Living in Togo: the ultimate expat guide

Navigating Togo's visa system is straightforward thanks to recent modernization efforts. The country introduced e-visa services and passed new immigration legislation in March 2025. The 2025 reform extended the residence permit timeline from 3 months to 6 months of stay, giving newcomers more flexibility. Whether you're visiting for business, employment, or tourism, understanding your visa options is the first step to a smooth relocation.

Available visa categories

Togo offers several visa types depending on your purpose of stay. The tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days with single or multiple entry options. It costs approximately USD 25 (XOF 15,000) for a 7-day visa on arrival, extendable to 90 days in-country. The Business Visa provides similar duration but requires an invitation letter from your Togolese host company and a mission letter from your employer. For long-term employment, the work visa is mandatory and requires a valid Togolese employment contract. You'll apply for the visa first, then obtain your work permit once in Togo, with processing taking 5-10 business days. Students need proof of admission to a Togolese educational institution to qualify for a student visa.

E-visa: the modern application method

Togo has phased out visas on arrival in favor of the e-visa system. This online platform, managed by the Direction Générale de la Documentation Nationale, processes applications in 5 days. The process is simple: complete the online form, upload required documents, pay the visa fee, and receive your e-visa via email to print before departure. This eliminates the need for embassy visits in most cases.

Visa exemptions for certain nationalities

ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) citizens enjoy visa-free travel to Togo. This includes nationals from Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sierra Leone. Additionally, citizens of the Philippines and Singapore benefit from visa exemptions under bilateral agreements.

Standard documentation requirements

All visa applications require a core set of documents. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages, a completed and signed application form, 2 recent passport photos with white background, confirmed round-trip flight tickets or reservation, the mandatory yellow fever vaccination certificate, proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter), and travel insurance or repatriation deposit. Missing any of these can result in application rejection.

2025 immigration law changes

The March 2025 reform introduced significant updates. Residence permits are now issued after 6 months of stay instead of the previous 3-month threshold. A new temporary entry permit allows foreign workers to remain legal while awaiting their residence permit approval. The law also established fines for unauthorized employment and visa renewal violations, tightening enforcement while streamlining processes for compliant expatriates.

Application process step-by-step

Start by determining which visa category fits your situation. Gather all required documents listed above. Apply for an e-visa online (recommended) or visit the nearest Togolese embassy or consulate. Pay the applicable visa fees and wait 5-10 days for processing. Once approved, print your visa and enter Togo with your visa and yellow fever certificate. If you're on a work visa, remember to apply for your work permit after arrival.

Togo's job market shows promise with an official unemployment rate of just 3.7% as of 2023 and a workforce of 3.29 million people. The economy, driven by agriculture, trade, mining, and emerging tech sectors, offers opportunities for skilled expats, particularly in management and technical roles. The government's business reforms have made Togo one of Africa's most entrepreneur-friendly destinations, attracting international investors and startup founders.

Understanding the employment landscape

The minimum wage (SMIG) was raised in January 2023 to XOF 52,500 per month (approximately USD 86), up from XOF 35,000 where it had been frozen since 2012. Average monthly net salary sits around XOF 150,000 (roughly USD 245) according to 2025 data, though this varies significantly by sector and qualifications. Salary ranges span from XOF 133,000 to XOF 2,350,000 for highly specialized positions. The employment rate stands at 54.27%, reflecting a developing economy where informal work remains prevalent but formal employment is growing.

Social contributions and working hours

Employers in Togo pay social security contributions (CNSS) at 17.5% of gross salary, plus a 3% payroll tax. The standard working week is 40 hours, extendable to 48 hours in strategic sectors. Overtime is capped at 20 hours weekly and must be compensated at premium rates according to the Collective Labor Agreement. These regulations aim to protect workers while maintaining business flexibility.

