Some history of Angola

Angola, the Republic of Angola, is a country in southwestern Africa. Angola is a name that comes from a Kimbundu word for king or N’gola. The capital in the city being Luanda coming from Portuguese and being the country’s commercial center. Starting in the 15^th century interest from Portuguese colonist grew and trading and settlement took place. Angola was founded by the Portuguese and still is the recognized language of the nation.

Portuguese explorer Paulo Dias de Novais founded Angola in the beginning of 16th century with a very large grouping of families of colonists and close to four hundred soldiers. Luanda was allowed the status of city in 1605. The King of the Kongo changed and adopted Christianity and a similar political structure to the Europeans. The king became a popular figure in Europe, and even received letters from the Pope.

After which the Dutch because of the Portuguese Restoration war possessed Angola for a short period from 1641 to 1648. Portugal took possession of territories in the area which were ruled as a colony from 1655 onward.  Angola is well known for diamonds and oil.

Angola has sustained many wars and finally after the Angolan War of Independence (1961–1974) they achieved independence from Portugal on November 11, 1975. The agreement is named the Alvor Agreement.

Today as a nation and proper documentation

There are a lot of people in the world who are doing or just going to do a business in the country of Angola. Angola is a very distinctive country and has its own positions regarding foreign, private and corporate investments. Also regulations for establishing representative or branch offices, buying stocks, tax returns, document legalization and repatriation of funds, etc.

Proper documentation for prospective investors, clients, people who want to adopt a child, those who are applying for dual citizenship and tourists is required.

It is crucial to remember that all types of documents will be accepted by the Angolan authorities only after final certification by the Angolan embassy in the foreign country. Those who reside or visit in the United States of America should know that in March 2011, the Republic of Angola has ceased to offer any Consular services at their embassy in Washington, DC. Since then all consular operations, including authentication services has been moved to the Consulate of Angola in New York City.

It is important to seek professional guidance and assistance with matters in Angola especially after changes in the spring of 2011. Professional advice can make the process efficient and trouble-free.

To use documents in Angola one needs to have their documents certified by the United States Department of State. At this point, the Angolan consulate will recognize the document that is to be used overseas.

Some basic requirements include translation of paperwork and even articles from the U.S. Department of State into Portuguese. Luckily translation does not have a requirement for being signed or stamped.

**The procedure is complicated and professional assistance is recommended*