Angola Travel & Relocation Guide

Africa's Oil Giant — Beaches, Waterfalls & Kizomba

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Does Angola tax my worldwide income?

Angola's personal income tax is broadly territorial and focuses on income from work performed in Angola. Foreign-source income of a foreign worker is generally outside IRT, but business and self-employment rules can be complex — get local advice for cross-border income.

How is my salary tax collected?

Through PAYE withholding. Your employer deducts the 3% INSS contribution and then IRT each month and remits both to the authorities, so most employees do not file a separate return.

What is a NIF and do I need one?

The NIF is your tax identification number issued by the AGT. You need it to work, open a bank account, sign a lease and enter most contracts — get it early.

What is the VAT rate in Angola?

The standard IVA rate is 14%, with 7% for hotels and restaurants, 5% on some food and agricultural goods, and 1% for goods in Cabinda.

How much social security do I pay?

Employees contribute 3% of gross salary to INSS; the employer adds 15%, for a combined 18%.

Do I need private health insurance?

Yes. Comprehensive international health insurance that includes medical evacuation is strongly recommended for expatriates, since serious cases often require treatment abroad.

Is the yellow fever vaccine really required?

Yes. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory to enter Angola for travellers over 9 months old, and you may be asked to show it.

How serious is malaria in Angola?

Malaria is common and can be life-threatening. Take prescribed prophylaxis, prevent bites, and treat any fever as a medical emergency until malaria is ruled out.

Can I get my regular medication there?

Pharmacies exist in cities but specific brands may be unavailable. Bring a sufficient supply of prescription medicines with documentation, and check import rules for controlled drugs.

Can I get by with English?

In international business and among some expatriates, yes — but daily life runs on Portuguese. Learning basic Portuguese greatly improves shopping, transport and admin.

Is Angola expensive to live in?

Imported goods and Luanda housing are very expensive, while local food and services are cheaper. Most expats rely on employer packages to offset the high costs.

How do I pay for things day to day?

Cards work at larger city merchants via Multicaixa, and the Multicaixa Express app is widely used, but carry cash in kwanza for markets, taxis and small shops.

What is the weather like?

Tropical and warm, with a hot rainy season roughly October–April and a cooler dry season (Cacimbo) around May–September; highlands are cooler than the coast.

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