Cameroon — Tax Guide, Residency & Cost of Living for Expats

Africa

Tax Score

33/100Worldwide

Tax Data

Income Tax10% – 35%
Corporate Tax30%
Capital Gains15%
VAT/GST19.25%
Wealth TaxNo
Inheritance TaxNo

Residency & Visas

Golden VisaNo
Digital Nomad VisaNo

Cost of Living & Quality of Life

Cost of Living Index25
Safety3.5/10
Internet12 Mbps
Healthcare3/10
Gasoline$1.46/L

Tax Overview

Cameroon applies a worldwide tax system with high progressive rates. Residents are taxed on their global income, which can represent a significant burden for high earners.

Personal Income Tax

Personal income tax in Cameroon ranges from 10% – 35% progressively.

Corporate & Capital Gains

The corporate tax rate is 30%, relatively high. Capital gains are taxed at 15%.

Indirect Taxes & Wealth

VAT/GST is 19.25%, moderate by international standards.

Crypto & Digital Assets

Cameroon has an unfavorable crypto tax regime (score 2/5). Rates are high and/or regulations are restrictive.

Compare with other countries

Residency Guide

Relocating to Cameroon is possible but with limited options. Visa options are more limited, but residency is achievable through standard pathways.

Visa Options

Cameroon does not currently offer a digital nomad visa or golden visa. Foreigners can explore work, investment, or family reunification visas.

Practical Considerations

As a non-LATAM destination, applicants should consider potential language barriers and cultural differences. Working with a local immigration attorney and verifying apostille/legalization requirements for documents is recommended.

Also consider: Mauritius, Seychelles, Libya

Lifestyle

Cameroon offers a low cost of living, enabling a comfortable lifestyle on a moderate budget. Caution is recommended in certain areas, though expat zones tend to be safe.

Cost of Living

With an index of 25 (reference: 100 = New York City), Cameroon is significantly cheaper than major world cities. An expat can live comfortably at a fraction of what it would cost in the US or Western Europe.

Safety & Infrastructure

A safety score of 3.5/10 indicates significant challenges. Thoroughly researching residential areas is recommended. Internet speed of 12 Mbps — may be limiting for video calls and intensive remote work.

Healthcare

A healthcare score of 3/10 indicates significant healthcare system challenges. Comprehensive private insurance is essential.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Very low cost of living (index 25)

Cons

  • Worldwide tax system — global income taxed
  • Low safety rating (3.5/10)
  • Unfavorable crypto regime (2/5)
  • Limited healthcare system (3/10)
  • Slow internet (12 Mbps)
  • High corporate tax rate (30%)

Frequently Asked Questions

Cameroon operates under a worldwide tax system: taxes residents on worldwide income, regardless of where it is earned. The top personal income tax rate is 35%.

About this guide

Researched and maintained by the TuLugar team, based in Asunción, Paraguay.

Data sourced from PwC, Numbeo, UNDP, and Ookla.

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