Equatorial Guinea tax rates and rules for foreigners (2026)
Tax System Overview
| Tax Component | Rate / Details |
|---|---|
| Tax System Type | Progressive |
| Top Personal Income Tax Rate | 25% |
| Effective Rate on €90,000 | 16.5% |
| Net Monthly on €90,000 Gross | €5,567 |
| VAT (Standard Rate) | 18.0% |
| Special Expat Regime | No special tax regime for expats |
| Tax Revenue (% of GDP) | 5.4% |
Income Tax in Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea operates a progressive income tax system, meaning higher earners pay a higher percentage on their income above certain thresholds. The top marginal rate is 25%.
What Does This Mean in Practice?
On a gross annual salary of €90,000, you would pay an effective tax rate of approximately 16.5%, resulting in a net monthly income of approximately €5,567. This accounts for income tax and mandatory social contributions.
For context, the average monthly salary in Equatorial Guinea is approximately €1,042.
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VAT (Value Added Tax)
The standard VAT rate in Equatorial Guinea is 18.0%. VAT is included in consumer prices and applies to most goods and services. Reduced rates typically apply to:
- Basic food items and groceries
- Medical supplies and pharmaceuticals
- Books and educational materials
- Public transport (in some cases)
Special Tax Regimes for Expats
No special tax regime for expats
While Equatorial Guinea may not have a widely publicised expat tax regime, there may be bilateral tax treaties with your home country that prevent double taxation. Check if a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) exists.
Tax Filing Requirements
As a tax resident of Equatorial Guinea, you are generally required to:
- Register with tax authorities upon establishing residence
- Obtain a tax identification number
- File an annual tax return (deadlines vary)
- Declare worldwide income if you are a tax resident
- Report foreign bank accounts if applicable
Double Taxation
Equatorial Guinea has double taxation agreements (DTAs) with numerous countries. These treaties determine which country has the right to tax specific types of income and help prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income. Before moving, check whether a DTA exists between Equatorial Guinea and your home country.
Tax Tips for Expats
- Hire a local tax adviser familiar with expat situations during your first year
- Keep records of all income, deductions, and tax payments from day one
- Understand residency rules: most countries consider you a tax resident after 183 days
- Check for exit tax: some countries impose tax on unrealised gains when you leave
- Social security contributions are often separate from income tax and can add 10-20% to your total burden
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my pension contributions in Equatorial Guinea?
If you leave Equatorial Guinea, your pension rights depend on bilateral social security agreements. EU/EEA countries have portable pension rights. Outside the EU, check if an agreement exists with your home country. Private pension withdrawals may be taxable.
Do I pay tax on worldwide income in Equatorial Guinea?
If you are a tax resident of Equatorial Guinea (usually 183+ days per year), you are generally taxed on worldwide income. Non-residents are only taxed on income sourced within Equatorial Guinea. Some special regimes may offer Territorial taxation taxation for the initial years.
Are there special tax regimes for expats in Equatorial Guinea?
No special tax regime for expats. Special tax regimes can significantly reduce your tax burden during the initial years of relocation. Consult a local tax adviser to determine your eligibility.
What deductions can expats claim in Equatorial Guinea?
Common deductions in Equatorial Guinea include pension contributions, health insurance premiums, mortgage interest (in some cases), charitable donations, and work-related expenses. Moving costs may also be deductible in some jurisdictions. A local tax adviser can maximise your deductions.
What is the VAT rate in Equatorial Guinea?
The standard VAT (Value Added Tax) rate in Equatorial Guinea is 18.0%. This applies to most goods and services. Reduced rates may apply to essentials like food, books, and medicine. As an expat consumer, VAT is included in displayed prices.
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