Growing employment sectors

Several industries are actively hiring. Agriculture remains the economic backbone, employing much of the workforce. Trade and distribution are booming thanks to Lomé Port's regional importance. The phosphate mining sector continues as a historic economic pillar. Telecommunications and technology are expanding rapidly, evidenced by the 2025 introduction of the TETTIC tax for this sector. Financial services are growing with banking digitalization. Infrastructure and construction benefit from ongoing urban and road development projects nationwide.

Starting a business: simplified procedures

Togo ranks 15th globally and 1st in Africa for ease of starting a business (Doing Business 2020). Company registration takes just a few days through the one-stop shop at the Investment Promotion and Free Zone Agency (API-ZF), accessible via their online platform. Steps include commercial registry registration, obtaining your tax identification number, and CNSS enrollment if you'll employ staff.

Legal structures and capital requirements

Entrepreneurs can choose from several business structures. A Limited Liability Company (SARL) requires minimum capital of XOF 1 million (approximately USD 1,640), suitable for small and medium enterprises. A Corporation (SA) needs XOF 10 million (around USD 16,400) and works for larger ventures. Sole proprietorships require no minimum capital and allow quick business launch. Your choice depends on project size, number of partners, and growth ambitions.

Key opportunities by sector

The table below outlines employment prospects across Togo's main economic sectors, including in-demand profiles and growth outlook.

Sources: Togo First, Trading Economics, Remote People

Togo's tax system has undergone significant reforms to improve revenue collection and modernize administration. In March 2025, Parliament approved a major restructuring of the Office Togolais des Recettes (OTR), the national tax authority. Expats and business owners must understand the various taxes to ensure compliance. The overall corporate tax burden represents approximately 48.9% of commercial profits according to 2019 data.

Personal income tax structure

Togo applies a progressive income tax system with multiple brackets. Income up to XOF 900,000 annually (approximately USD 1,475) is tax-exempt. The first bracket from XOF 900,001 to 1,500,000 is taxed at 10%. The second bracket from XOF 1,500,001 to 3,000,000 faces a 15% rate. The third bracket from XOF 3,000,001 to 5,000,000 is taxed at 20%. Income exceeding XOF 5,000,000 is taxed at 25%. This progressive structure distributes the tax burden according to ability to pay.

Corporate income tax and business taxes

Businesses in Togo pay corporate income tax at a general rate of 27% on net profits. Some agricultural and industrial companies benefit from a reduced 10% rate under sector-specific incentives. Companies must also pay a synthetic professional tax (TPS) calculated on turnover, with rates varying by activity and location. A local development contribution is also collected for local government funding.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

VAT applies at a standard rate of 18% on most goods and services. Essential products benefit from reduced rates or full exemption. Companies with annual turnover exceeding XOF 60 million (approximately USD 98,400) must register for VAT and file monthly returns. The Togolese VAT system follows international standards with input VAT deduction provisions.

Sector-specific taxes and 2025 updates

Several specialized taxes supplement general taxation. A new TETTIC tax (Tax on Information and Communication Technology Equipment) was introduced in 2025 for the telecommunications sector. An annual vehicle tax applies to vehicle owners, with amounts varying by engine power and vehicle age. Q1 2025 data from Togo First shows modest growth in vehicle tax collection. Property tax applies to real estate owners, calculated on the rental value of the property.

2025 tax administration reform

The March 2025 reform aims to restructure the OTR for better collection efficiency. Q1 2025 saw tax revenues increase 5.8% to reach XOF 258 billion, demonstrating improved administrative performance. By August, the OTR collected 61% of its 2025 target, approximately XOF 738 billion out of a goal of XOF 1,210 billion. The modernization includes digital procedures, making taxpayer compliance easier through online platforms.

International tax treaties

Togo has signed several double taxation treaties with various countries to prevent income from being taxed twice. If you're a Togolese tax resident while maintaining income in your home country, check whether an applicable bilateral treaty exists. For US citizens, be aware of FATCA reporting requirements. UK citizens should consider post-Brexit implications. Consulting a tax advisor is recommended to optimize your situation based on your specific profile.

