Diaspora Investor FAQ
Frequently asked questions about investing in Angola’s capital markets from abroad, covering account setup, regulatory requirements, tax obligations, and practical considerations.
Getting Started
Can I invest in Angola if I live abroad? Yes. Aviso 15/19 from the BNA allows non-residents — including Angolan diaspora members — to open investment accounts, purchase securities on BODIVA, and repatriate investment returns.
Do I need Angolan citizenship to invest? No. Aviso 15/19 applies to all non-residents, regardless of nationality. However, Angolan citizens abroad benefit from familiar documentation and consulate access.
Do I need to visit Angola to open an account? In most cases, no. Account opening can be completed remotely through an Angolan bank’s international desk, using documents notarized at an Angolan consulate. See country-specific guides for Portugal, Brazil, UK, USA, and South Africa.
What is the minimum investment? Minimum amounts vary by bank and instrument. For BODIVA equities, the minimum is typically one share at the current market price (e.g., BAI at Kz 100,500). Government bond minimums depend on the specific issuance.
Securities and Markets
What can I invest in? BODIVA-listed equities (BAI, BFA, BODIVA SA, BCGA, ENSA), government bonds, treasury bills, and CMC-authorized investment funds. See buying bonds from abroad.
How do I execute trades? All trades on BODIVA must go through a CMC-licensed broker. Your bank may also offer brokerage services.
What are the trading hours? BODIVA operates Monday through Friday during Angolan business hours (WAT, GMT+1).
How liquid is the market? BODIVA recorded 10,328 equity transactions in 2024, with a market capitalization of approximately $3.37 billion. Liquidity is limited compared to major international markets.
Money Transfers and FX
How do I send money to Angola? Via international wire transfer (SWIFT) through your local bank. For Portugal-specific options, see the Portugal remittance guide.
What exchange rate will I get? FX conversion uses the interbank rate, currently around USD/AOA 914.60. Your bank’s rate may include a spread of 0.5-2%.
Can I repatriate my investment returns? Yes. Under Aviso 15/19, dividends, interest, and capital gains may be converted to foreign currency and transferred abroad, subject to documentation and FX regulations.
Tax Questions
What taxes apply? IAC (Imposto sobre a Aplicacao de Capitais) at 10% on dividends and capital gains, 10% on bond interest. You may also owe taxes in your country of residence.
Are there double taxation agreements? Angola has DTAs with select countries including Portugal. Check the country-specific tax guides for Portugal and Brazil.
Risk and Compliance
What are the main risks? FX risk (Kwanza depreciation), credit risk (sovereign rating B-/B3), liquidity risk, and inflation risk (15.7%). See the investment disclaimer.
What KYC documents do I need? Passport, tax ID, proof of address, and source of funds documentation. See KYC requirements for full details.