Angola

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 111 or 113 for police.
• Dial 111 for emergency service.
• Dial 112 for ambulance service.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Consider enrolling in STEP for accurate and timely information during an emergency. 

Crime

Petty crimes, assaults, and armed robberies are common. Other crimes, like burglary, occur with less frequency.

• In many cases, 2 people on a motorcycle follow and rob their victim, sometimes at gunpoint.
• Criminals may target individuals driving or walking alone.
• Drive with windows up and doors locked. Criminals utilizing motorcycles often take advantage of heavy traffic to maneuver between lanes and steal items through open vehicle windows.  
• Pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and thefts from vehicles occur in tourist spots. Do not display expensive jewelry, electronics, mobile phones, and other items of value in public places.
• Be alert and cognizant of your surroundings when using ATMs and departing banks and shopping centers, especially during the holiday season. 
• The embassy has received reports of armed robbery attempts in the Miramar neighborhood and along the serpentine roads near the embassy. Avoid walking in these areas alone and after dark.
• Tourists are often approached by children asking for money or food. Often the group will increase in size and become more persistent with their requests if the tourist stops. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Angola. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers often pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 111 or 113.

• Due to the prevalence of HIV and AIDS, victims of violent crime, especially rape, are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical assistance. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys but, instead, offer a list of English-speaking attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Note if drones, satellite phones, or other technology are illegal or restricted.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.
• Use of GPS devices or maps near government buildings or infrastructure is illegal.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Roads and bridges are generally in poor condition. This is common for secondary and tertiary roads.
• There is a risk from landmines and unexploded ordnance, especially near bridges and alongside unpaved roads outside major cities. Many areas of the countryside remain mined.
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. 
• You may be taken in for questioning by the police if you do not show an acceptable form of identification or passport.
• Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs result in long prison sentences and big fines. 
• Photography: It is illegal to take pictures or use binoculars, maps, drones, or GPS near government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure. Angolan law defines key infrastructure broadly. It includes historic or abandoned train stations, airfields, and bridges of all sizes. You could be fined, have your equipment taken away, and risk being detained or arrested. Do not take photos of people without their permission. 
• Libel and slander: Disrespecting government officials is illegal and can lead to detention or expulsion from the country.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Angola seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Detention conditions

Angolan prisons are not up to U.S. standards. 

• Prisons are often overcrowded and offer poor medical care, food, and sleeping conditions.
• There are reports of violence at the hands of both fellow prisoners and guards. 
• The Angolan government also acknowledges excessive pretrial detention.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Angola.
• However, societal biases against sexual orientation can lead to discrimination, violence, and abuse. 
• Same-sex couples have been harassed.
• Travelers should be cautious prior to meeting someone from an online dating application due to the possibility of harassment and violence.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Angola prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, or mental disabilities. The law is not consistently enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
• Contact the U.S. embassy in Angola to receive a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• A student visa is required to attend university in Angola. Please visit Angola Visa Requirements to learn more about the process. 
• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Statistics on prosecutions for violence against women are not available.
• Most rape cases are not prosecuted.
• Victims can reach out to domestic violence counseling centers, shelters, and treatment centers, and get free legal help.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

There are credible reports of:

• Arbitrary or unlawful killings.
• Cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
• Arbitrary arrest or detention.
• Serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including threats of violence against journalists, unjustified arrests or prosecutions of journalists, or censorship.
• Child marriage.
• Prohibiting independent trade unions or significant or systematic restrictions on workers’ freedom of association.
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Angola Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• Prophylactic malarial medication should be considered in consultation with your physician prior to travel to Angola.
• Emergency response and medical treatment is not widely available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 111 for emergency medical services.
• Dial 112 for an ambulance.
• Dial 111 or 113 for police.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are:

• Not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except in Luanda.
• Not equipped with the latest medical equipment.
• Not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a UGO taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.
• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Angola. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Angolan hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Travelers are required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination when traveling from or via countries with risk for yellow fever transmission. U.S. travelers may be requested to show proof of yellow fever vaccination when requesting a visa or attempting to enter Angola, regardless of their country of departure.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Medical facilities and services, including emergency care, are severely limited outside of Luanda. They do not meet U.S. standards.
• In Luanda, some private clinics offer modern medical equipment, internationally trained staff, and 24-hour emergency services including ambulances.
• Quality and consistency of medical care vary greatly, even at private clinics.
• Hospitals and doctors require cash payment upfront prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not available.
• It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in Angolan hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight [in non-emergency wards]. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• While assisted reproductive technology (ART) is legally available in Angola, accessibility to such treatments is limited.
• Surrogacy is not legally recognized in Angola.
• If you are considering traveling to Angola to have a child through use of ART or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not potable. 
• Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Review the CDC on how to make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Angola.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow page.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Major roads between Luanda and the provincial capitals are improving, but road conditions remain poor.
• There are limited or no sidewalks and pedestrian roads.
• People and animals often walk on roadsides or interfere with traffic.
• Large potholes reduce driving speeds and may limit main roads to single lanes.
• Drunk driving is a problem.
• Other hazards include:
  • Potholes
  • Ignored or non-working traffic signals
  • Speeding and erratic driving habits
  • Poorly maintained vehicles with no headlights, taillights, or brake lights
• During the rainy season from November to April, roads and bridges become impassable. Landmines may be displaced to roadways from known minefields.
• When driving outside of Luanda, most major routes are paved. There are gas stations and roadside services.
• Driving during daylight hours is recommended. Avoid driving outside of urban areas at night. 
• A 4-wheel-drive vehicle may be needed on secondary roads outside of Luanda.
• Some roads are often unpaved and are impassable with a low-clearance vehicle.
• In the event of an automobile accident, remain at the scene until police arrive. If a crowd gathers or you feel in danger, leave the scene and go to the nearest police station to report the incident. 
• Do not stop at the scene of an accident where people have gathered. Mobs can develop quickly.
• Driving as part of a caravan or group is recommended in case of a vehicle breakdown.  Carry spare parts with you, including tires.

Landmines 

Use caution in remote areas or off main roads outside Luanda. Landmines are most common in the southern provinces, including:

• Bie
• Cuando
• Cubango
• Cuanza Sul
• Moxico
• Huila

Traffic laws

• You will need an international driving permit or Angolan driver’s license to drive. You may use a U.S. license for up to 1 month

Checkpoints

Both in and around Luanda, police set up spontaneous roadblocks to check vehicle documentation. They may also ask for bribes or request immediate payment for alleged minor infractions. Police and military officials are sometimes undisciplined. Avoid challenging their authority.

• Make sure all vehicle documentation is available for inspection. 
• Resist paying bribes. Politely ask for a ticket or for the officer’s name and badge number if no violation is alleged. Ask to contact the U.S. embassy if you are not let go.
• Remain inside your vehicle with doors locked. Open your window slightly to communicate. 
• Carry color photocopies of your passport and other identity documents to show to security or police officials. 
• Report any incident to the U.S. embassy.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Embassy staff are permitted to use the UGO rideshare service. 
• Shared and public taxis are not recommended due to safety concerns. 

Public and commercial transportation

• Most public transportation is unregulated, unreliable, and generally unsafe.
• Avoid public transportation in multi-passenger vans known as candongueiros. Avoid motorcycles, known as taxistas.
• Only hire private transport from reliable sources.
• U.S. embassy personnel are only authorized to use UGO ride service.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Angola’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Angola should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

Weather and natural disasters

• Flooding – Common particularly in Luanda from November to April. Some roads become impassable after even a small amount of rain.
• Severe thunderstorms – Possible during the rainy season. 

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates