Living in the Democratic Republic of Congo: the ultimate expat guide

DRC maintains strict immigration policies and does not offer visas on arrival. All visa applications must be completed before departure through a Congolese diplomatic mission. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date and contain a minimum of 2 blank pages. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and vaccination certificates are routinely checked at entry points.

Available Visa Categories

For short tourist stays, the tourist visa permits stays of up to 30 days. Costing approximately USD 100, processing typically takes 10-15 business days. This visa covers personal travel only and does not authorize any business activities. For commercial missions, the business visa allows prospecting, partner meetings, and investment evaluations on a temporary basis.

Foreign workers require specialized permits to work legally. The Visa d'Établissement de Travail (VET) serves as the primary work authorization document. Valid for 12-24 months and renewable, it requires a work card issued by the National Commission for Foreign Employment. Congolese employers must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate and commit to training a Congolese counterpart during the contract period. For shorter assignments, the Visa d'Établissement Systématique (VETS) applies to professional stays exceeding 180 days. Typically valid for up to 12 months, it also requires enrollment on local payroll.

Additional categories include the special establishment visa issued by the National Intelligence Agency, student visas, missionary visas, and permanent establishment visas available after 15 years of continuous residence. Holders of VET or VETS can obtain a Visa Sortie/Retour (VSR) authorizing international travel during the validity period of their work visa.

Work Visa Application Process

The process begins with securing an employment contract from a registered Congolese employer. The employer must then request a work card from the National Commission for Foreign Employment, justifying the need to hire a foreign national. If denied, appeals can be filed with the Ministry of Labor within 15 days. Once the work card is obtained, the employer applies for a VET through the Ministry of Employment and simultaneously requests the VETS from the Directorate General of Migration.

Required documentation includes a valid passport, yellow fever vaccination certificate, employment contract, work card, return ticket or proof of independent transportation for non-residents, and in some cases, a criminal background check. Note that professional missions lasting one week can be completed with a tourist visa accompanied by a mission letter, but anything longer requires the VET. Journalists must also obtain accreditation from the Ministry of Communication and Media.

Airport Exit Taxes

All travelers departing DRC must pay airport taxes. International flights require USD 50 for the "Go Pass" plus USD 5 in statistical taxes, totaling USD 55. Domestic flights are subject to a USD 10 "Go Pass" and the same USD 5 statistical tax. These amounts must be paid in cash using recent, undamaged US dollar bills.

For specific administrative questions or procedural updates, regularly consult your country's diplomatic mission websites or the World Bank DRC overview for current information on entry and residence requirements.

The DRC labor market presents contrasting characteristics. While official unemployment stands at 4.5%, these figures mask a more complex reality dominated by informal sector activity. Labor force participation reaches only 34.59%, with agriculture employing over half the active population. Formal sector wages remain modest: average monthly salary sits around 109,000 CDF (approximately USD 40), while the daily minimum wage was raised to 14,500 CDF in January 2025, translating to roughly 290,000 CDF monthly (USD 101.5) for 20 working days.

High-Demand Sectors for International Professionals

The mining and extractive sector remains the primary economic driver and concentrates most opportunities for international profiles. Engineers, geologists, mining operations experts, and logistics specialists are highly sought after, particularly for projects extracting copper, cobalt, lithium, and coltan. Sites like Kamoa-Kakula in Lualaba Province illustrate the scale of ongoing investments.

Telecommunications is experiencing rapid expansion with mobile network and internet deployment. Technical, commercial, and marketing profiles find opportunities in this dynamic sector. Banking and finance is gradually modernizing, attracting skills in management, audit, compliance, and corporate finance. Construction and infrastructure offer positions in engineering, project management, and site supervision, driven by rapid urbanization in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and other major cities.

Professional services (consulting, audit, human resources) and the energy sector (hydroelectric dams, renewable energy) present interesting prospects. International organizations, NGOs, and development agencies regularly recruit executives for humanitarian and development programs. The private education sector also hires teachers and administrative staff for international schools.

