Please Note: The information provided here is general and intended as an overview. Each country on the African continent has its own specific requirements for visas, residency, and entry. It is essential to carefully follow the guidelines and procedures for the country you are interested in, as doing so significantly improves your chances of visa approval.
Personalized Support: All members of the African Pioneer Movement will receive customized guidance tailored to the visa process of your selected country. We are committed to walking with you every step of the way, helping you understand the necessary documentation, timelines, and requirements to support a smooth and informed application process.
However, it is important to understand that APM does not have authority over visa outcomes. Final approval is solely at the discretion of the consulate or embassy of the country to which you are applying.
To Note: While the general information is for Black/African Americans we welcome and provide information for ALL across the Diaspora.
Choose a Country and Visa Type
Determine your purpose: work, business, retirement, study, or family reunification. Each country has its own visa categories.
Apply for the Appropriate Visa
Applications are typically made through that country's embassy or consulate in your country or via their immigration department's online portal.
Prepare Required Documents
Common requirements include:
Valid passport (usually with at least 6 months' validity)
Completed visa application
Passport-sized photos
Proof of income or financial support
Background check or police clearance
Medical clearance
Purpose-specific documents (e.g., job offer, business registration, school admission letter)
Submit Application and Fees
Processing can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several months. Some countries allow you to enter on a tourist visa and apply for residency from within.
Get Approval and Relocate
Once approved, follow the entry instructions, register with local authorities (if required), and begin your life in your new home.
Popular for: Work, retirement, study, business
Work Visa: Must have a job offer; employer often applies on your behalf.
Retirement Visa: Requires proof of passive income (e.g., pension or investment income of at least ZAR 37,000/month).
Business Visa: Requires a business plan and investment of ~ZAR 5 million (can be reduced in priority sectors).
Temporary Residence: Issued for 1–5 years, renewable.
Permanent Residency: Possible after 5 years of continuous legal residence (shorter in some cases).
Popular for: Diaspora returnees, retirees
Residence Permit: Available for employment, self-employment, or family reunion.
Right of Abode: Special status for people of African descent; allows indefinite stay and work.
Process: Apply at Ghana Immigration Service; documents include police clearance, financial proof, and purpose-specific papers.
Work Permit (Class D): For employment; employer sponsorship required.
Investor Visa (Class G): Must show $100,000+ investment in a Kenyan company.
Retirement Visa: No formal retirement visa, but long-term stay possible through Class K (ordinary residents with assured income).
Residency after 7 years is possible with legal stay.
Popular for: French-speaking Americans, pan-Africanists
Carte de Séjour (Residence Card): Needed after 90 days; renewable annually or every 5 years.
Eligibility: Retirees, business owners, or employees with contracts.
Senegal is welcoming to African diaspora, especially those relocating for cultural or community projects.
Popular for: Entrepreneurs and tech professionals
Work/Investor Visas: Rwanda is business-friendly and offers quick processing for foreign investors.
Special Permit for Diaspora Returnees: Eases the process for people of African descent returning to settle.
Long-term residency is possible through consistent renewals or special programs.
Healthcare insurance is often required.
Language: Some countries (e.g., Senegal, Ivory Coast) may require French proficiency.
Legal Residency vs. Citizenship: Permanent residency is not the same as citizenship, but it can be a path toward it over time.
Dual Citizenship: Some African countries allow it; others do not.