Do I need to open a bank account to go abroad? 

For Mauritanian citizens living or working abroad, it's advisable to open a local bank account in your host country. You can visit a local bank branch or choose an international bank that operates in Mauritania and your destination country. Banks like Société Générale might have branches or partnerships that can facilitate the process. If you have a bank card in your local country, make sure that it is compatible with your destination country if you plan to use it in the short term. 

To open a bank account abroad, you'll typically need a few key documents. First, your passport will serve as the primary form of identification. You'll also need proof of residence in the host country, such as a utility bill or rental agreement, to verify your address. Additionally, depending on your status, you may be required to provide an employment contract or a student ID to demonstrate your purpose for staying in the country. 

Do I need mobile banking? 

If you don’t have a bank account or prefer not to open one, consider using mobile money services or international money transfer to send, receive, check balances, manage and pay for services directly from your phone. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's best to check with the mobile money service providers or banks in the specific country of interest. 

If you carry large amounts of cash, it is important to be cautious. Always keep it secure, avoid displaying it in public, and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch. Whenever possible, separate the money and store it in different safe places. Additionally, find out about local laws and customs regarding cash limits to avoid any legal issues. It is generally safer to use digital payment methods or transfer services for large amounts rather than carrying a lot of cash. 

Where can I apply to work abroad? 

When searching for a job abroad from Mauritania, there are several key strategies to increase your chances of success. Start by exploring international job sites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn, which regularly post opportunities worldwide. Additionally, Mauritanian job platforms such as Beta conseils often feature listings for positions in foreign countries. 

As job applications generally take a lot of time, and most of them now start online, it is not advisable to travel to your destination as a tourist and apply directly in the country. There’s a risk that you ‘overstay’ the validity of your tourist visa and enter an irregular situation. To learn more about irregular migration, click here. 

How do I improve my employment prospects? 

As a Mauritanian citizen settling in a new country, it can be crucial to enhance your skills according to the sector and job market you are entering. The National Employment Agency (TECHGHIL) and the National Institute for the Promotion of Technical and Professional Training (INAP-FTP) can be valuable contacts for accessing internationally recognised professional training programmes. Learn more here [link to learn section].  

How do I start a (small) business abroad? 

To start a small business abroad as a Mauritanian entrepreneur, you must comply with the host country’s regulations, including business registration, obtaining necessary permits, and fulfilling tax obligations according to local laws. Depending on the nature of your business, special permissions may be required. Consulting local authorities or legal experts is essential to ensure full compliance. 

Can I export to my home country? 

Yes, you can export goods to Mauritania, but you'll need to follow the country’s import procedures and provide the required documentation. Generally, you will need documents such as a commercial invoice, a certificate of origin, and an import declaration, among others. Depending on the type of goods and the urgency of delivery, additional permits or authorisations may be necessary. It's important to stay updated on the latest regulations, as requirements can change. You may use national postal services to send the necessary documents securely to your home country. For the more information, consult the Mauritania Trade portal. 

Where can I get business advice? 

For business advice, you can contact APIM, which provides support and guidance for entrepreneurs. The Mauritanian Trade Portal is the official platform set up by the Government to provide information on trade-related rules, regulations, procedures, and customs tariffs. 

If you need advice on navigating international trade environments and the consular cooperation agreements that Mauritania has concluded with other countries, the Mauritanian Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (CCIAM) can help you ensure that your business operations comply with local and international standards. 

How important is speaking the local language of my destination country? 

Life abroad is easier if you speak the spoken language in the destination country. You can communicate with locals, find your way around and improve your quality of life. Do you want to go somewhere where you can immediately communicate with the locals, or do you see your trip abroad as an opportunity to learn a new language? 

If you want to travel to places where French, Arabic, Pular, Soninke, Wolof, or Hassanya are spoken, consider the following destinations: 

Countries with similar languages on the continent:   

• French: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Djibouti, Gabon, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Lebanon, Madagascar, Mali, Marrocco, Niger, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Togo. 
• Wolof and Serer: Senegal, The Gambia. 
• Pulaar: Mali, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea Conakry, Guinea Bissau, Cameroon, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso. 