Before applying, understand employment conditions thoroughly. All foreign worker contracts must include annual raises of at least 3% to offset inflation. Legal working time is set at 45 hours per week, and employees receive 12 days paid leave after one year of service, with one additional day per year of seniority. Maternity leave extends to 14 weeks. Notice period requirements are 3 months for resignation or termination. Severance pay equals 1.5 months' salary per year of service.

Starting a Business

Company formation in DRC follows a legal framework supervised by the National Agency for Investment Promotion (ANAPI). Several legal structures are available: SARL (Limited Liability Company) with minimum capital of USD 1,000 and 1-50 partners, SA (Corporation) requiring minimum capital of USD 20,000 and at least 7 shareholders, or sole proprietorship for small-scale activities.

The formation process involves several steps. First, obtain a registration certificate from ANAPI, then register articles of incorporation at the Commercial Court Registry. Next, register with the Trade and Movable Credit Register (RCCM) to obtain the National Identification Number (NIN). Open a professional bank account and deposit share capital. Finally, register for taxes with the Directorate General of Taxation and affiliate with the National Social Security Institute (INSS).

Average company formation time ranges from 3-6 weeks depending on project complexity. Total administrative fees typically fall between USD 500-1,500. Foreign investors may benefit from certain tax and customs advantages, particularly in special economic zones, though these incentives are currently under government review. Working with a local business attorney and accounting firm is strongly recommended for navigating the Congolese administrative system.

Employment Sector Overview

To better visualize professional opportunities across different sectors, here's an overview of key employment areas and sought-after profiles:

Sources: World Bank (2024), Playroll (2025), Bankable Africa (2025)

The Congolese tax system is currently undergoing major reforms driven by the government and supported by international institutions. The goal is to modernize taxation, broaden the tax base, and improve collection. These changes, some taking effect in January 2026, directly affect foreign employees and entrepreneurs. The Directorate General of Taxation (DGI) administers the entire system and is progressively implementing digital tools to facilitate declarations.

Personal Income Tax

Currently, the Personal Income Tax (IRPP) applies a progressive scale distinguishing between tax residents and non-residents. An individual is considered resident if staying more than 6 months annually in DRC or if their main activity is located there. Residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Congolese-source income.

The current bracket system contains several tiers. Income up to 1,620,000 CDF (approximately USD 566) is exempt. The 1,620,001 to 4,050,000 CDF bracket is taxed at 3%. From 4,050,001 to 6,750,000 CDF, the rate increases to 10%. Between 6,750,001 and 13,500,000 CDF, it reaches 20%. The 13,500,001 to 27,000,000 CDF bracket is taxed at 30%. Between 27,000,001 and 54,000,000 CDF, the rate rises to 40%. Above 54,000,000 CDF, the marginal rate is 50%.

From January 2026, a new simplified bracket system takes effect with four tiers. Income up to 5,400,000 CDF will be fully exempt. From 5,400,001 to 18,900,000 CDF, the rate will be 15%. Between 18,900,001 and 54,000,000 CDF, taxation increases to 25%. Above 54,000,000 CDF, the maximum marginal rate will be 40%. This reform aims to reduce tax pressure on the middle class while broadening the taxable base.

IRPP is withheld at source for employees by employers, who remit amounts monthly to DGI. Self-employed workers must make quarterly provisional payments and regularize their situation through an annual declaration. Standard deductions exist based on income type: 30% for salaries, 40% for certain liberal professions. Actual professional expenses may also be deducted with proper documentation.

Corporate Income Tax

The Corporate Tax (IS) applies to profits generated by companies established in DRC. The current standard rate stands at 30%, though variations exist by sector. Mining companies are subject to a specific regime with rates potentially reaching 35% depending on operating agreements. SMEs may benefit from reduced rates under certain revenue conditions.

The 2026 reform will adjust rates. The standard IS rate will remain at 30%, but enhanced transparency measures are announced, including country-by-country reporting requirements for large companies. Foreign companies without permanent establishment in DRC remain taxable on Congolese-source income through withholding tax.

