Angola: Travel Requirements, Health & Medical Insurance
Since the 2018 immigration reform, Angola has notably eased entry for foreigners: most nationalities can apply for an e-visa before the trip or get a visa on arrival at the main entry points. One requirement that remains strict and unavoidable is the international yellow fever vaccination certificate, required of all travelers aged 9 months and older, with no exception by nationality of origin.
The currency is the Angolan kwanza (AOA). There is malaria risk throughout the territory, so antimalarial prophylaxis and repellent are recommended. Emergency numbers vary depending on the source consulted and the region of the country, so it is worth confirming the current local number on arrival, for example through your hotel or embassy.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Since the 2018 reform, most nationalities can apply for an e-visa or a visa on arrival; a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter.
Health & travel insurance: There is malaria risk throughout the country and a yellow fever certificate is required; private care in Luanda is reasonable but costly, so insurance with evacuation coverage is highly advisable.
Visa and Entry Requirements
The e-visa is applied for on the official Angolan immigration portal before the trip; some nationalities can also opt for a visa on arrival at Luanda airport. The yellow fever certificate must be presented physically upon entry, and its absence may result in quarantine or mandatory vaccination right at the airport.
- International yellow fever vaccination certificate, administered at least 10 days before the trip.
- E-visa or visa on arrival arranged according to your nationality.
- Antimalarial prophylaxis recommended due to malaria risk throughout the country.
Health, Hospitals, and Medical Insurance
Luanda has private clinics aimed at expatriates with an acceptable standard, but costs are high and payment is usually required upfront. Outside the capital, specialized medical care is scarce, so evacuation to another country may be necessary in severe cases.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in Angola; the code MEDALLOADV2023 gives a discount when you get a quote for the plan.
Transportation and Currency
The currency is the Angolan kwanza (AOA). Traffic in Luanda is notoriously heavy, and for long trips between provinces, domestic flights are usually more practical than roads.
When to Travel
The dry season, locally known as cacimbo (May to October), offers cooler temperatures and less rain, making it the best time to travel. The rainy season (November to April) can make road transport difficult in some areas.
Travel checklist for Angola
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Angola.
- Check the visa requirement for Angola based on your passport: Since the 2018 reform, most nationalities can apply for an e-visa or a visa on arrival; a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: There is malaria risk throughout the country and a yellow fever certificate is required; private care in Luanda is reasonable but costly, so insurance with evacuation coverage is highly advisable.
- Save Angola's emergency number: Numbers vary by source and region; it is worth confirming the current local number with your hotel or embassy on arrival., along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Angolan kwanza (AOA)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the yellow fever vaccine mandatory to enter Angola?
Yes, the international vaccination certificate is required of all travelers aged 9 months and older, with no exception.
What is the emergency number in Angola?
There is no single number consistently confirmed across all sources; it is recommended to confirm the current local number on arrival with your hotel or embassy.
Is there malaria risk in Angola?
Yes, throughout the territory; antimalarial prophylaxis and mosquito protection measures are recommended.
What currency should I use in Angola?
The Angolan kwanza (AOA); it is the currency used day-to-day in shops and local transportation.
