Moving to Cameroon

Living in Cameroon as an expat offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and professional opportunities. The country’s diverse landscapes, from coastal beaches to mountainous terrain, are complemented by a rich cultural heritage. Expats in Cameroon can enjoy a relatively low cost of living, especially outside major cities like Douala and Yaoundé, although infrastructure may not always meet Western standards.

The expat community in Cameroon is growing, with many attracted by opportunities in sectors like oil, gas, and telecommunications. French and English are the official languages, with French being more commonly spoken. Expats may need to adapt to a slower pace of life and differing social norms, but the warmth of the Cameroonian people makes settling in a rewarding experience.

To enter Cameroon, most expatriates will need a visa, which can be obtained through the Cameroonian embassy or consulate in their home country or through a consulate in a nearby country. Visa requirements can vary depending on nationality, the purpose of travel, and the length of stay, so it’s essential to check specific guidelines before applying.

Cameroon typically requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all visitors, with a vaccination certificate needed to obtain the visa. Other health requirements may be needed, depending on the visitor’s travel history.

Generally, a work visa will require you to have a job offer from a Cameroonian employer, along with a valid work permit (that your employer will apply for on your behalf) and proof you are qualified for the role. A residence permit will typically be granted to those moving to Cameroon for long-term work, and will require you to have a valid passport, medical certificates, and other documents, such as proof of finances.

Expats in Cameroon often find opportunities in sectors such as oil and gas, telecommunications, construction, education, and healthcare. The oil and gas industry, in particular, offers roles in engineering, project management, and technical support due to the country’s rich natural resources. There is also a growing demand for IT professionals, digital marketers, and telecom specialists as the technology sector expands. The construction industry is another key area of employment, with professionals in urban planning, architecture, and project management needed to support ongoing infrastructure development.

The working culture in Cameroon is typically hierarchical, with authority respected and decisions made at the senior management level. Whilst punctuality is valued, there is often a more relaxed approach to time, especially in rural areas, and the pace of work can be slower than what expats may be used to. The workweek generally runs from 8 am to 5 pm, although times can vary depending on the sector. Communication in the workplace is usually bilingual, with both French and English spoken, and familiarity with both languages can be beneficial for expats.

Employment laws in Cameroon are governed by the Labour Code, which sets out the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees. The laws are designed to protect workers’ rights, promote fair working conditions, and regulate employment contracts. It is mandatory for all employment contracts to be written and include details such as the job description, salary, work hours, and duration of the contract. For expats, the Labour Code also requires that the employer obtain a work permit, ensuring that local workers are not displaced by foreigners unless there is a genuine skills shortage.

In terms of employee rights, the Labour Code provides for a standard workweek of 40 hours, with overtime compensation for hours worked beyond this limit. Employees are also entitled to a minimum of 15 days of paid annual leave, and maternity leave is granted to female employees for up to 14 weeks. Dismissal procedures are strictly regulated, and employers must provide just cause for termination. In addition, workers in Cameroon are entitled to social security benefits, including pensions, healthcare, and workers’ compensation, with both employees and employers making mandatory contributions.

Expats working in Cameroon are subject to local tax laws, which include income tax, social security contributions, and other levies. The taxation system in Cameroon operates on a progressive scale, with income tax rates ranging from 10% to 35%, depending on the level of earnings.

Expats will be taxed on their worldwide income, which means that income earned both within and outside of Cameroon is subject to taxation. However, there are certain tax exemptions and deductions that may apply, such as for dependents or specific work-related expenses. You should check if your home country has a tax treaty with Cameroon so you can avoid double taxation.

As well as income tax, expats are required to contribute to the national social security system, which covers pensions, healthcare, and workers’ compensation. The contribution rate for social security is generally split between the employee and employer, with the employee contributing around 3.6% of their salary. Expats will need to register with the Cameroon National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS) to ensure they are covered under the system.