Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Chad. In case you are unsure if 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?

Business visitors traveling to Chad may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attending business meetings
• Buying goods for sale outside the country
• Touring a company facility
• Attending a trade show, a seminar or a convention

Furthermore, foreign nationals may perform the following professional or hands-on activities for up to 90 days as a business visitor:

• Consulting
• Repair and maintenance
• System installation
• Surveying
• Auditing

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

Most nationals require a visa to enter Chad to conduct business activities. Only a few select African nationals do not require a visa and may conduct business activities as visa-waivered nationals. If your nationality is not found on the list of visa-waivered nationals, you must obtain an Entry Visa from a Chadian embassy or consulate prior to travel or, if eligible, a Visa on Arrival.

Under special circumstances where a Chadian diplomatic mission is not accessible, business travelers may be eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival.

Working in Chad

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

In Chad, the requirement for a work visa is generally determined by the duration and the nature of the work assignment. Most unremunerated activities can be conducted for up to 90 days on an Entry Visa or a Visa Waiver, if applicable. All foreign nationals intending to perform work activities in Chad for more than 90 days per year require a Work Permit, regardless of whether they are local hires or assignees.

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

All foreign nationals intending to perform work activities in Chad for more than 90 days per year require a Work Permit, regardless of whether they are local hires or assignees. Additionally, a Work Permit requires the sponsorship of a local entity in Chad.

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

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

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization 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.