Verified Facts
To move to Burkina Faso, you should first research the country's culture, language, and customs, and then obtain the necessary visa and residency documents, while also preparing for the challenges of living in a developing country in West Africa.
Why People Move to Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is a West African country that attracts expats and travelers with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and stunning natural beauty. The country is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with their own unique traditions and customs. Many people move to Burkina Faso for work, with the country's growing economy and abundant natural resources making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and professionals. Others come to Burkina Faso as part of international aid organizations or non-governmental organizations (NGOs), working on development projects and humanitarian initiatives. The quality of life in Burkina Faso can be challenging, with limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure in some areas, but the warm hospitality of the Burkinabé people and the country's laid-back atmosphere make it a rewarding and enriching experience for many expats.
The expat community in Burkina Faso is relatively small, but diverse, with people from all over the world living and working in the country. Many expats are drawn to the capital city, Ouagadougou, which offers a range of modern amenities and services, including international schools, restaurants, and shopping centers. The city also has a lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the country's music, dance, and art. Despite the challenges of living in Burkina Faso, many expats find the experience rewarding and enjoyable, with a strong sense of community and camaraderie among the expat population.
In terms of demographics, the expat community in Burkina Faso is predominantly made up of professionals and aid workers, with a smaller number of entrepreneurs and business owners. The community is relatively young, with many expats in their 20s and 30s, although there are also older expats who have chosen to retire in Burkina Faso or start a new business venture. Overall, the quality of life in Burkina Faso is good, with a low cost of living and a range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences to enjoy.
Visa & Residency Options
| Visa Type | Duration | Requirements | Cost (USD) | Path to PR? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | 3 months | Valid passport, proof of onward travel, proof of sufficient funds | 30 | No |
| Work Visa | 1-2 years | Job offer, valid passport, proof of qualifications and experience | 100-200 | Yes |
| Business/Investor | 1-2 years | Business plan, proof of investment, valid passport | 200-500 | Yes |
| Retirement | 1-2 years | Proof of retirement, valid passport, proof of sufficient funds | 50-100 | No |
| Student | 1-2 years | Admission letter, valid passport, proof of sufficient funds | 20-50 | No |
| Digital Nomad | Not available | Not available | Not available | Not available |
Relocation Checklist
- Research the country and its culture, including customs, language, and way of life.
- Obtain the necessary visa and residency documents, including a valid passport and proof of qualifications and experience.
- Find accommodation in Ouagadougou or other major cities, including apartments, houses, and shared accommodation.
- Open a local bank account and transfer funds to Burkina Faso, including setting up a payment system for bills and expenses.
- Register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit, including providing proof of address and identity.
- Find a job or start a business, including researching the local job market and business opportunities.
- Enroll in a local school or university, including researching education options and curriculum.
- Learn some basic French phrases and cultural norms, including greetings, customs, and etiquette.
- Join expat groups and social networks, including online forums and social media groups.
- Plan for healthcare and medical emergencies, including researching local healthcare options and medical evacuation procedures.
- Research transportation options, including cars, taxis, and public transport.
- Plan for security and safety, including researching local crime rates and taking necessary precautions.
Expat Communities
- The expat community in Ouagadougou is relatively small, but active, with many social events and activities, including weekly meetups and cultural events.
- Online groups, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, provide a platform for expats to connect and share information, including advice on living in Burkina Faso and job opportunities.
- The Association of Expatriates in Burkina Faso is a social organization that brings together expats from all over the world, including regular meetings and events.
- The Ouagadougou International School is a popular meeting place for expat families, with a range of activities and events, including sports, music, and art classes.
- The Burkina Faso Expats Facebook group is a popular online community, with over 1,000 members, including discussions on living in Burkina Faso, job opportunities, and cultural events.
Banking & Finances
- Opening a local bank account is relatively straightforward, with many banks offering a range of services, including online banking and mobile payments.
- Money transfers can be made through Western Union or other money transfer services, including online transfers and cash pickups.
- The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF), which is pegged to the euro, including a fixed exchange rate and limited currency fluctuations.
- Credit cards are not widely accepted, with many businesses and services only accepting cash, including markets, taxis, and restaurants.
- It is recommended to have a backup plan for emergency funds, including a separate bank account or credit card, in case of unexpected expenses or financial difficulties.
Challenges & Honest Advice
- Culture shock can be a significant challenge, with many expats experiencing difficulty adjusting to the local customs and way of life, including different social norms and expectations.
- Bureaucracy can be frustrating, with many administrative tasks requiring patience and persistence, including obtaining visas, residence permits, and other documents.
- Language barriers can be a challenge, with French being the official language, although many Burkinabé people also speak local languages, including Mooré and Dioula.
- Security concerns are a significant issue, with the country experiencing periodic outbreaks of violence and instability, including terrorist attacks and kidnappings.
- Healthcare can be limited, with many medical facilities and services not meeting international standards, including limited access to medical specialists and equipment.
- Infrastructure can be underdeveloped, with many roads and public services in need of improvement, including limited access to electricity, water, and sanitation.