Filing obligations and payment

Salaried employees typically have tax withheld at source by employers but must still file annual returns. Self-employed workers and entrepreneurs must file quarterly and annual declarations with the OTR. Tax payments can be made online through the OTR platform or at authorized collection centers. Late filing or payment penalties apply, potentially reaching several percentage points of the amount due per month of delay.

Togo's healthcare system presents a dual reality: a developing public sector struggling to meet demand, and a more capable but expensive private sector. Expats are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive international health insurance to ensure access to quality care. The government has launched initiatives to modernize healthcare, including a digitalization program for 5 hospitals in partnership with the Global Fund.

Public healthcare facilities

The public hospital network includes Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sylvanus Olympio in Lomé, the country's main referral facility, plus regional hospitals such as Hôpital de Tsévié, Hôpital de Kara, Hôpital de Sokodé, and Hôpital de Dapaong. These facilities offer affordable care but often face resource constraints in equipment and staffing. Local health centers are distributed nationwide but quality varies significantly. Access to healthcare unfortunately still depends heavily on ability to pay, creating substantial inequalities.

Private clinics and hospitals

The private sector provides higher quality care with qualified staff and modern equipment. In Lomé, reputable facilities include Polyclinique Internationale Saint Joseph, Clinique Biasa, Clinique Soins et Santé, and Hôpital International de Lomé. These private clinics charge significantly higher fees than public facilities but deliver international-standard care. Most accept international insurance and offer direct billing arrangements for certain policies. For complex procedures or specialized care unavailable locally, medical evacuations to better-equipped neighboring countries may be necessary.

Health insurance options

The National Social Security Fund (CNSS) manages mandatory coverage for formal sector employees, offering basic medical care and hospitalization. However, this coverage remains limited and doesn't meet expectations of expats accustomed to Western healthcare systems. Purchasing international private health insurance from companies like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, or AXA is highly recommended. These policies provide comprehensive coverage including private consultations, hospitalization, medical evacuations, and sometimes repatriation. Annual costs range from USD 2,000 to USD 8,000 depending on age, coverage level, and reimbursement limits.

Coverage options for specific nationalities

US citizens should explore international insurance plans that coordinate with domestic coverage for return visits. UK nationals may consider plans that complement NHS coverage during home visits. Australians can look into policies that integrate with Medicare for Australian trips. Canadian expats should check whether their provincial health plan offers any overseas coverage. Many international insurance providers offer nationality-specific plans addressing these coordination needs.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies are numerous in Lomé and major cities. Most common medications are available, though specific treatments may be unavailable. Drug prices are regulated but remain high relative to local incomes. Stock a personal supply of your regular medications before moving, especially prescription drugs. Verify your medications are permitted for import and keep original prescriptions.

Vaccinations and disease prevention

The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for entry to Togo, with certificates systematically checked on arrival. Other strongly recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, tetanus, diphtheria, and polio. Malaria prophylaxis is advised as malaria is endemic nationwide. Use insecticide-treated bed nets, repellents, and wear long sleeves in the evening. Prevention remains the best defense against tropical diseases. Drink only bottled water and thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables.

Education is a priority concern for expat families in Togo. The country offers various schooling options, from the local public and private system to international schools following foreign curricula. In Lomé, where most expats concentrate, the educational offerings have expanded significantly in recent years to meet international family needs. Your choice will depend on budget, long-term plans, and your child's profile.

The local Togolese education system

The Togolese school system follows a structure similar to other francophone countries, with instruction in French. It comprises three cycles: 6-year primary education (Prathom), 4-year middle school, and 3-year high school leading to the baccalaureate. Public schools are free but suffer from overcrowded classes and limited resources. Local private schools generally offer better conditions with smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. Tuition in local private schools ranges from XOF 200,000 to 800,000 annually (approximately USD 330 to USD 1,310) depending on the institution and level.

