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 Madagascar. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

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

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences and trade shows
• Tour a company facility
• Develop business contacts

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

All nationals require a Short-Term Business Visa  to enter Madagascar to conduct business activities and must obtain it upon arrival at the airport  or from a Malagasy Consulate or Embassy prior to travel.

Working in Madagascar

What sorts of activities require a work visa?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Malagasy law. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered work in Madagascar.

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning or implementation
• Marketing
• Auditing

If I am traveling to Madagascar for work, what type of work visa do I need?

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Madagascar, and the nature of your work. The most common Malagasy work visa is the Work Visa & Worker Card (long-term work visa).

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

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work visa requirement in Madagascar.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization eligibility entail careful consideration of many factors. 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.