Living in Antananarivo as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Foreign expats are required to have a work permit and valid employment contract to work in Antananarivo. They must also apply for an entry visa, which can be obtained at any Madagascar embassy in their home countries, or upon arrival in Antananarivo. New residents and retirees are also required to have a residence permit. All these procedures can be done at the General Directorate of Immigration and Emigration Service.

Language resources

Madagascar's official language is Malagasy. However, French is widely spoken, and English is becoming more popular, especially among the younger generations. Expats can enroll in language schools such as Amiti Language Centre, Expanish, and Madagascar School of Language to learn French and Malagasy. Additionally, several online courses and language apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone can also help you learn the language from the comfort of your home.

Housing

The cost of housing in Antananarivo varies considerably based on the area, location type, and amenities. Monthly rental prices for a one-bed apartment in a shared house range from $120 to $150 USD. Rent for a one-bed apartment in the city center is between $250 and $350 USD. For a two-bed room apartment, you can expect to pay between $300 and $550 USD. For a three plus bedroom house, landlords charge an average of around $600 to $900 USD each month.

Groceries

Antananarivo's grocery expenditure varies depending on dietary preferences and lifestyle. A basic grocery package for a family of four can cost between $100 to $200 USD per month, depending on how healthy you eat. Imported food products such as cheese, meat, wine, and beer tend to be more expensive. Fresh local fruits and vegetables are very affordable, as are staple foods such as rice and lentils.

Transportation

Antananarivo's transportation costs are relatively low compared to other major African cities. A one-way ticket for a taxi-brousse is around $0.25 USD, while a monthly pass costs about $20 USD. Cyclo-pousse fares range from $0.15 to $0.35 USD for distances under two kilometers and $0.60 to $0.75 USD for longer routes of up to 5 kilometers. In Antananarivo, you can expect to spend between $20 to $50 USD monthly on transportation.

Antananarivo enjoys a moderate tropical highland climate with minimal rainfall. The city is blessed with a stunning landscape comprising a chain of hills that provide added charm. The climate is variable, characterized by hot and wet summers, running from September to April, and cool and dry winters that run from May to August. January is the hottest month, with a temperature of about 22°C, while July is the coldest, with an average temperature of approximately 14°C.

Antananarivo's job market is flourishing, making it a hotspot for job seekers. The city is a hub for several key industries, including agriculture, tourism, finance, and services. The public administration and social services sectors employ the majority of the workforce, accounting for over 35% of the jobs. Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries are the second biggest employers in Antananarivo, accounting for about 24% of jobs. Other critical sectors include financial activities, construction, and manufacturing, all providing ample opportunities for expats to explore.

Antananarivo has a well-established healthcare system that includes both private and public facilities. Private hospitals offer superior medical care, and their services are not restricted to expats alone. The public medical facilities are well-equipped and provide competent service at affordable prices. Major public hospitals include Tokinolava and Fort Dauphin. For dental care, Hôpital Pasteur is a recommended facility in the city. Expats can also opt for specialized facilities in Antananarivo, such as Hôpitaux Privés D'Antananarivo. From pharmacies to pediatricians, Antananarivo has a diverse pool of healthcare options.

The public transportation system in Antananarivo is mainly composed of minibuses, known as 'taxi-brousse,' and cyclo-pousse, which are pedal-rickshaw cycles. Taxis-brousse are spacious, comfortable, and affordable. Their routes cover most parts of the city, and they can take you anywhere you need to go. They are available throughout the city, including in the suburbs. Cyclo-pousse offers an alternative, more eco-friendly mode of transportation. They are affordable and can take you through narrow roads that taxis-brousse can't access. The road network in Antananarivo is efficient, and the streets are wide enough to accommodate these modes of transport.

Antananarivo is a relatively safe city when compared to other African capitals. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching may occur, particularly in crowded places. Expats should be cautious in areas that are less populated, especially in the suburbs at night. As much as possible, try not to carry valuables, keep necessities in your pockets, and don't disclose vital information to strangers. Be cautious of beggars and street vendors who could cause distractions.