Value Added Tax

VAT applies to most goods and services consumed in DRC. The standard rate is 16%. Certain basic necessities, medicines, and medical equipment benefit from exemptions. Exports are zero-rated, allowing upstream VAT recovery. Companies with annual turnover exceeding 80 million CDF must register for VAT and file monthly returns. From 2025, standardized invoicing becomes mandatory for all registered businesses, with electronic invoices issued through the DGI system.

Additional Tax Obligations

The Exceptional Tax on Expatriate Salaries (IERE) represents a specific levy on foreign employees. It amounts to 25% of gross salary and is added to IRPP. This double taxation significantly increases expatriate labor costs. Companies employing foreigners must remit this tax monthly.

Property Tax applies to owners of built or unbuilt real estate, with rates varying by location and property type. Vehicle Tax is due annually by registered vehicle owners. Customs duties on imports can reach 20% or more depending on product category. International agreements allow exemptions for certain equipment or materials destined for priority projects.

International Tax Treaties

DRC has signed several tax treaties to avoid double taxation. For US citizens, understanding FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) reporting requirements is essential when working abroad. UK citizens and other Commonwealth nationals should verify whether bilateral agreements exist between DRC and their home country. These treaties typically define tax residence rules and taxation methods for different income categories. Proper declaration in both countries is essential to avoid paying tax twice on the same income.

The Congolese healthcare system shows significant disparities between urban and rural areas. Public infrastructure often lacks resources, modern equipment, and qualified personnel. For expatriates, securing international health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is not optional but absolutely necessary. Quality care meeting international standards is accessible only at select private facilities in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi, where costs remain high.

Public Healthcare System

The Ministry of Health oversees a network of public hospitals, health centers, and health posts distributed throughout the country. The system is organized into health provinces, each with a provincial referral hospital. Despite modernization efforts, hygiene conditions, medication availability, and staff training often present challenges. Wait times are long and access to specialized care is limited.

DRC lacks a universal social security system comparable to those in developed countries. The National Social Security Institute (INSS) primarily covers occupational risks and pensions, but universal health coverage remains embryonic. Some formal sector employees benefit from company mutual insurance, but the majority of the population pays out-of-pocket for healthcare. Expatriates cannot rely on the public system for their medical needs.

International Health Insurance

Several international insurers offer policies tailored to expatriates in DRC. These policies typically cover consultations, hospitalizations, surgeries, medications, dental and optical care, plus medical evacuation to countries with better medical infrastructure. Premium plans include direct billing with partner facilities, 24/7 assistance, and access to an international network of physicians.

Annual costs for international health insurance for an expatriate in DRC range from USD 2,200 to 8,800 depending on age, health status, coverage extent, and chosen deductible. Family plans increase this amount but remain proportionally advantageous. Verify that the contract explicitly covers care in DRC, medical evacuation, and potential emergency medical flights. Some international employers include all or part of this insurance in expatriate packages.

Private Medical Facilities

In Kinshasa, several private clinics and hospitals offer care meeting acceptable international standards. The Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa (CUK) stands as a reference facility, attached to the University of Kinshasa, featuring specialized services and relatively modern equipment. Clinique Ngaliema is another reputable establishment frequented by the expatriate community, offering consultations, surgery, and hospitalization in decent conditions.

The Centre Médical de Kinshasa (CMK) and Hôpital du Cinquantenaire are also recognized for quality care. In Lubumbashi, Clinique Cinquantenaire and Hôpital Sendwe are among preferred options. These facilities charge high fees and often require cash payment or insurance guarantee before any intervention.

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

Before traveling to DRC, several vaccinations are mandatory or strongly recommended. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and international vaccination certificates may be required at entry. Vaccines against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, tetanus, and polio are highly advisable. Preventive treatment against malaria is essential, as the disease is endemic throughout the country. Protect against mosquito bites with repellents, treated mosquito nets, and covering clothing.