French-language international schools

Families seeking French instruction with international standards have several options. École Arc en Ciel, located in the residential Tokoin Hôpital neighborhood in Lomé, offers a French curriculum from preschool through high school. The facility features modern infrastructure and qualified teaching staff. The École Française de Lomé also provides complete French national education curriculum, facilitating transitions for children following that system. These schools charge annual tuition typically between XOF 2 million and 4 million (approximately USD 3,280 to USD 6,560), plus registration and materials fees.

English-language international schools

English-speaking families or those wanting bilingual education can choose from several recognized institutions. The American International School of Lomé offers US curriculum and prepares students for international diplomas. The British School of Lomé, a newer establishment, provides British curriculum with limited class sizes ensuring personalized attention. The Ecole Internationale Skandia de Lomé (EISL) offers a diversified international program. These English-medium international schools charge comparable or slightly higher fees than French schools, with annual tuition ranging from XOF 3 million to 5 million (approximately USD 4,920 to USD 8,200).

Faith-based and alternative schools

Families seeking education integrating spiritual values can consider the International Christian School of Togo, offering Christian English-language instruction from preschool through secondary. The school combines rigorous academics with Christian values. Japan International Grassroots School (JIGS) and other small alternative structures offer different pedagogical approaches in more intimate settings. These institutions typically charge lower tuition than large international schools, with a range of XOF 1.5 to 3 million annually (approximately USD 2,460 to USD 4,920).

Additional costs and fees

Beyond tuition, budget for several supplementary expenses. Registration or enrollment fees for a first year at an international school can reach XOF 500,000 to 1 million (approximately USD 820 to USD 1,640). Uniforms, mandatory at most schools, cost between XOF 50,000 and 100,000 (roughly USD 80 to USD 165). School transport, often provided by schools, represents a monthly cost of XOF 30,000 to 80,000 (approximately USD 50 to USD 130). Cafeteria and extracurricular activities (sports, music, clubs) constitute additional expenses to anticipate. Some employers offer expat packages including full or partial tuition coverage.

Choosing your child's school

Several criteria should guide your decision. Always visit schools before enrolling to assess facilities, meet teaching staff, and observe the general atmosphere. Research exam success rates and student outcomes after graduation. Verify school accreditation or homologation (AEFE for French schools, American or British accreditation for English schools). Consider geographic proximity to your home and transport options. Finally, connect with other expat parents for concrete feedback on their experiences.

Togo's real estate market, particularly concentrated in Lomé, offers diverse housing from modern apartments to garden villas in residential neighborhoods. Rental prices have increased in recent years due to growing demand, especially from expats and international organizations. Choosing your neighborhood carefully based on priorities like work proximity, security, access to shops and international schools is essential. Most expats prefer renting over buying for flexibility.

Types of available housing

In Lomé and major cities, you'll find several housing categories. Apartments in secure residences are popular with single expats or couples, offering modern amenities with security, parking, and sometimes pools. Villas or detached houses with gardens suit families better, often in quiet residential areas. Studios and small furnished apartments provide economical solutions for young professionals or short stays. Compounds (gated residential complexes) combine enhanced security with shared amenities like pools, gyms, and playgrounds.

Popular Lomé neighborhoods

Each area of the capital has distinct characteristics. Tokoin, a historic residential district, hosts numerous embassies and international organizations, with high rents but excellent security. Adidogomé, rapidly expanding, offers a good balance between tranquility and access to amenities. Nyékonakpoè attracts expat families due to proximity to several international schools. Bè, a lively neighborhood near downtown, offers more affordable rents but a more urban and noisy environment. Agoé, on the northern outskirts, appeals with green spaces and attractive prices despite distance from the center requiring a vehicle.

Rental price ranges

Monthly rents in Lomé vary significantly by housing type and neighborhood. A furnished studio downtown rents for XOF 150,000 to 250,000 (approximately USD 245 to USD 410). A 2-bedroom apartment in a residential area costs XOF 300,000 to 600,000 (roughly USD 490 to USD 985). A 3-4 bedroom villa with garden in a good neighborhood reaches XOF 600,000 to 1,500,000 (about USD 985 to USD 2,460). High-end housing in secure compounds can exceed XOF 2 million monthly (over USD 3,280). Outside Lomé, rents are generally 30-50% lower.

