Madagascar is a mysterious and wonderful country. The fourth largest island in the world. Unique flora and fauna, which has survived only on this island. Ancient dormant volcano humid climate, rich culture, and traditions. 

Madagascar is considered one of the most backward countries in the world. The country's population is growing rapidly, with many children born in the country. The main religion is the ancient folk belief of the ancestors. The main language is Malagasy. The island is between Asia and Africa, so the population is very diverse and the origin of the nation is a matter of debate. Mostly dark-skinned Africans and mulattoes with distinctive cuts of eyes live here. 

Only a third of all citizens live in the cities, and even there the level of prosperity is low. However, the most well-off are the so-called princes and princesses, who live in their isolated world in luxury hotels with guards.

The main activity of the islanders is to work on the plantations. Madagascar is famous for its spices, peanuts, cocoa beans, and more. In recent years, the authorities of the island attach great importance to the development of tourism, which is gradually becoming a driving force in the development. 

Pros and cons of living in Madagascar

It is difficult to say who will suit life in Madagascar. Because of the lack of development of the economy and other spheres of life in the country, the lack of middle class, and high levels of corruption, there is no lifestyle as such. A good option for a more or less comfortable migration would be employment, for example in a mining company. However, consider the advantages of living in Madagascar:

• the unique flora and fauna;
• the tropical climate;
• low crime rate;
• the abundance of exotic fruits;
• tropical climate;
• French restaurants;
• tourism development;
• quite friendly and simple-minded locals.

Consider the disadvantages

• the low standard of living;
• corruption;
• very low level of education and medicine;
• seasonal rains;
• corrupt law enforcement agencies.

Registration and options for obtaining a residence permit

A long stay (more than 90 days) in Madagascar requires a residence permit – an immigrant visa. In this case, enter the country with a visa for 30 days, obtained at the embassy. Then an application for its conversion into an immigrant visa is submitted to the Passport and Visa Department of the Ministry of Interior, which is initially issued for 2 years, then extended for 5 and 10 years, after which, as a rule, it is converted into an indefinite visa.

A special procedure for acquiring a residence permit is established for foreign investors. This category of persons must obtain a professional visa valid for 3 years with the possibility of extension, which gives them the right to engage in business.    

The relevant applications are considered by the Economic Development Board of Madagascar. For foreigners who have received a residence permit, the Ministry of Interior issues a national identity card – a "resident card".

There are several ways to acquire Madagascar citizenship:

• by birth right;
• by descent (father is a Madagascan citizen or mother is a Madagascan citizen and father is unknown or stateless);
• through marriage to a Madagascan national (for women, a two-year probationary period in marriage);
• through naturalization.

To obtain citizenship through naturalization, a foreign national must:

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