Tap water is not potable. Only consume bottled or filtered water. Avoid raw foods, particularly unpeeled fruits and vegetables, or wash them carefully. Meats and fish must be thoroughly cooked. Risk of diarrheal diseases, cholera, and typhoid fever remains present, particularly during the rainy season.

Medical Assistance and Evacuation

Given local healthcare system limitations, medical evacuation coverage in international health insurance is absolutely essential. In case of serious illness or accident, evacuation to South Africa, Kenya, or Europe can save lives. These evacuations are extremely costly and cannot be arranged without appropriate insurance. Also recommended is registering with your country's embassy or consulate to facilitate diplomatic procedures in emergencies.

Education in DRC follows a structured formal system but faces significant challenges: insufficient infrastructure, overcrowded classes, lack of teaching materials, and limited teacher training. For expatriate families, private international schools represent the primary solution for ensuring quality education and continuity in children's academic paths.

Congolese Education System

The public system, supervised by the Ministry of National Education, is structured in several cycles. Primary education lasts 6 years and accepts children from age 6. It's followed by secondary education, organized in two cycles: a first cycle of 2 years and a second cycle of 4 years. At the end of secondary school, students take the state exam, equivalent to a high school diploma, which determines access to higher education.

Although primary education has been officially free for several years, many public schools request family contributions to compensate for funding shortages. French is the official teaching language, which theoretically facilitates integration for French-speaking children. However, academic levels and material conditions remain far below international standards, and few expatriates choose the local system.

International and American Schools

Several high-quality private schools welcome expatriate children in Kinshasa. TASOK (The American School of Kinshasa) follows the American curriculum and accepts students from kindergarten through high school. This institution benefits from excellent facilities (laboratories, library, sports fields) and an international teaching staff. Annual fees range around USD 15,000 to 25,000, with registration fees of USD 2,000 to 3,000. TASOK prepares students for American diplomas (High School Diploma) and offers Advanced Placement (AP) programs.

The Lycée Français René-Descartes is part of the French education network (AEFE) and offers a curriculum aligned with French programs, from kindergarten to final year. Students can prepare for the French baccalaureate, internationally recognized. Tuition fees for 2024 ranged between USD 3,850 to 7,150 depending on grade level, with additional registration fees around USD 550.

École Internationale Maarif offers multilingual education combining Turkish and international programs. Fees are generally more accessible than TASOK, ranging from USD 3,000 to 8,000 annually. Kadea Academy provides bilingual French-English curriculum with a modern pedagogical approach. Other quality private establishments exist, like the Belgian School of Kinshasa, following the Belgian program, or Catholic and Protestant denominational schools offering good academic standards.

Schools in Lubumbashi

In the country's second city, Lycée Français Blaise Pascal constitutes the reference for French-speaking families. A member of the AEFE network, it offers education aligned with French programs from kindergarten through middle school. Tuition fees for 2024 ranged between USD 3,080 to 4,950 depending on level, with registration fees around USD 330. Lubumbashi also has several quality Congolese private schools attended by local elites and some expatriate families willing to integrate their children into the adapted local system.

Costs and Practical Considerations

Tuition at international schools represents a major budget item for expatriate families. Beyond annual fees, budget for registration fees (often non-refundable), uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular activities, school transportation, and meals. Some employers include full or partial coverage of these fees in expatriate packages, which constitutes a significant advantage.

Places at top schools are limited and registering children several months in advance is strongly recommended. Waiting lists can be long, particularly for TASOK and French schools. Registration files generally require previous years' report cards, medical certificate, passport copy, ID photos, and sometimes placement tests.

Finding suitable housing in DRC, particularly in Kinshasa, presents challenges for newcomers. The rental market is dominated by upscale properties targeting expatriates and local elites, with high rents and strict requirements. Most contracts are signed for a minimum one-year term, with payment of several months in advance. Support from an employer or specialized agency greatly facilitates the process.

