Equatorial Guinea
Profiled in Malabo · Central Africa
A Spanish-speaking oil state split between a volcanic island capital and a mainland enclave, with a purpose-built new capital rising from the rainforest at Ciudad de la Paz.
Cost of living
What a month costs
One of the most expensive countries in Africa for foreigners, driven by the oil sector. Almost all consumer goods are imported.
The scores
How it rates for a moving family
See and do
Top 10 in Malabo
- Malabo Old TownSpanish colonial quarter above the harbour.
- Catedral de Santa IsabelNeo-Gothic cathedral on Malabo's Plaza de la Independencia.
- Pico BasiléVolcanic peak of three thousand metres above the capital.
- Monte Alén National ParkLowland rainforest with gorillas and forest elephants.
- Ciudad de la PazThe planned new capital under construction at Oyala.
- Arena BlancaBeach on Bioko's north coast.
- Ureca beachesAmong the world's most important leatherback nesting sites.
- Basílica de MongomoLarge basilica in the president's home town.
Where to go
Weekend escapes
- Bioko Island southTurtle beaches and cloud forest below Pico Basilé.
- BataThe mainland's largest city, on the Atlantic coast.
- Monte AlénRainforest national park on the mainland.
- CoriscoSmall island with white-sand beaches.
- UrecaRemote village with black-sand turtle nesting beaches.
Residency
Residence follows work permits tied to the hydrocarbon sector. Entry is heavily controlled, there is no investor route, and Spanish is the dominant working language.
Tax
Personal and corporate rates are both 35%, with 15% VAT and a minimum turnover tax. Hydrocarbons dominate revenue. There is no wealth or inheritance tax.
Curious what you would actually pay? See the Equatorial Guinea tax profile: income, corporate, VAT and exit rules →
Nearby
More of Central Africa
Frequently asked
How much does it cost to live in Equatorial Guinea?
About $1,600 a month for one person and $3,400 for a family. A one-bedroom flat rents for around $1,000, and a casual meal costs about $15. One of the most expensive countries in Africa for foreigners, driven by the oil sector. Almost all consumer goods are imported.
Is Equatorial Guinea safe, and what is healthcare like?
In our index safety scores 5 out of 10 and healthcare 3 out of 10, where 10 is best.
What language and currency are used in Equatorial Guinea?
Spanish, French and Portuguese. The currency is Central African CFA franc (XAF).
What is the capital of Equatorial Guinea?
Malabo.
How can a foreigner get residency in Equatorial Guinea?
Residence follows work permits tied to the hydrocarbon sector. Entry is heavily controlled, there is no investor route, and Spanish is the dominant working language.
What taxes does Equatorial Guinea charge?
Personal and corporate rates are both 35%, with 15% VAT and a minimum turnover tax. Hydrocarbons dominate revenue. There is no wealth or inheritance tax.