Angola’s growth in recent years has seen huge investment from abroad in its mining and oil sectors. Salaried jobs open to expats are often very well paid, although living costs in the capital are amongst the highest in the world.
Since the end of the civil war in 2002, Angola has been able to increase its oil extraction to overtake Algeria; making it the second largest petroleum producing nation in Africa, just behind Nigeria. This is in part down to the levels of investment by foreign firms, who have taken commercial advantage of the post-war stability, and also hugely valuable trade agreements with major nations.
Other key industries include diamond mining and the extraction of various metals, in particular, gold, copper and bauxite. Construction projects financed by foreign corporations, such as the improvements to roads by Brazilian firm Odebrecht, and Chinese housing construction are also contributing to high growth rates.
The majority of the native working population is still employed in agriculture and tobacco farming. So, whilst certain industries must employ qualified Angolans over expats, the need for highly skilled engineers, technicians and consultants means there are plenty of openings for foreign nationals.
Most expats on long-term contracts with major firms are housed in secure communities and compounds in the suburbs of Luanda. Security and drivers are usually provided by contracting companies
Expats travelling to Angola with family should know that accompanying spouses and dependents are not permitted to work in Angola without their own work visa.