Available Property Types

Secured villas constitute the housing type preferred by expatriates. These detached houses, often located in gated and guarded residential neighborhoods, offer multiple bedrooms, a garden, garage, and sometimes a pool. They're typically equipped with generators, air conditioning systems, and reinforced security. Monthly rents range from USD 2,000 to 8,000 depending on size, location, and amenity level.

Residential apartments are gradually developing, particularly in urbanized areas of Kinshasa. These secured residences offer modern apartments with services (security, maintenance, parking). Rents range from USD 1,500 to 4,000 per month for areas varying from 80 to 150 m². Compounds, gated residential complexes grouping several villas with shared infrastructure (pool, gym, playground), particularly attract expatriate families for security and community.

Prime Kinshasa Neighborhoods

Gombe remains the historic business and institutional district. Located downtown, it hosts embassies, international offices, hotels, and shops. Highly secured and well-maintained, Gombe offers apartments and some villas at premium rates, between USD 2,500 and 6,000 monthly. Proximity to services and centrality make it a practical choice for singles and couples without children.

Binza, on Kinshasa's heights, offers a pleasant residential setting with large properties, spacious villas, and a quieter atmosphere. Expatriate families appreciate this neighborhood for its greenery and relative tranquility. Rents range from USD 2,000 to 5,000. Ma Campagne and Basoko are other sought-after residential areas, located near Gombe, with a good balance between accessibility and quality of life.

Ngaliema encompasses several popular zones like Mont-Ngafula and Joli Parc. This expanding district hosts numerous compounds and secured residences. International schools like TASOK are located in this sector. Rents vary considerably depending on precise location, from USD 1,800 to 7,000. Limete and Lemba, more outlying, offer slightly more affordable options while maintaining good security standards.

Rental Conditions

Signing a rental contract in DRC typically involves paying 3-6 months rent in advance, or more for high-end properties. A security deposit equivalent to 1-2 months rent is also required. Contracts are drafted in French and must clearly specify lease duration, rent amount, included or excluded charges, each party's responsibilities, and termination conditions.

Verify equipment condition (electricity, water, generator, air conditioning, plumbing) before moving in and have a detailed inventory prepared. Electricity and water bills are often the tenant's responsibility, with high rates given the need to rely on private generators to compensate for frequent outages. Internet and satellite television represent additional costs, between USD 100 and 300 monthly for reliable connections.

Services and Infrastructure

Most expatriate-targeted housing includes domestic staff (guard, housekeeper, gardener), whose salaries are often the tenant's responsibility. Hiring a night guard is virtually mandatory for security reasons. Residential neighborhoods generally have private garbage collection, water supply by tanker, and access to community or individual generators.

Some residences offer collective amenities: pool, gym, tennis court, children's playground. These services are reflected in rent and monthly charges. For families, proximity to international schools is a determining criterion in neighborhood choice. Similarly, access to supermarkets stocked with imported products and quality medical centers often guides decisions.

An international move to DRC requires meticulous and advance planning. Between customs formalities, personal effects transport, health and administrative aspects, every detail matters for smooth settlement. Here's a comprehensive checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Before Departure

1. Secure visa and documents: Start visa procedures at least 2 months before departure, gather valid passport for 6 months with 2 blank pages, yellow fever vaccination certificate, employment contract and work card if applicable.
2. Arrange goods transport: Compare quotes from international moving companies specializing in African destinations, choose between sea freight (6-8 weeks) and air freight (1-2 weeks), establish detailed and insured inventory of all transported items.
3. Vaccinations and health: Schedule mandatory and recommended vaccines (yellow fever, hepatitis, typhoid, meningitis), obtain prescription for antimalarial treatment, secure international health insurance with medical evacuation.
4. Administrative matters at home: Cancel or suspend contracts (utilities, internet, local insurance), notify tax and social administrations of departure, arrange power of attorney for managing routine affairs if necessary.
5. Banking and finances: Inform bank of departure and verify card usage conditions abroad, prepare sufficient US dollars in small, recent, undamaged bills, research international wire transfer options.
6. Housing: Organize temporary accommodation for first days, arrange employer or agency assistance for permanent housing search, budget for advance rent payment (3-6 months).
7. Children's schooling: Enroll children in chosen international school (several months advance recommended), gather complete school and medical records, budget for registration fees and first installment.

