Madagascar attracts visitors with its unique natural beauty and tropical climate, but life on the island has its own challenges—from limited infrastructure to specific immigration procedures. Obtaining a residence permit involves a step-by-step process of applying for an immigrant visa, followed by its renewal. Learn more about the requirements for moving to and living in Madagascar

Madagascar is a mysterious and amazing country. It is the fourth-largest island in the world. It is home to unique flora and fauna found nowhere else. It features an ancient dormant volcano, a humid climate, and a rich culture and traditions.

Madagascar is considered one of the least developed countries in the world. The country’s population is growing rapidly, and there are many births. The main religion is the ancient folk beliefs of the ancestors. The main language is Malagasy. The island is located between Asia and Africa, so the population here is very diverse, and the nation’s origins are a subject of debate.

Only a third of all citizens live in cities, and even there, the standard of living is low. However, the wealthiest are the so-called princes and princesses, who live in their own isolated world in luxury hotels with security.

The main occupation of the islanders is working on plantations. Madagascar is famous for its spices, peanuts, cocoa beans, and much more. In recent years, the island’s government has placed great importance on the development of tourism, which is gradually becoming a driving force for development.

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Pros and Cons of Life in Madagascar

It’s hard to say who would truly thrive in Madagascar. Due to the lack of economic development and underdeveloped infrastructure, the absence of a middle class, and high levels of corruption, there is no real lifestyle to speak of here. A decent option for a more or less comfortable move would be employment, for example, at a mining company.

Nevertheless, let’s consider the advantages of living in Madagascar:

• unique flora and fauna;
• tropical climate;
• low crime rate;
• abundance of exotic fruits;
• tropical climate;
• French restaurants;
• developing tourism industry;
• fairly friendly and simple-hearted locals.

It is also worth considering the downsides of living in Madagascar:

• low standard of living;
• corruption;
• very low levels of education and healthcare;
• seasonal rains;
• corrupt law enforcement agencies.

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Application and options for obtaining a permanent residence permit

For a long-term (more than 90 days) stay in Madagascar, a residence permit—an immigrant visa—is required. In this case, entry into the country is granted with a 30-day visa obtained at the embassy.

Next, a request is submitted to the Passport and Visa Department of the Ministry of the Interior to convert it into an immigrant visa, which is initially issued for 2 years, then extended for 5 and 10 years, after which it is typically converted into a permanent residence permit.

A special procedure for obtaining a residence permit applies to foreign investors. This category of individuals must obtain a professional visa, valid for 3 years with the possibility of renewal, which grants the right to conduct business.

Such applications are reviewed by the Economic Development Council of Madagascar. The Ministry of the Interior issues a national identity document—a “resident card”—to foreigners who have obtained a residence permit.

There are several ways to obtain Malagasy citizenship:

• by birthright;
• by descent (if the father is a citizen of Madagascar or the mother is a citizen of Madagascar and the father is unknown or stateless);
• through marriage to a citizen of Madagascar (for women, a two-year probationary period in the marriage);
• through naturalization.

To obtain citizenship through naturalization, a foreign national must:

• be at least 18 years of age;
• be of good character;
• be physically and mentally healthy;
• not have been convicted of a crime within the past year.

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