Countries with similar languages outside the continent:  

• French: Belgium, Canada, France, Haiti, Luxembourg, Monaco, Switzerland, Vanuatu. 

Arab countries in North Africa and the Middle East: Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Syrian Arab Republic, Tunisia, Yemen. 

If you want to learn a new language in Mauritania, due to similarities with French, the easiest languages to learn are Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, English, and German. [1]  

If you want to go to countries where English is spoken in Africa, you can go to Angola, Botswana, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini (the Kingdom of), Ethiopia, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Republic of South Sudan, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan,  Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.   

Outside the continent, some English-speaking countries include Australia, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, United Kingdom and the United States.  

If you're planning to visit a country where the native language is vastly different from those you speak, be prepared for a greater challenge—especially if the language involves a new alphabet, grammar, or pronunciation. For example, switching to languages like Mandarin, Russian, or Arabic may require more time and effort. However, by immersing yourself in the language through music, videos, reading, and practising with native speakers, you can make learning both enjoyable and effective. Set small goals, use mnemonics, and practise the language daily. With consistency and dedication, you'll make meaningful progress. 

Where can I learn languages in Mauritania? 

Knowing how to speak multiple languages is an asset, both personally and professionally. In Mauritania, you can learn various languages at several private institutions. You simply need to conduct some research and enrol in the programme that best suits your needs and schedule. These training courses will allow you to strengthen your language skills while accommodating your schedule and availability. 

However, before embarking on learning other languages, it is necessary to master French. This can be done at the Institut Français de Mauritanie, where you can then take a test to obtain a diploma certifying your language proficiency. Mastering French is not only useful in Mauritania but also abroad, providing you with a solid foundation before turning to the learning of other languages. 

If you already have a good command of French and wish to travel to other countries, such as those in Central Africa, Asia, North Africa, or the Middle East, here are some institutes that could be perfect for you to learn their languages: 

• Korean Cultural Center: Korean 
• Confucius Institute: Chinese 
• Certain languages such as Wolof, Peul, Soninke, and Fulfulde can be learned through community groups in Mauritania. 

In addition to these institutions, there are also free online platforms that can help you learn a new language at your own pace such as Duolingo, Memrise, BBC languages or DW Learn German.  

Would you like to learn more about languages? Click here

What if I don't agree with certain local rules, values or principles? 

Similarities in language and culture do not always fully overlap, and one should be careful to try and understand the differences. For example, Mauritania and France share historical ties, a language - French - and certain cultural aspects. Yet, at the legal and religious level, France is a secular state banning certain practices like wearing a hijab in public services, and public expressions of religion may be limited. This can affect not only Muslim practices but also Christian ones, such as displaying religious symbols.  

When living in a foreign country, we must abide by laws and are encouraged to adapt to and tolerate cultural practices. If you find a certain context is not a great fit for you, consider alternative destinations where you can fully express your cultural or religious identity. 

Can I drive a car or motorbike abroad with my Mauritanian driving licence? 

To drive a car or motorcycle abroad, you must check the requirements of each country. It is common for ECOWAS member countries, of which Mauritania is not a part (Mauritania left the organisation in 2000), to mutually accept the driving licences of other member states for stays. Therefore, you should inquire with the embassies or consulates of the countries you wish to visit.  

When travelling abroad, it is important to note that some countries do not accept Mauritanian driving licences. To avoid any inconvenience, we advise obtaining an international driving permit. It is possible to obtain this permit in Mauritania, particularly through specialised platforms. This document, which translates your national licence into several languages, is often required to legally drive abroad. 

Do I need special insurance to drive abroad? 

When driving abroad, it is crucial to consider travel insurance, which typically includes medical assistance coverage and reimbursements. Most countries require at least third-party liability insurance to cover damages or injuries you may cause to others, and depending on your destination, you might need to purchase local insurance, especially in regions where proof of coverage is mandatory. Be sure to check if your travel insurance includes or offers additional coverage for driving, such as car rental insurance or vehicle-specific coverage. 

For more detailed information, consider reaching out to companies like Nars, who can provide tailored advice and coverage options suited to your needs. 

