N'Djamena: what to see and whether to move there

Is it worth moving to N'Djamena in 2026

N'Djamena is the capital of Chad, a large city at the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers right on the border with Cameroon. It is one of the hottest capitals in the world and one of the most expensive for foreigners: almost everything, from food to furniture, is brought from far away, and housing with security and a generator is scarce. Most foreigners come on contracts with international organisations, embassies, oil and construction companies.

For living by choice N'Djamena is unsuitable: the security situation in the country is difficult, medical care is weak, and residence is tied to work. If you have a contract or project in Chad, the key is to obtain the visa in advance through the official electronic system, along with a work permit and safe housing.

Cost of living in N'Djamena

There is little open price data for N'Djamena, and sources differ widely: city averages are low, while houses and apartments with security, a generator and water where foreigners live cost many times more and are often comparable to major European capitals. The local currency is the Central African franc, pegged to the euro, about 585 francs per dollar in early October 2026. Many employers pay for housing themselves.

Where to live in N'Djamena

Foreigners live in guarded villas and residential compounds in central areas by the Chari river, near embassies, international organisation offices and hotels. Such homes are rented through the employer or trusted contacts, and the choice depends on security, a high wall, a generator, water storage and a route to work that can be driven without unnecessary stops. Foreigners should not live in outlying districts, where security, power and water are worse.

Entry and residence

Russian citizens need a visa for Chad. Since 11 May 2026 all visas are issued only through Chad's official electronic system, and visas issued outside it after 21 May 2026 are invalid and will not allow entry. For work and long-term living, the employer obtains a work permit, after which a residence card is issued. There is no separate residence for investors, remote workers or retirees.

Documents are prepared in French or Arabic, foreign certificates are translated and legalised, and processing can drag on, so filing starts early.

Taxes in Chad

Income tax on employment income is progressive: up to 800,000 francs a year, about $1,370, 0%, then 10.5%, 15%, 20% and 25%, and income over 12,000,000 francs, about $20,500, is taxed at 30%. Tax on salary is withheld by the employer, and some non-taxable allowances and social security contributions are deducted from the base.

Residents pay income tax on worldwide income, non-residents only on income from Chad. Capital income is taxed separately, for example rent for residents at 15%. Corporate tax is 35%, and the minimum tax is 1.5% of turnover, payable even at a loss. VAT is 18%, 9% on some local goods.

Renting and buying property

Almost all foreigners rent rather than buy: the market is small, land rights take a long time to check, and selling a house later is hard. Rent is usually paid several months or a year upfront, and the lease is often signed by the employer. Before signing, check who owns the house and the condition of the generator, water tank and air conditioners, without which the local heat is unbearable.

Climate and daily life

The climate is very hot: from March to June daytime temperatures reach 45 degrees and more, from June to September the rains make some roads impassable, and in winter a dusty desert wind blows. The most comfortable time is November to February. The official languages are French and Arabic. Malaria is widespread and medical care is weak, so insurance with evacuation is needed. Power cuts are common, and it is best to get around the city by car with a driver.

Pitfalls

• Difficult security situation: several countries advise against travel to Chad.
• Visas only through the official electronic system; other visas are invalid.
• Housing for foreigners is very expensive.
• Extreme heat and dust storms.
• Malaria and weak medical care.
• Minimum tax of 1.5% of turnover even at a loss.

Murblz specialists help with the visa, work permit, residence card and company registration in Chad. A consultant in the chat will calculate the cost of support.