Upon Arrival

1. Customs formalities: Present passport, visa, vaccination certificate at immigration, declare personal effects and collect luggage, prepare for future exit taxes (USD 55 international flights).
2. Housing setup: Verify inventory and equipment functionality (water, electricity, generator, air conditioning), test internet and phone connections, meet domestic staff if included.
3. Administrative registration: Register with your country's embassy or consulate, obtain final work documents with employer, register with INSS if local employee.
4. Health and security: Identify trusted medical facilities, verify insurance functions with local clinics, program emergency numbers in phone.
5. Transport and mobility: Purchase vehicle or arrange long-term rental if necessary, hire driver if needed (common in Kinshasa), familiarize with neighborhoods and daily routes.
6. Daily life: Locate supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, gas stations, exchange currency (prefer undamaged dollars), acquire local phone number and internet package.
7. Social integration: Participate in expatriate community events, join online groups and forums dedicated to DRC expatriation, meet colleagues and neighbors to build network.

Tips for Successful Relocation

Choose specialized movers experienced with African destinations who understand Congolese customs specifics. Fully insure transported goods, as damage or theft risks exist. Prepare a survival suitcase containing essentials for first weeks (clothing, medications, important documents, valuables) to carry as cabin baggage.

Given frequent power outages, verify housing has a functional generator and fuel reserves. For drinking water, stock bottled water or have a reliable filtration system. For clothing, adapt wardrobe to tropical climate: favor light, breathable fabrics, and bring covering clothes for mosquito protection.

Finally, remember that adaptation takes time. The first months can be unsettling between culture shock, logistical constraints, and distance from home. Relying on the expatriate community, staying patient and curious facilitates integration and allows gradual discovery of the country's richness and people's warmth.

Despite security and infrastructure challenges, DRC offers dynamic cultural life and varied leisure opportunities, particularly in major cities. Congolese music resonates throughout Africa, the country's exceptional nature hosts unique biodiversity, and the local art scene bubbles with initiatives. Expatriates can use their stay to discover these multiple facets.

Music and Nightlife

Congolese rumba is inscribed on UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list and rhythms daily life. In Kinshasa, bars, clubs, and terraces in Gombe and Binza regularly host concerts and lively evenings. Renowned artists like Fally Ipupa, Koffi Olomidé, and the late Papa Wemba have carried Congolese music beyond borders. Live concert enthusiasts can attend performances in venues like the Institut Français de Kinshasa, which regularly programs cultural events and shows.

Kinshasa's nightlife is renowned for its festive atmosphere. Several clubs and discos offer DJ sets, concerts, and themed evenings late into the night. Expatriates particularly frequent establishments in secured neighborhoods, where the atmosphere remains warm and welcoming. However, caution is advised, and patronizing venues recommended by the expatriate community is wise.

Natural Heritage and Tourism

DRC hosts natural treasures of exceptional richness. Virunga National Park, located in the east near Goma, is one of Africa's oldest parks and hosts the famous mountain gorillas. While security issues limit access to certain zones, organized safaris allow observing this emblematic fauna in supervised conditions. Kahuzi-Biega National Park, also in the east, offers opportunities to admire gorillas in their natural habitat.

The Congo River, Africa's second-longest river, crosses the country and offers memorable river excursions. Near Kinshasa, Zongo Falls constitute a popular destination for day trips. Lake Kivu, on the Rwanda border, offers splendid landscapes and waterfront relaxation possibilities. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the vast tropical forests of the Congo Basin, which harbor some of the planet's richest biodiversity.

Arts and Culture

Kinshasa has several cultural spaces for discovering contemporary Congolese art. The Academy of Fine Arts trains numerous artists whose works are exhibited in local and international galleries. The artistic movement from Kinshasa, particularly popular painting and urban art, gains recognition. The Institut Français and other cultural centers organize exhibitions, film screenings, conferences, and workshops throughout the year.