Are driving rules the same in every country? 

No! Mauritania applies the “Code de la Route” which is either fully or partially applicable in countries such as France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Morocco, Gabon, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, and Burkina Faso. When you are planning to drive in a different country, always check the local traffic rules and ensure you get familiar with them.  In some countries, people drive on the left side of the road. Always check the specific driving requirements and regulations of the country you plan to visit before departure. You’ll be unable to justify a traffic violation by claiming that you obtained your driving licence in your home country. 

How do I find opportunities to study abroad?   

There are several ways to learn about and apply to universities and courses abroad. Start by contacting Mauritanian schools like the University of Nouakchott, as many offer exchange or twinning programmes with foreign institutions and can provide information on available courses in your chosen field of study. You can also contact the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Mauritania for additional information on specific partnerships with international schools or universities. Furthermore, international institutions, some embassies, or cultural centres in Mauritania can also offer various opportunities to study abroad. Building connections with other Mauritanian or international students studying abroad can also help you access these opportunities. 

Beyond direct applications, consider exploring exchange programmes, scholarship opportunities, and international agreements that support studying abroad. The African Union promotes various initiatives such as the Pan-African University of the African Union, which promotes academic exchanges and research in Africa. 

Also, institutions like ENKO Education strive to help students appreciate their African roots while preparing them for the opportunities the world has to offer. Exploring these institutions can provide valuable support and resources for your educational journey. 

To apply for colleges and universities, start by researching each institution's specific application process, usually available on their websites. Make sure you gather and submit all required documents, such as transcripts and language proficiency test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. 

What’s the cost of a bachelor's or master's programme abroad? 

The cost of pursuing a bachelor’s or master's programme abroad varies considerably depending on the region, country, and type of institution. Tertiary education, which includes universities and colleges, often comes at a lower cost at public institutions compared to private ones. Many public universities offer excellent education, and it’s important to consider more than just the price when making your decision. Studying in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, Egypt, Singapore, India, United Kingdom, or Switzerland can be more expensive, while some countries, such as Mali, Togo, Niger, Algeria, or Sudan, offer more affordable options with lower tuition fees.1 

Researching university rankings, particularly in your area of interest, is essential to ensure that you choose a programme that meets your academic and professional goals. Consulting rankings such as "The World's Highest and Lowest Tuition Fees" and reports such as the OECD's "Education at a Glance" or UNESCO's "The Right to Higher Education in Africa" can provide valuable insights into the cost and quality of education. 

It's important to note that tuition fees and other education-related costs may vary over time and depend on the specific institution. Prices may fluctuate due to inflation, changes in government policies, or institutional decisions. It is therefore essential to check the latest fees directly with the university or the relevant authorities. Also, when comparing costs between different countries or institutions, you should use the same currency to ensure an accurate comparison. Currency exchange rates can significantly impact the perceived cost of education. 

Where can Mauritanian students find scholarships to study abroad? 

Scholarship resources are published on tewjih.com. Since August 2024, the Directorate of Orientation and Scholarships in Mauritania has implemented a new policy regarding the allocation of study scholarships. Henceforth, these scholarships are exclusively reserved for students enrolled in a postgraduate programme (that is, at master's and doctoral levels). Therefore, if you are a postgraduate student, you can seize this opportunity to lower your study costs and dedicate more time to your research or academic pursuits. The scholarships offered by the Directorate of Orientation and Scholarships generally cover various aspects of educational expenses, ranging from tuition fees to housing aid. 

There are several scholarships available for Mauritanian youths. A notable scholarship programme is the Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility (ICM) Scholarship, which provides funding for students from partner countries to study at European universities. You may also consider the fully funded Fulbright Foreign Student Program in the USA, the Chevening Scholarship in the UK, the Australia Awards in Australia, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship in Switzerland, the DAAD scholarship in Germany and many more to pursue your studies abroad.  

For scholarship opportunities in Africa, consider several options. The African Union offers scholarships such as the Kwame Nkrumah Scientific Awards for postgraduate studies and research in science and technology, as well as other scholarships for African students. The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program provides scholarships for students from Africa to study at partner universities across the continent. Additionally, the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) Scholarship and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Program support students from developing countries, including Mauritania. 

