visas.
Hotels are Expensive and of Varied Quality
Few destinations in the world are as expensive as Angola. Luanda is the country’s capital, and it is considered one of the world’s most expensive cities.
Passports must be valid for a minimum of six months. In addition, you may need to show proof of vaccination for yellow fever. You do not require proof of vaccination on entry for children under twelve.
Angolan authorities have imposed restrictions on the spread of the virus. Travelers who have received the full vaccination can enter the country without quarantine. However, those with a positive COVID-19 PCR test must stay in quarantine for seven days or self-isolate in private accommodation for the same period.
There are strict security rules in place for international companies operating in Angola. Therefore, if you’re traveling with a company that operates in the country, you should read their instructions carefully.
Travelers should be aware that ATMs are often empty, and there are numerous armed robberies, including thefts of valuables. Most personal cellular phones must be reconfigured for use in Angola.
The business community and the diplomatic corps widely use printed business cards. They are also widely accepted by hotels.
Credit cards are accepted in hotels and some small businesses. However, most banks do not accept credit cards. A credit card can only be used for a limited number of purchases.