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Residence & citizenship

Equatoguinean Residence Permit (Residence Card)

The card that legalises a foreign national's long-term stay in Equatorial Guinea once the right to enter has been obtained, giving lawful status to remain and reside.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Residence-card validity periods, renewal cycles and fees are not published on the official pages reviewed and are not stated as figures. Verify with immigration/CENEDOGE before publishing.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Equatorial Guinea government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Residence permit / residence card (tarjeta de residencia)
Route type
In-country residence authorisation for foreign nationals
Lead authority
Directorate General of Immigration (Ministry of National Security); documents via CENEDOGE
Issuing authority
Ministry of National Security (CNDGE)
The Residence Card (Tarjeta de Residencia) is issued by the national security authorities; a first application is addressed to the Director of National Security.
Prerequisite
Approved work permit / sponsorship
Employer-sponsored applicants must first have a work permit approved (labour authorisation via the Ministry of Labour) before applying for the residence card.
Validity
Typically 1–2 years (to be confirmed)
Secondary sources describe residence permits as valid for one or two years and renewable. Confirm the exact term officially.
Entries
Multiple — allows exit and re-entry
A valid residence card lets the holder remain in, leave and re-enter Equatorial Guinea without needing a separate visa.
Where to apply
In-country, after legal entry
Applications are made while the applicant is lawfully present in Equatorial Guinea; foreign residents must also register with the nearest City Hall / local police.

Who it is for

  • Foreign nationals with an approved long-term basis to stay (work, study, family).
  • Those who need to regularise a stay beyond a short visitor visa.

Requirements

  • A valid passport and entry visa.
  • The underlying authorisation for the stay (e.g. work permit or family basis).
  • Supporting documents required by the immigration authority.

How to apply

  • Apply through the Directorate General of Immigration after arrival.
  • Obtain the residence card and renew before expiry as required.

Documents you may need

  • Application letter addressed to the Director of National Security.
  • Completed CNDGE residence-card application form.
  • Original passport or travel document showing lawful entry.
  • Three recent passport-size photographs on a white background.
  • Approved work permit / labour authorisation (for employment-based residence).
  • Vaccination certificates (yellow fever and polio are commonly required).
  • Medical examination results.
  • Police clearance / criminal-record certificate.
  • Proof of accommodation and evidence of financial means.

Frequently asked questions

  • In most cases yes. The residence system is largely employer-sponsored: your employer secures a work permit, and only then do you apply for the Residence Card (Tarjeta de Residencia). Confirm any non-employment routes with the Ministry of National Security.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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