Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require a work permit depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Cameroon. If you are not sure whether your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

As business visitors, travelers to Cameroon may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attending business meetings
• Internal training (whether facilitator or recipient)
• Buying goods for sale outside the country
• Touring a company facility
• Attending a trade show, a seminar or a convention
• Investment activities in all sectors
• Real estate development and acquisition

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Cameroon?

Most nationals require a Short-Stay Visa to enter Cameroon to conduct business activities and must obtain it from a Cameroonian embassy or consulate prior to travel. Only a few select African nationals do not require a visa to enter Cameroon to conduct business activities.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers to Cameroon.

Working in Cameroon

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Cameroon’s laws. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered work in Cameroon, even if conducted for a short duration.

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning and implementation
• Installation and testing of software
• Management consultancy

If I am traveling to Cameroon for work, what type of work permit do I need?

All foreign nationals wishing to engage in active, productive work in Cameroon must secure work authorization. The Work Permit (skilled professionals work permit) is the most commonly issued type of work authorization for Cameroon. It must be sponsored by a local entity in Cameroon.

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work permit requirement in Cameroon.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or visa waiver eligibility entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2019 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.

Updated Jan. 3, 2019.