Madagascar: Authorities clarify work permit and Transformable Visa requirements

Based on a recent clarifying statement published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Transformable Visa has not been discontinued, but in fact, can only be applied for after the issuance of a work permit by the Economic Development Board of Madagascar.

Prior to the clarifying notice issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreign employees were allowed to apply for a Transformable Visa using only a validated contract and certificate of deposit (attestation de dépôt), which are interim documents issued prior to approval of the work permit.

Madagascar: Work permit now required prior to entry

Due to the discontinuation of the Transformable Visa, foreign nationals seeking to work in Madagascar must now apply for a work permit before entering the country. The Transformable Visa allowed foreign nationals to enter under a 30-day temporary status to obtain a long-term visa in Madagascar.

Foreign nationals entering under the Transformable Visa were not able to not apply for long-term visas within the 30 day deadline, which is why the visa was discontinued.

What This Means for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals who intend to work in Madagascar must obtain a work permit before entering the country. Those entering Madagascar without a work permit will be refused entry.