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DIASPORA SPACE
Discover all what the Diaspora Platform has for you
First Visit
For Cameroonians across the globe who maintain a strong connection to their roots, the Diaspora space aims to mobilize all Cameroonians abroad to amplify the development and influence of the Council, by leveraging the skills and networks of Cameroonians living abroad.
Reunite
The strengths of the diaspora, beyond all divides, united around a common cause: to develop the Council and its environs !
Convince
You represent a powerful force for boosting local development. Who is better positioned than you to drive this change ?
Advance
Progress Let's build a win-win pact, mobilizing you to invest in, develop, and promote municipality.
Opportunities for the diaspora
Invest
We invite you to present your development project for the council
Invest | Declare a project or offer your expertise. We are here to assist you!
Commit Yourself | Offer your expertise or support to assist with development projects.
FAQ
You will find the answers to all your questions below.
What are the necessary administrative steps to settle in Cameroon?
To enter Cameroon, a valid passport with at least 3 months of validity is required. French nationals and foreign nationals of Cameroonian origin must also obtain a visa. A long-stay visa (from 3 to 6 months) can be issued by the embassy of the host country. Upon expiration of this period, a residence permit becomes mandatory. The application is made on-site and takes approximately 2 months. However, the receipt provided when a complete application (including an employment contract or proof of investment) is submitted serves as a temporary residence permit.
What are the taxes in Cameroon?
The Cameroonian tax system includes several taxes and duties, which are divided into different categories:
Direct Taxes: These apply to the income and profits of individuals and businesses. They include:
Personal Income Tax (IRPP): Applied to salaries, pensions, and rental income.
Corporate Tax (IS): Levied on company profits at a rate of 30%, plus additional surcharges.
Indirect Taxes: These apply to transactions and consumption, including:
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Set at 19.25% on most goods and services.
Registration Fees: These vary depending on the type of transaction (e.g., public contracts, notarial deeds, etc.).
Specific Taxes: Certain activities are subject to specific taxes, such as:
The Business License Tax (Patente): Imposed on companies based on their turnover.
Property Tax: Applied to the owners of land and buildings.
Annual Forestry Royalties: For operators in the forestry sector.
How is the school system organized in Cameroon?
The Cameroonian school system is structured into several levels of education, influenced by the country’s colonial heritage and bilingualism:
Nursery/Preschool: Accessible from age 4, this level lasts 2 years and prepares children for primary school.
Primary Education: Mandatory from age 6, it lasts for 6 years in the Francophone sub-system and 7 years in the Anglophone sub-system. At the end of this stage, students obtain the Certificat d’Études Primaires (CEP) or the First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC).
Secondary Education: This consists of two cycles:
The first cycle (4 years in the Francophone system, 5 years in the Anglophone system) is completed with the BEPC or the GCE Ordinary Level.
The second cycle (3 years in the Francophone system, 2 years in the Anglophone system) leads to the Baccalauréat or the GCE Advanced Level.
Technical and Vocational Education: This provides specialized training with diplomas such as the CAP, Probatoire Technique, and Baccalauréat Technique.
Higher Education: This includes public and private universities, with programs ranging from Bachelor’s to Doctoral degrees.
Cameroon has a bilingual education system (French and English), with evaluation and certification methods specific to each sub-system
What is the budget for housing in this municipality?
In Cameroon, it is customary to sign a one-year lease. The landlord may require rent to be paid in advance, which should be seen as an opportunity to negotiate the rental price.
In Santa, there are also numerous housing options. As a guide, there is a wide range of prices depending on the neighborhood and the standard of the accommodation.
Energy, Mobile, and Internet Subscriptions: How to get started?
To subscribe to an electricity, mobile, or internet plan in Cameroon, here are the main steps:
Electricity
Electricity subscriptions are generally managed by ENEO Cameroon. You need to provide a form of ID, a certificate of residence, and complete an application form.
Companies like Elecnor also offer solutions for renewable energy and electrical infrastructure.
Mobile Phone and Internet
The main operators are MTN Cameroon, Orange Cameroon, and Camtel.
To get a SIM card, you must present a form of ID and register the line with the operator.
Mobile plans vary based on your needs for calls, SMS, and internet data.
What level of social coverage?
Social security coverage in Cameroon remains limited, although efforts are being made to expand it. Currently, about 22.7% of the population benefits from social protection.
Main Social Security Mechanisms
Mandatory Social Security: Managed by the CNPS (National Social Insurance Fund), it covers formal sector workers for retirement, family benefits, and occupational risks.
Health Mutuals: Increasingly encouraged, these allow workers in the informal sector to access social protection.
Government Initiatives: In 2025, measures are being implemented to expand social security coverage, especially for informal sector workers.
Despite these advancements, only 8.7% of Cameroonians benefit from social protection that covers at least one area (health, retirement, unemployment, etc.).
How to open a bank account?
To open a bank account in Cameroon, here are the main steps:
1. Choose a Bank
Cameroon has several banks. It’s important to compare their services and fees before making your choice.
2. Prepare the Required Documents
The documents generally requested are:
A valid form of identification (National ID Card or passport)
Proof of address (water or electricity bill)
Two passport photos
A Unique Identification Number (NIU), which has been mandatory since the 2020 finance law
An initial deposit (this amount varies by bank)
3. Go to a Branch
Once you have all your documents, you need to go to a bank branch to fill out an account opening form. Some banks also offer online pre-registration.
4. Activate the Account
After your application is approved, the bank will provide you with a RIB (Bank Identity Statement) and, depending on the account type you chose, a bank card. Some banks also offer remote banking services.
What are the forms of assistance for creating a business?
Forming a company in Cameroon is relatively simple. The company can be registered with the Centre des formalités de création d’entreprises (CFCE) within a few days. Additionally, several programs exist to support business creation:
1. Funding and Subsidies
Youth Entrepreneurship Promotion Program (PEA-Jeune): Funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), this program supports young entrepreneurs in sectors like agriculture and livestock.
Venture Capital Funds: While not widely developed, some funds finance high-potential startups in the seed phase.
Banks and Microfinance Institutions: They offer loans to entrepreneurs under certain conditions, specifically requiring a solid project plan and the existence of creditworthy clients.
2. Tax and Regulatory Incentives
Industrial Free Zones: Companies that set up operations in these zones are granted a total exemption from taxes for 10 years.
Tax Benefits for Exporters: Businesses that export at least 80% of their production benefit from tax and customs incentives.
Exemptions for Large-Scale Projects: Companies involved in infrastructure construction receive tax reductions.
3. Support and Simplified Procedures
Centre des Formalités de Création d’Entreprises (CFCE): This center allows a company to be registered in just a few hours through an online platform.
Support Programs: Certain programs offer assistance with strategy, governance, and financial management.
How to obtain the National Identity Card (CNI)
To obtain a National Identity Card (CNI) in Cameroon, here are the main steps:
1. Online Pre-Enrollment
The Cameroonian government has launched an official platform, portal.idcam.cm, to begin the process online. You need to create an account, fill out a form, and upload the required documents.
2. Physical Enrollment
After the online pre-enrollment, you must go to an identification center to finalize your application. The documents typically required are:
A copy of your birth certificate
A certificate of nationality
A previous ID card (if you’re renewing)
The receipt from your online pre-enrollment
3. Card Issuance
Once your application is validated, you will be given a receipt that allows you to wait for your card to be produced. Thanks to the new expedited procedure, it’s possible to get your CNI in as little as 48 hours via the idcam.cm website.