Chad Travel & Relocation Guide

Sahara to Savanna — Ennedi Rock Art, Zakouma Safari & Lake Chad

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What currency do I pay tax in?

Taxes are assessed and paid in Central African CFA francs (XAF), the currency issued by the BEAC and pegged to the euro.

Am I taxed on my worldwide income?

If you are a tax resident of Chad, you are generally taxable on worldwide income; non-residents are taxed only on Chad-source income. Residence is typically based on spending more than 183 days in the country or having your main home or economic interests there.

How is my salary taxed?

Employment income is subject to the progressive IRPP, usually withheld at source by your employer, plus CNPS social security contributions.

Does Chad have double-tax treaties?

Chad's treaty network is very limited. It participates in the CEMAC regional tax convention, but comprehensive bilateral treaties are rare, so relief often depends on your home country's foreign-tax-credit rules.

What is the VAT rate?

The standard VAT (TVA) rate is 18%, with some essential items exempt or zero-rated.

Is medical evacuation insurance really necessary?

Yes. Local facilities cannot handle many serious conditions, and evacuation to Europe or a regional hub is often the only option. Insurance covering medevac is essential for anyone relocating to Chad.

Do I need any vaccination to enter?

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory and is checked on arrival. Several other vaccinations are strongly recommended by travel-health authorities.

Is malaria a risk?

Yes, Chad is a high malaria-risk country. Take antimalarial prophylaxis and use strict bite-prevention measures throughout your stay.

Where do expatriates get medical care?

Most rely on a small number of private clinics in N'Djamena for routine care, and on evacuation for anything serious.

Can I get my regular medication locally?

Pharmacies in N'Djamena carry common medicines but supply is inconsistent. Bring an adequate personal supply of any prescription drugs, along with documentation.

Can I rely on credit cards?

No. Chad is a cash economy; cards are accepted only at a few upscale venues in N'Djamena. Carry CFA francs, and consider mobile money (Airtel/Moov) for transfers.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

No. Drink bottled, boiled or filtered water only, and be careful with ice and raw foods, especially when you first arrive.

How hot does it get?

Very hot. N'Djamena regularly exceeds 40°C in the hot season before the rains. Air conditioning, hydration and sun protection are essential.

Do I need French?

Effectively yes. French is the language of business and administration, alongside Arabic. Functional French makes daily life far easier; a few words of Chadian Arabic help too.

How reliable is the internet?

Mobile data from Airtel or Moov Africa is the main option and is usable but modest in speed and reliability, best in N'Djamena. Keep a backup network and expect occasional outages.

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