The immigration authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have introduced biometric Work Cards for foreign nationals in country. Foreign nationals currently holding a Work Card must obtain new biometric Work Cards by August 10, 2017. The requirements for the new cards are as follows:

• Personal appearance (appointment is suggested, but not required) at the Ministry of Labor to take pictures and provide biometrics; and
• Payment of fee of USD 280.00.

The new biometric cards will be issued within  23 business days of personal appearance at the Ministry of Labor and fee payment.
Immigration authorities are expected to start auditing employers' premises in August 2017 to ensure compliance with this directive.

What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
Employers should ensure that their foreign national holders of Work Cards schedule appointments and obtain new biometric Work Cards before August 10, 2017.  However, penalties for non-compliance with this directive have not been specified yet.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to AfricaInfo@fragomen.com

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