Rental terms and deposits

The Togolese rental market operates on specific terms worth knowing. Security deposits typically represent 2-3 months' rent, refundable at lease end minus any damages. Landlords often require quarterly or semi-annual advance rent payment, a common practice requiring substantial upfront cash at move-in. Standard leases run one year renewable, with termination possible on 3 months' notice. Utilities (water, electricity, trash) are generally tenant-paid separately. Some furnished properties include utilities in monthly rent, though this remains uncommon.

Services and amenities to verify

Before signing a lease, check several key points. Verify the presence of a generator or solar installation, as power outages are frequent in Togo. The Cashpower system (prepaid meters) is now common for electricity. Ensure adequate internet connectivity in the area, essential if you work remotely. Check air conditioning functionality, vital for coping with heat and humidity. Inspect plumbing and water pressure, as some areas experience supply problems. Finally, assess security features: gate, guard, alarm, perimeter walls.

Where to search for housing

Several channels are available for your real estate search. Local real estate agencies in Lomé offer a wide selection and can guide expats through procedures, for fees equivalent to one month's rent. Facebook groups for Togo expats and online forums like Expat.com enable finding offers directly between individuals. Word of mouth within the expat community and from Togolese colleagues remains highly effective. Finally, if you have an expat package, your employer may assist with housing search or have agreements with certain residences.

Purchasing property

Real estate purchase in Togo is possible for foreigners but requires caution and legal support. Average prices in downtown Lomé run about XOF 475,000 per square meter (approximately USD 780/m²), and XOF 190,000/m² (around USD 310/m²) in suburbs according to June 2025 data. Ensure property title validity, as land disputes are common. Engage a notary and lawyer specializing in Togolese real estate law. Notary and registration fees represent approximately 10-15% of purchase price. Rental investment can be profitable but requires solid local market knowledge.

Organizing an international move to Togo requires careful planning and several weeks to months of preparation. Between administrative formalities, shipping your belongings, customs issues, and adapting to your new life, the challenges are numerous. This detailed checklist will guide you through each step so your installation proceeds smoothly and you can focus on your new Togolese adventure.

Complete relocation checklist

1. 3-6 months before departure: Obtain your appropriate visa and gather all necessary documents. Plan children's schooling by contacting international schools to reserve places. Subscribe to international health insurance covering Togo with medical evacuation. Start sorting your belongings and decide what you'll bring, sell, or store. Request multiple quotes from specialized international moving companies.
2. 2-3 months before: Book your sea or air freight shipment based on budget and needs. Create a detailed inventory of all items to ship, with photos for insurance purposes. Schedule appointments with your bank to organize overseas finances and learn about international transfers. Update mandatory and recommended vaccinations, especially yellow fever. Notify your employer, landlord, and all relevant authorities.
3. 1 month before: Book your flight and arrange airport pickup in Lomé if possible. Compile a complete medical file with translated prescriptions for your treatments. Pack suitcases with essentials for the first weeks on the ground. Research residential neighborhoods and plan housing visits upon arrival. Cancel ongoing contracts: electricity, internet, phone, local insurance.
4. 2 weeks before: Finalize packing and labeling of moving boxes. Gather all important documents in a secure folder: passports, visas, vaccination certificates, diplomas, birth certificates. Convert some money to euros or CFA for initial expenses. Inform family and friends and provide your Togolese contact details if already known.
5. Upon arrival in Togo: Collect your luggage and clear customs with your yellow fever vaccination certificate. Settle into temporary accommodation (hotel or short-term rental) while finding permanent housing. Visit multiple properties and carefully negotiate your lease, paying attention to clauses. Open a local bank account at a Togolese or pan-African bank operating in Togo. Get a local SIM card from a telecom operator.
6. First weeks: Register with your country's embassy or consulate to facilitate future procedures. Enroll your children in school and attend orientation sessions. Apply for your work permit if employed or launch business creation procedures. Explore your neighborhood, identify shops, pharmacies, hospitals, markets, and restaurants. Join expat online groups and attend events to build your social network.

