Moving to Gabon

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the visa and residence permit process for Gabon depends significantly on your nationality. Citizens from certain regions, such as the European Union, may have different entry requirements compared to those from non-EU countries. The most common routes for obtaining a long-term stay permit include work permits, family reunification permits, study permits, and general residence permits.

For a work permit, you will typically need a sponsoring employer in Gabon. Family permits are for those joining a spouse or parent already residing in Gabon. Study permits require acceptance into a recognized educational institution. Residence permits are for individuals who meet specific criteria for long-term stay without employment or family ties.

It is crucial to verify the most current requirements, necessary documentation, and application procedures directly with the official Gabonese embassy or consulate in your home country, or with the relevant immigration authorities in Gabon. Regulations can change, so always consult the official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Housing & Rental

Finding suitable housing in Gabon often involves a mix of online searches, local real estate agents, and word-of-mouth recommendations. Popular platforms for rentals may exist, but local agents often have the most comprehensive listings, especially for expatriate-standard accommodation.

The typical rental process usually begins with identifying properties that meet your needs and budget. Viewings are arranged, and once a property is selected, a rental agreement is drawn up. Lease terms are commonly for one year, renewable. Expect to pay a security deposit, often equivalent to one or two months' rent, in addition to the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also request an advance payment for several months of rent.

For temporary housing upon arrival, serviced apartments or short-term rentals are available in major cities like Libreville and Port-Gentil. These can provide a comfortable base while you search for a long-term solution. Be prepared for a competitive market, especially for higher-quality housing, and factor in utilities which are often separate from the rent.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of your relocation to Gabon is influenced by several key factors. The volume and weight of your belongings are primary determinants; the more you ship, the higher the cost. The distance of the move, specifically the origin country to Gabon, also plays a significant role due to international shipping logistics.

The season in which you move can impact pricing, with peak seasons sometimes incurring higher rates. Accessibility at both your origin and destination addresses can affect costs; for instance, if specialized equipment or additional labor is needed for narrow streets or high-rise buildings. Finally, any extra services you opt for, such as professional packing, unpacking, storage, or customs clearance assistance, will add to the overall expense.

For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs, it is always best to request a free, no-obligation quote.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-planned relocation typically spans 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of your move.

• 8 Weeks Before:
  • Declutter your home. Decide what to sell, donate, or discard.
  • Start researching visa and residence permit requirements.
  • Obtain quotes from relocation service providers.
• 6 Weeks Before:
  • Confirm your relocation service provider and book your move date.
  • Begin gathering essential documents: passports, birth certificates, marriage licenses, medical records, academic transcripts, and professional references. Keep originals secure and make multiple copies, both physical and digital.
  • Notify your landlord (if renting) or begin preparing your home for sale.
• 4 Weeks Before:
  • Arrange for utilities disconnection at your current home and connection at your new home in Gabon (if possible remotely, otherwise plan for upon arrival).
  • Notify banks, insurance companies, and other service providers of your change of address.
  • Start packing non-essential items. Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room.
• 2 Weeks Before:
  • Confirm travel arrangements to Gabon.
  • Pack a "survival kit" for your first few days in Gabon, including essential toiletries, medications, important documents, a change of clothes, and chargers.
  • Arrange for mail forwarding.
• 1 Week Before:
  • Confirm final details with your relocation service provider.
  • Empty refrigerator and freezer.
  • Ensure all important documents are easily accessible for travel.

Request a free quote on relocation123.com to start planning your move to Gabon today.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Gabon: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to a new country can be complex, and understanding customs regulations is key to a smooth transition. This guide will help you navigate the import process for your personal belongings when moving to Gabon.

If you're relocating as a new resident

To ensure a duty-free entry for your household goods, you'll need to obtain a special certificate from the customs head office. It's crucial to submit all required documentation to Gabon at least two weeks before your shipment arrives to allow time for processing and approval of your duty-free clearance.

What you'll need

• Copy of your valid passport.
• Original Bill of Lading (no express release) or Air Waybill.
• Original, valued inventory of your belongings, written in French, dated, and signed by you.
• Original Change of Residence Certificate, obtained from the city hall of your departure city.
• Invoices for any electrical items less than six months old.
• Your Resident Permit.
• Your Work Permit or a letter from your employer explaining your new contract in Gabon.
• A Non-Sale Certificate, which is a sworn declaration that you will not sell your personal effects in Gabon.
• BIETC (Bordereau d`Identification de Cargaison) document.

Good to know

• All new items (less than six months old) will be subject to taxes.
• A RUSID Tax of 3-4% of the CIF value applies to all imported items, even for diplomats.
• The BIETC document is compulsory. If not issued on time, a fine of approximately 50% of the freight value plus 50% of the shipment value will be applied.

Bringing special items

Vehicles

If you plan to import a motor vehicle, specific rules and taxes apply. Be aware that most used vehicles older than five years are prohibited from import, with exceptions for diplomats and French Military personnel.

What you'll need

• Original registration card.
• Copy of the owner's passport.
• Rated Original Bill of Lading (OBL).
• Car's invoice.
• Insurance certificate.
• Non-Sale Certificate.

Good to know

• For non-diplomatic vehicles, there's a tax of approximately 53% of the value assessed by customs.
• A RUSID Tax of 3-4% also applies to vehicles.
• Used vehicles older than five years are generally banned from import into Gabon.

Alcohol & tobacco

When importing alcohol, only items declared as "fond de cave" (cellar stock) are acceptable for duty-free entry, with a maximum limit of 20 bottles.

Restricted & prohibited items

Certain items are either restricted or completely prohibited from import.

• Firearms and ammunition: These require authorization from the territorial administration.
• Drugs: Illicit drugs are strictly prohibited.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a special certificate for my household goods to enter Gabon duty-free?
Yes, you must obtain a "certificate for free entry" from the customs head office in Gabon.

When should I submit my documents for customs clearance?
All documents should be provided to Gabon at least two weeks before your shipment arrives to ensure timely processing and duty-free clearance.

Are new items taxed differently from used items?
Yes, all new items (less than six months old) are subject to taxes.

What is the RUSID Tax?
The RUSID Tax is a 3-4% tax applied to the CIF value of all imported items, including those for diplomats.

What is the BIETC document and why is it important?
The BIETC (Bordereau d`Identification de Cargaison) is a compulsory document. Failure to issue it on time can result in significant fines, approximately 50% of the freight value plus 50% of the shipment value.

Can I import any used car into Gabon?
No, used vehicles older than five years are generally banned from import, with specific exceptions for diplomats and French Military personnel.

For further assistance with your relocation to Gabon, please contact relocation123.com.

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