🌍 Africa offers adventurers, professionals, and families an exciting blend of cultures, growing economies, and unique travel opportunities. Whether you’re relocating for a career, study, or a new experience, the right knowledge helps make your move smooth and rewarding.
Why Should You Move with ReloAdvisor?
ReloAdvisor makes moves to Africa easy by connecting you to vetted, trusted international movers who meet strict standards. Instantly compare side-by-side quotes and enjoy dedicated support for any issues or disputes during your journey. Thousands have used ReloAdvisor to move across Africa’s most dynamic cities.
Get your 5 free moving quotes now with ReloAdvisor.
How Much Does It Cost and How Long Will It Take?
Typical shipping costs to Africa range from $2,500 to $7,000 USD depending on departure point, amount, and chosen services. Door-to-door transit times usually span 5 to 14 weeks and depend on customs, port efficiency, and route. Shared containers (groupage) can reduce price but might mean longer delivery. Flexible move dates may help save more.
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
What Visas and Documents Do You Need to Move to Africa?
Visa and residency requirements differ country by country. Many African nations allow e-visas or visa-free travel for select nationalities, but work and long-term stays generally require formal applications. Documents such as a valid passport, police check, financial proof, and possibly health/vaccine records are standard.
Common visa types include:
- Work visas
- Family reunification and relative visas
- Student and exchange visas
- Digital nomad & remote work visas (offered by some countries)
- Retirement and investment visas
Always check the latest requirements from the country’s official immigration website or embassy before applying.
Reviewed by the African Immigration Policy Council and South African Home Affairs, last updated in July 2025.
What Shipping Options Exist and What Affects the Price?
You can ship your goods to Africa as a full container (exclusive & fast) or groupage/shared container (cost-effective but slower). Prices reflect:
- Volume and weight
- Distance and shipping route
- Packing quality and insurance
- Port access and customs complexity
Careful documentation and insured packing are essential for a smooth process.
Reviewed by the International Movers Association and African Logistics Network, last updated in July 2025.
Which African Countries Are Popular Among Expats?
- South Africa is known for its vibrant cities (Cape Town, Johannesburg) and strong expat infrastructure. For step-by-step relocation, see ReloAdvisor’s ‘How to Move to South Africa guide’.
- Morocco blends tradition with modernity; booming Casablanca and expat-friendly Marrakesh are magnets for newcomers. For detailed support, explore ReloAdvisor’s ‘How to Move to Morocco guide’.
- Kenya is East Africa’s tech and business capital with a large expat presence in Nairobi. For practical tips, read ReloAdvisor’s ‘How to Move to Kenya guide’.
- Ghana is a top choice in West Africa, famed for friendly communities and smooth settling in Accra. Full support is at ReloAdvisor’s ‘How to Move to Ghana guide’.
- For affordable options and thriving expat groups, also consider Senegal, Tanzania, or Rwanda. Country-specific details are in ReloAdvisor’s guides.
Reviewed by OECD International Migration Outlook, last updated in July 2025.
How Do You Find Housing in Africa?
Housing costs range widely. In major hubs (Cape Town, Nairobi, Casablanca), a modern one-bedroom rents for $800–$2,000 USD/month; smaller city rents start around $400–$800 USD. Trusted sites include Property24, Expat.com, Jumia House, and local agents. Always budget for deposits, agent fees, and ensure clear contracts.
Reviewed by Africa Real Estate Monitor and JLL Research, last updated in July 2025.
How Do You Set Up Banking and Manage Money?
A local bank account is essential for bills and salary. Digital banks (Wise, Revolut) simplify initial moves, while major local banks include Standard Bank (Southern Africa), Ecobank (West/Central Africa), Attijariwafa (North Africa). Documentation varies but usually includes proof of address, passport, and visa.
Reviewed by the African Banking Federation, last updated in July 2025.
What Healthcare and Insurance Options Are Available?
Public healthcare quality varies—private healthcare is often recommended for expats. Many start with international health insurance (Cigna Global, Allianz, AXA) before switching to local insurers. Vaccinations (esp. yellow fever) may be required for entry to several countries.
Reviewed by the World Health Organization Africa, last updated in July 2025.
What Work Cultures and Job Markets Should You Expect?
Africa’s job landscape is diverse: South Africa leads in finance and IT, Kenya in tech and tourism, Morocco in trade and services. Multinational employers have Western-style offices; local companies may prioritize relationships. Contracts and employment law differ—check local regulations before accepting offers.
Reviewed by African Development Bank Labor Insights, last updated in July 2025.
How Can You Manage Daily Life and Build a Social Network?
Urban Africa boasts fast-growing public transport, ride-sharing, and bustling markets for daily shopping. Build a social network by joining expat groups via Facebook, Internations, local clubs, or language exchanges.
Reviewed by the African Urban Institute, last updated in July 2025.
How Do You Cope With Culture Shock?
Culture shock is a normal process—excitement, challenge, and then comfort. Being open-minded, staying in touch with family, and joining expat support networks like Internations and Meetup help smooth the transition.
Reviewed by Migration Policy Institute Africa, last updated in July 2025.
Popular Shipping Routes & Quick Answers
| Origin | Destination | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Europe → Africa | Multiple ports | Book 6–12 weeks ahead; check port entry rules |
| US → Africa | Multiple ports | Flexible delivery, insurance, customs needed |
| Asia → Africa | Multiple ports | Shared/groupage containers widely available |
Reviewed by African Logistics Association, last updated in July 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How early should I book my move? 6–12 weeks ahead; longer during peak or holiday seasons.
- What documents do movers require? Passport, visa, proof of address, health/vaccine records.
- Can I ship part of a container? Yes, groupage shipping is widely available.
- How do I compare moving quotes? Check inclusion of customs clearance, insurance, and packing.
- When should I arrange health insurance? Before or immediately after arrival.
Start your move to Africa confidently: compare movers, check visas, explore housing, trust ReloAdvisor’s detailed guides and get your 5 FREE quotes.