Shipping your belongings

Two main options exist for transporting your goods. Sea freight (20 or 40-foot container) is economical for large volumes but takes 4-8 weeks between Europe and Lomé. Expect USD 3,300 to USD 8,200 depending on volume. Air freight is fast (3-7 days) but costs 3-5 times more, best for essential and valuable items. Some employers cover all or part of moving costs as part of expat packages. Definitely insure your goods against theft, breakage, and loss during transport.

Customs formalities

Upon arrival in Togo, you'll go through Togolese customs. Personal effects and furniture are generally duty-exempt for new residents, provided you present your work or residence visa. Some items are taxed: vehicles, large quantities of electronics, alcohol and tobacco. Prepare a detailed and valued inventory of all shipped goods, an essential document for customs clearance. Clearance times can be lengthy, allow one to two weeks after container arrival. A customs broker can facilitate procedures for service fees.

Togo offers a surprisingly diverse range of leisure activities and experiences for a small country. From fine sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast to mountainous northern landscapes, colorful Lomé markets to historic cultural sites, opportunities to explore and be entertained abound. Cultural life revolves around traditional events, contemporary festivals, and a dynamic arts scene. Expats particularly appreciate the variety of activities and easy access to the country's major natural sites.

Exploring Lomé and its attractions

The capital city boasts numerous interesting places to visit. Lomé Grand Market provides an essential experience with its colorful fabric stalls, spices, and local crafts. The Fetish Market of Akodésséwa offers fascinating insight into traditional voodoo practices with natural remedies and ritual objects. The Sacred Heart Cathedral, a neo-Gothic edifice, and the Independence Monument testify to the country's history. The National Museum presents Togolese cultural treasures through ethnographic collections. Lomé beaches, notably Ramatou Beach and Sarakawa Hotel Beach, allow ocean enjoyment and relaxation over evening drinks.

Nature excursions and tourist sites

Beyond Lomé, Togo reveals varied landscapes. Lake Togo, about 30 kilometers from the capital, is a popular destination for water sports and relaxation. The artisan village of Togoville on its shores enables discovery of pre-colonial history and traditional crafts. The Kpalimé region in the northwest mountains offers magnificent hikes, refreshing waterfalls, and milder climate. Mount Agou, Togo's highest point at 986 meters, rewards hikers with exceptional panoramic views. Fazao-Malfakassa National Park hosts diverse fauna including antelopes, monkeys, and rare birds for safari enthusiasts. The forts of Aného and vestiges of the slave trade constitute poignant historical testimonies.

Sports and wellness activities

Athletic expats will find several options to stay active. Fitness centers and gyms are multiplying in Lomé, offering weight training, group classes, and personal coaching. Tennis is available at several private clubs welcoming expat members. Scuba diving and snorkeling allow exploration of Atlantic seabeds, though infrastructure remains limited. Soccer and basketball benefit from numerous courts and popular participation. Finally, several spas and beauty institutes offer massages and treatments in relaxing settings.

Nightlife and dining

Lomé offers lively nightlife particularly on weekends. Maquis (open-air bar-restaurants) serve grilled food and local beer in a convivial, typically Togolese atmosphere. Several international restaurants offer quality Lebanese, Chinese, and Italian cuisine. Seaside bars and lounges create a relaxed atmosphere for sundowners. A few nightclubs welcome party-goers with afrobeat music and international DJs, notably at Robinson Plage or Pili Pili Club. Quieter types will prefer upscale hotel terraces for ocean-view cocktails.

Culture and events

Togo's cultural calendar features events throughout the year. The International Theatre Festival for Development (FITD) brings together artists from across Africa. Voodoo ceremonies in Togoville and southern Togo attract many visitors curious about these ancestral traditions. Music festivals showcase afrobeat, reggae, and traditional Togolese rhythms. Art galleries in Lomé regularly exhibit works by local and pan-African artists. The French Cultural Centre organizes film screenings, lectures, and exhibitions in a spirit of cultural dialogue.

