Living in Cameroon: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Cameroon.
Located in Central Africa, Cameroon welcomes expatriates experiencing a new life in a diverse culture. Its economy is one of the most diversified in the region, due to foreign companies operating in the country and its economic partnerships with developed nations.
Living in Cameroon is an option that expats wishing to invest, work or do an internship have already chosen, thus discovering "Africa in miniature".
Cameroon, located in Central Africa and near the Gulf of Guinea, is quite conducive to expatriation. It stretches over some 475,440 km² and is surrounded by Chad, the Central African Republic in the North, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea and Congo in the East and Nigeria in the West. Its major cities are Yaoundé which is the country's political capital city and Douala which is its economic hub. These are two of the country's most dynamic regions.
Cameroon is divided into ten regions which are primarily defined by their respective cardinal points:
- Adamawa Region
- Central Region
- Eastern Region
- Far North Region
- Littoral Region
- Northern Region
- Northwest Region
- Western Region
- Southern Region
- South West.
Demography
To date, Cameroon's population amounts to more than 20.5 million inhabitants, including a large number of foreigners. The Cameroonian population also consists of 240 ethnic groups which make up three main groups: Bantu, Semi-Bantu and Sudanese. Each of these ethnic groups speaks a particular language. In fact, Cameroon has a total of 240 national languages.
In addition to these, Cameroonians have adopted two official languages, namely French and English which are spoken by 70% and 30% of the population respectively. Many Cameroonian nationals also speak Spanish and German. Hence, expatriates will have no troubling in integrating and adapting to its society.
Climate
There are two types of climates in Cameroon. The equatorial region is characterized by heavy rain and constantly high temperatures. The Central and South plateaus experience four seasons: the rainy season from March to June, the short and dry season from July to August, another rainy season from September to November and finally the great dry season from December to February. In the western region (from the south-west coastal and mountainous areas to the high western plateaus), you are likely to have continuous excessive rain from March to November.
On the other hand, the tropical climate gives rise to high temperatures and low rainfall. In general, the lowest temperatures are around 17°C and the highest temperatures can reach up to 32°C.
Economy
Cameroon has many natural resources such as agriculture, forestry, mines and oil, etc., which contribute to its economic diversity. In fact, the country's primary and industrial sectors are based on bananas, cocoa, coffee, cotton, honey, iron, cobalt, nickel, diamond and marble, etc.
As regards imports, France, China and Nigeria are Cameroon's main economic partners. Moreover, Spain, the Netherlands, China, Italy, France and the United States were the country's main export partners in 2010.
Note that Cameroon is deemed to be Central Africa's most promising economy due to the numerous international firms which have set up there over the years. In fact, Cameroon aims at turning into an emerging economy by 2035.
Useful link:
Expat.com ' Cameroon
Cameroon Tourism Information Office www.cameroun-infotourisme.com
Browse by category
Browse by region
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Cameroon.
Traveling to Cameroon
Before traveling to Cameroon, it is wise to inquire on entry requirements and visas available. Here is some useful information.
Work
Dive into the Cameroon labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Cameroon.
Work in Cameroon
Do you wish to work and settle in Cameroon? Find out in this article how to proceed.
Setting up a business in Cameroon
Do you wish to set up a business in Cameroon? Find out, in this article, how to proceed to create ...
Jobs in Cameroon
Discover professional opportunities in Cameroon and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Cameroon. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Cameroon.
Study in Cameroon
Do you wish to complete your higher studies in Cameroon? Find out, in this article, how to proceed.
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Cameroon: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Cameroon: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Cameroon.
Taxes in Cameroon
Are you working in Cameroon? Do you have to pay tax? Find out in this article.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Cameroon.
Transports in Cameroon
To travel across Cameroon, you can choose among a few means of transport. But which ones? Find out in this article.
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Cameroon, driver's license exchange and international permits.
Driving in Cameroon
Do you wish to rent or buy a car in Cameroon? But can you use your national driver's license? Find out in this article.
Removal
Moving to Cameroon? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Moving to Cameroon
Relocation will be an important part of your expatriation project to Cameroon. Here are some ...
Traveling to Cameroon with your pet
Foreigners traveling to Cameroon can bring their pet along provided they comply with certain ...
Free quotes for your move
Get the best offers to easily organize your relocation to Cameroon.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Cameroon.
Phones and Internet in Cameroon
How to make phone calls in Cameroon? What about Internet? Here are some answers to your queries.
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Cameroon.
Leisure in Cameroon
Wondering how to keep yourself busy in Cameroon during your leisure time? Here is a list of activities in which you can indulge.
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Cameroon looks like? Here's a taste.
Lifestyle in Cameroon
Before moving to Cameroon, is it best to have an idea of the local environment and on its inhabitants lifestyle. Find out more in this article.
Key facts
Articles from the magazine
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Originally from Annecy, Lionel discusses his evolution from an early career in sales to his current role as an expert in optimizing online processes for French SMEs. Currently based in Mauritius, he explains how he merges technological innovation with personal connections to transform business strategies and why he chose this tropical paradise as his new home.
Author Melanie Cheng discusses the impact of a bicultural upbringing on identity
Join us as we explore the journey of Melanie Cheng, a writer profoundly influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong and Australia. Her unique bicultural background has deeply shaped her perspective and voice as a storyteller. Today, Melanie shares insights into how navigating two distinct cultures has enriched her writing, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of language and tradition in her work.
How different countries approach midday breaks
Lunch breaks are more than just lunch. They can also be a cultural phenomenon, especially when you consider how different a lunch experience in a different country can be. Today, we are looking into what lunch breaks are like across the world and which countries take them most seriously.
Understanding inheritance law and taxes
The cross-border inheritance of assets presents a complex legal and financial terrain for expats with families in other countries. No two nations share identical inheritance laws, and the specifics of bilateral tax treaties vary as well. So, how can you navigate this minefield without losing access to your inherited assets, complicating the donation of your assets to your children, or facing excessive taxes? Here are some tips.
Expat women: Why setting boundaries is important
Launched in October 2017, the #Metoo movement has empowered women to speak out. Globally, women from all walks of life, both well-known and private, have come forward to expose violence against women. Central to these discussions is the concept of consent, which at first glance appears straightforward—voluntarily agreeing to engage in an activity. Yet, its application, particularly regarding women, often faces scrutiny. Common misunderstandings persist, such as interpreting a "no" as a "yes," or considering a coerced "yes" as consent. This raises a critical question: How do you, as a woman, establish personal boundaries while living abroad?
How to manage international teams and overcome cultural barriers
Taking on a management role abroad is an intriguing career move, yet many underestimate the significance of understanding cultural nuances in the workplace for a successful international leadership role. What key aspects should you consider beyond the usual cultural stereotypes?
Why pursue a Master's degree overseas?
More people are opting to study abroad, regardless of their intentions to pursue an international career. Although the opportunity to study in another country is currently accessible, starting a career there can present challenges due to restrictions in several key destinations. Earning a master's degree abroad can be an effective strategy for achieving long-term integration into the local job market. Here is a detailed analysis.
Top events in Mauritius in March
Explore the highlights of Mauritius in March 2025 with our guide to can't-miss events! Enjoy everything from performances by the Moscow State Dance Company to tributes featuring the music of James Bond. Find the ideal cultural experience for your weekends or evenings.
