Expat guide to living in the Central African Republic
 

Central African Republic

Central African Republic

Living in Central African Republic was deemed dangerous due to rising crime rate brought about by government instability. It is not a safe place to relocate your family, however, if your are moving there we have put together the necessary information to help you settle in as comfortably as possible.



INFO


Central african Republic

Expat Clubs


There are no expat meet up clubs as such in Central african Republic and most expats communicate online through websites such as ExpatWoman.com.



International Schools 


There are no known international schools in Central African Republic. Here’s a list of neighboring countries that provide international education:

1.       Cameroon

2.       Congo

3.       Sudan

4.       Uganda



Local News in English


AllAfrica.com 

AllAfrica publishes around 2,000 reports a day from more than 130 news organizations and over 200 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. They publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons.

Website: www.allafrica.com/centralafricanrepublic



Country Information 


Location: Africa

Capital City: Bangui

Other Important Cities:

Currency: Central African CFA Franc (CFA)

Language: French

Calling Code: 236

Internet TLD: .cf

Electricity: The country runs on 220V 50Hz. Energie Centrafricaine (ENERCA) is the sole producer, distributor and transmitter of electricity in the country.

Emergency Numbers:   
  • Central Police Station: +236 21 61 13 00

 

Country Information

Wikipedia



Embassy Information


www.embassyworld.com

Residents Visa and Work Permit information


Only a few nationals from certain countries are allowed to enter visa-free and stay for up to 90 days in Central African Republic. Other nationals must apply for a visa at the Central African Republic’s embassy or consulate in their home or host country. There are two types of visas: short-stay, 30 days, and long-stay, 3 months.



Documents required but not limited to:
  • Valid Passport for up to 6 months
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

The US government has issued a travel warning against Central African Republic:

“The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all travel to the Central African Republic (CAR) and recommends that those who remain in CAR depart immediately by taking advantage of existing commercial flights.  The Government of Chad closed its border with CAR May 12, 2014.  Only citizens of Chad returning home will be able to cross the Chad-CAR border. U.S. citizens who have decided to stay in CAR despite this warning should review their personal security situation and seriously consider departing. This replaces the Travel Warning of November 14, 2013, to reflect the risk of remaining in CAR and continued lack of security.”

 

For further information, please visit here.



Accommodation


Outside of the capital, Bangui, the country remains underdeveloped. Infrastructure like accommodation facilities are limited save for a few hotels.



A popular hotel in the capital is Hotel Ledger Plaza Bangui.

Address: Avenue de L Independance, Bangui, Central African Republic

Tel: +236 21 61 00 06



There are also Bed and Breakfasts out in the small towns of Bangassou, Boali, Bossangoa and Bambari. Lodges are also available, which are located in the forests and national parks.



Driving License


An international driving license is valid to drive legally in the country. However the conditions of roads are poor. The UK government has also outlined precautions and have warned of the dangers in travelling across Central African Republic. Please visit their site for detailed information on these cautions.



Healthcare


Medical facilities remain inside the capital, Bangui, and are below standard. Clinics and hospitals staffed by missionaries can also be found. There are private hospitals available as well, but are expensive.



Poor sanitation and shortage of medicine is also an issue. Be sure to stock up on necessary medication before travelling.



Cash payments are to be expected, while a foreign health insurance may not be accepted. Make sure that the policy you have will reimburse you for any incurred medical costs during your travel.



The US government has outlined concerns about the health and safety in Central African Republic, please visit here for more information.



Insurance Companies



Bellwood Prestbury

Bellwood Prestbury specialists will ensures that clients have the Central African Republic insurance they will need including cover that is valid in high risk areas or high risk occupations, including medical evacuation insurance.

Address: 4 Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB, United Kingdom

Tel: + 44 1242 584 558

Fax: +44 1242 588 688

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.bellwoodprestbury.com

 

Allianz Centrafrique Assurances

Allianz, a leading international insurance service, with their ability to cover the full range of risks for property-casualty and liability insurance and life insurance.

Address: Boulevard du Général de Gaulle, , Bangui, BP 343, Central African Republic

Tel: +236 21613 666

Fax: +236 21613 340

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.allianz-africa.com



Hospitals



Clinique Dr. Chouaib

Address: Bangui, Central African Republic

Tel: +236 611 568

 

Hopital Communautaire

Address: Avenue des Martyrs, Bangui, Central African Republic

Tel: +236 61 62 43, +236 61 20 17

 

Hopital de I'Amitie

Address: Avenue de I'independence, Bangui, Central African Republic

Tel: +236 505 953

 

Medical Center (French Embassy)

Address: Boulevard du General de Gaulle, P.O. Box 784, Bangui, Central African Republic

Tel: +236 613 000

Fax: +236 610 602