Networking and social connections

Integrating into the expat community greatly eases adaptation. Several expat associations regularly organize meetups, picnics, and group outings. Facebook groups like "Expats in Lomé" or "Internationals in Togo" enable sharing advice and tips. Sports clubs and international schools constitute excellent socialization venues for families. Chambers of commerce (American, German, British) offer professional networking events. Joining these networks will help you feel less isolated and benefit from the experience of established expats.

Living costs in Togo are significantly more affordable than most Western countries, with overall levels 43.1% lower than Germany according to recent statistics. This substantial difference allows expats to enjoy comfortable purchasing power, particularly if their salaries align with international standards. However, expenses vary considerably depending on chosen lifestyle: an expat opting for imported products, international schools, and Western-style leisure will face significantly higher costs than someone living more locally. Main expense categories include housing, children's education, and food.

Daily expenses and groceries

Basic food products remain very accessible at local markets. One kilogram of rice costs approximately XOF 820 (USD 1.35), bread XOF 490 (USD 0.80), and a liter of milk XOF 815 (USD 1.35). Meat and fish vary by origin: local chicken runs XOF 4,090/kg (USD 6.70) while beef reaches XOF 5,880/kg (USD 9.65). Local fruits and vegetables are very cheap: tomatoes, onions, peppers, and plantains cost just a few hundred CFA per kilo at markets. However, imported products (cheeses, wines, European cold cuts) available in specialized supermarkets cost 2-3 times European prices. A local restaurant meal costs XOF 2,450 (USD 4), versus XOF 16,300 (USD 27) at an international-standard restaurant.

Transportation and travel

Gasoline prices sit around XOF 850 per liter (USD 1.40), moderate compared to European rates. Taxis are ubiquitous in Lomé with urban trips between XOF 1,000 and 3,000 (USD 1.65 to USD 4.90) depending on distance. Zémidjans (motorcycle taxis) provide economical and quick transport for XOF 300 to 1,000 per ride. Purchasing a used imported vehicle generally costs between XOF 3 million and 8 million (USD 4,920 to USD 13,120) depending on model and condition. Vehicle insurance fees range from XOF 200,000 to 500,000 annually (USD 330 to USD 820). Many expats prefer having a personal vehicle over relying on public transport.

Utilities and subscriptions

Unlimited home internet (60+ Mbps) costs approximately XOF 25,000 monthly (USD 41), though quality may vary by neighborhood. A mobile plan including calls and 10GB data runs XOF 12,500 per month (USD 20). Electricity via the Cashpower system (prepaid) represents average monthly spending of XOF 30,000 to 80,000 (USD 50 to USD 130) for air-conditioned housing. Water costs roughly XOF 10,000 to 20,000 monthly (USD 16 to USD 33). A part-time housekeeper charges between XOF 40,000 and 80,000 per month (USD 65 to USD 130), a very common service among expats. A security guard for a villa costs XOF 50,000 to 100,000 monthly (USD 82 to USD 165).

Monthly budget for a single person

The table below presents a realistic estimate of monthly expenses for a single expat living comfortably in Lomé, with a lifestyle mixing local consumption and some imported products.

Sources: Numbeo Lomé (June 2025)

Monthly budget for a family of 4

Expat families face significantly higher expenses, primarily due to international school tuition and larger housing requirements. Here's an estimate for a couple with two school-age children.

Sources: Numbeo Lomé (June 2025)

Tips for optimizing your budget

Several strategies can reduce expenses without sacrificing comfort. Shop at local markets rather than import supermarkets for daily groceries. Gradually adopt tasty and economical Togolese cuisine: rice sauce, corn paste, grilled fish. Negotiate prices systematically, a common and expected practice in local commerce. Build a support network with other expats to share tips, carpools, and group purchases. Finally, enjoy free or low-cost leisure: public beaches, hiking, craft markets, cultural festivals.