Emigrate to Ivory Coast

• Stable government under President Alassane Ouattara for over a decade.
• Peaceful elections in recent years, but isolated tensions during election periods.
• Security situation in Abidjan and in the south is mostly calm, but there is an increased risk from terrorist groups in the north and in border regions with Mali and Burkina Faso.
• Freedom of the press and freedom of expression are restricted; political opposition is under pressure.

Tip for expats: Choosing a safe place to live and work – e.g., Abidjan or other southern coastal cities – is crucial.

• Healthcare: Good in Abidjan, often limited in rural areas. Universal health insurance (CMU) available, but private supplementary insurance for expatriates is strongly recommended.
• Compulsory vaccination: Yellow fever (at least 10 days before entry).
• Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, polio booster, Tdap, MMR, meningococcal, rabies if necessary.
• Malaria: Year-round risk → prophylaxis + consistent mosquito protection necessary.
• Other risks: Dengue, Zika, schistosomiasis → protection through hygiene & insect repellent.

Tip for expats: Take out international health insurance before departure, provide proof of yellow fever vaccination, plan malaria prophylaxis; in Abidjan, favor private clinics, in rural areas use telemedicine and an emergency plan; always carry a first-aid kit including mosquito repellent.

• Religion: 39% Muslim (mainly in the north), 33% Christian (mainly in the south), 12% traditional religions such as the Akan faith.
• Languages: 77 languages and dialects; official language is French (often in simplified form). Commonly spoken: Baule, Dyula, Senufo languages, Yacouba, Anyi, Attie, Guere, Bete, Abe, Kulango, Mahu, Tagwana, Wobé, Lobi. Dioula is the most important language, spoken by 61% of the population, mainly in the north and as a trade language.
• Cuisine: staple foods such as rice, corn, manioc, yams, plantains; tropical fruits and vegetables (tomatoes, avocados, papayas). Protein sources mainly poultry, fish, and seafood from the Gulf of Guinea.

Tip for expats: Learn everyday French and some Dioula, respect regional holidays, and cultivate relationships through cuisine: trying attiéké, fish, and plantains together opens doors.

German citizens can enter the country with the following documents:

• Passport (regular): Yes – required for entry.
• Temporary passport: Yes – accepted.
• ID card: No – not valid for entry.
• Temporary ID card: No – also not valid.
• Child's passport: Yes – considered a valid travel document.