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 Gabon. 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 Gabon may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered business activities, if performed for less than 90 days.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences
• Attend training workshops
• Develop professional business contacts
• Negotiate business contracts

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

Most foreign nationals require a Business Visa to enter Gabon to conduct business activities and must obtain it at a Gabonese Diplomatic Post, prior to travel. Only a few select nationals do not require a visa to enter Gabon, or can obtain a visa on arrival, to conduct business activities.

Working in Gabon

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

All activities, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Gabonese law.

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

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Gabon, and the duration of your work. The most common type if work authorization is the Work Permit (direct-hire work permit).

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

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

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization entail careful consideration of many factors. Labour market testing is required in Gabon.  We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2016 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.