The National Museum of Kinshasa presents collections of traditional art, ethnographic objects, and historical artifacts illustrating the cultural richness of different regions. Wood sculpture, traditional masks, and wax fabrics are among emblematic artisan creations. Local markets, like Liberté Market in Kinshasa, allow discovering these crafts and bringing back authentic souvenirs.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Expatriates can practice various sports in private clubs and facilities in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi. Golf is available at several clubs, notably the Mont-Ngafula golf club. Tennis is accessible at certain residences and sports clubs. Swimming is practiced in private villa pools, compounds, or clubs. Some hotels also offer sports facilities (fitness, tennis courts) accessible with membership.

For hiking and adventure enthusiasts, ascending Mount Nyiragongo near Goma constitutes an unforgettable experience. This active volcano has the world's largest lava lake, visible from the summit after a demanding but accessible hike. Security conditions must be verified before undertaking this excursion. Football is the sport of choice in DRC: attending a national team match or local clubs like Lubumbashi's TP Mazembe allows immersion in popular passion.

Cuisine and Restaurants

Traditional Congolese cuisine features fufu (cassava or corn paste), accompanied by meat, fish, or vegetable stews. Grilled meat skewers, poulet moambé (chicken in palm nut sauce), and salted fish are among emblematic dishes. In Kinshasa, numerous restaurants offer varied cuisine: Congolese naturally, but also European, Lebanese, Indian, Chinese, and Italian.

Gombe and Binza neighborhoods concentrate establishments frequented by expatriates, with quality and hygiene standards adapted to international expectations. Prices at these restaurants align with European capitals for a complete meal. Specialized supermarkets supply expatriates with imported products from Europe, South Africa, or the Middle East, allowing access to familiar products.

Cost of living in DRC varies considerably depending on lifestyle adopted. For Western expatriates residing in secured neighborhoods and frequenting international establishments, monthly expenses reach levels comparable to, or exceeding, those of major European cities. Kinshasa ranks among Africa's most expensive cities for the international community, primarily due to high rents, dependence on imported products, and security-related costs. Data below, from Numbeo, help estimate realistic budgets.

Monthly Budget for Single Person

A single expatriate or couple without children living in a mid-range apartment in a secured neighborhood should anticipate the following expenses:

Source: Numbeo Kinshasa (September 2025)

Monthly Budget for Family of 4

For a family with two children enrolled in an international school and residing in a secured villa, the monthly budget increases significantly:

Source: Numbeo Kinshasa (September 2025)

Breakdown of Major Expense Categories

Housing represents the largest budget item. Rents in Kinshasa for secured properties suitable for expatriates often exceed USD 2,000 monthly, with 3-6 months advance required at signing. Utilities are high due to near-constant use of private generators, water costs, and satellite internet connections.

Food weighs heavily in budgets as expatriates favor imported products available in specialized supermarkets. A liter of milk can cost USD 3.30, a pasta package USD 4.40, and imported fresh products (cheese, deli meats) reach prohibitive prices. Local products (fruits, vegetables, meats at markets) remain more affordable but require strict hygiene precautions.

School fees at international schools constitute a major expense for families. Between USD 3,850 and 27,500 per child annually depending on institution, plus registration fees, uniforms, activities, and school transport. Some expatriate packages include coverage of these fees, significantly easing family budgets.

International health insurance is essential and costs between USD 2,200 and 8,800 annually per adult, more for families. Without this coverage, medical costs in case of hospitalization or medical evacuation can be financially devastating. Transportation often requires purchasing or leasing a 4x4 vehicle, with fuel, maintenance, and possibly a driver, easily representing USD 440 to 990 monthly.

Finally, employing domestic staff (guard, housekeeper, gardener, driver) is virtually standard in expatriate neighborhoods, both for practical and security reasons. Monthly costs vary by number of employees and responsibilities, but budget at minimum USD 165 to 550 monthly for a basic team.