As far as universities offering scholarships are concerned, you can study at Université Mohamed V in Rabat, Morocco; Université Cadi Ayyad in Marrakech, Morocco; Université de Tunis El Manar in Tunis, Tunisia; Université de Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso; and Université de Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Each of these institutions offers various types of scholarships and opportunities for students from across Africa. 

Will my Mauritanian qualifications be recognised abroad?   

To know whether your studies from Mauritania will be recognised abroad, it’s important to consider whether your degree programme and university were accredited or recognised at the time of your graduation.   

If your goal is to study abroad, it is crucial to inquire about the recognition of your diplomas in the host country. Some foreign universities require a Diploma Evaluation or equivalency before accepting your enrolment. This procedure allows institutions to verify the validity and level of your degree within their own educational system. To avoid any delays in your admission, it is advisable to start this process well in advance. Research the relevant organisations responsible for evaluating qualifications, such as accreditation agencies or international education services in the country where you plan to study. 

For Mauritanian citizens, specific degrees such as the bachelor's, master's, advanced studies diploma, engineering diploma, and doctorate can be evaluated for a declaration of comparability, which is often required for diploma recognition in foreign countries. However, diplomas such as the Higher Technician's Certificate (B.T.S.), the Higher Technician Diploma (D.T.S.), and others are generally not included in these evaluations. 

We also recommend contacting the Mauritanian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MESRS), as well as the Directorate of Examinations and Competitions (DEC), for more information on diploma conversion, types of diplomas, and university access possibilities. 

Before requesting a comparability statement, ensure that all necessary documents, such as your university degree and transcripts, are in order. For more information on accredited programmes and recognised private institutions in Mauritania, you can consult the website of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research or that of the Mauritanian Authority for Quality Assurance in Higher Education. This preparation can help you understand the international value of your Mauritanian qualifications. 

If your Mauritanian degrees are not recognised abroad, consider pursuing bridging courses or local degrees to meet local standards, obtaining globally recognised professional certifications, and gaining local work experience to enhance your skills. You can also explore options to appeal for degree recognition and seek guidance from education advisors or consulates to navigate the process effectively. These can help you overcome recognition challenges and advance your career. 

What if I need emergency care abroad? 

Even if you're young and in good health, it's essential to have valid travel insurance when you travel abroad. The insurance must be valid in your destination region, cover the entire duration of your stay, and offer comprehensive coverage, particularly in the event of a medical emergency. Click here to learn more about medical insurance and what to do if you need emergency medical care abroad.   

Also note that institutions like Nars and IOM Mauritania can offer support and guidance throughout your journey. 

Where can I seek mental health support? 

When you move to a new country and need mental health services, the process typically starts with familiarising yourself with local health systems and resources, which may include directories or referrals to mental health professionals, counsellors or therapists. Learn more about accessing mental health services and leveraging community ties for emotional support in the Learn section. 

Should I be vaccinated before travelling abroad? 

In Mauritania, to cross borders and travel abroad, you need to show proof of vaccination that complies with international standards. Be sure you know which vaccinations are required by your destination country, even after consulting the Ministry of Health website. You can visit the National Hospital of Nouakchott, the polyclinic, or the nearest health centre to obtain information on vaccinations and request a vaccination card based on the information you have gathered about mandatory vaccines. If you are not vaccinated for certain diseases, you may be denied entry to your destination country, quarantined upon arrival, or face difficulties in accessing certain services. Don’t forget to bring your immunisation or vaccination documents with you while travelling abroad.  

What should I consider when choosing a mode of transportation? 

When travelling from Mauritania to another country, or even within the country, it's essential to prioritise safety along with considering your destination (explore destinations here), budget, and other factors. Here’s a quick comparison: 

1. Air travel 

• Cost: Air travel is generally more expensive, but prices vary according to destination and airline. 
• Documentation: Requires a valid passport, visa (if required) and any vaccination certificates. 
• Time: The fastest option. For example, example, Nouakchott to Paris takes about 5-6 hours, while flights from Nouakchott to other African countries may take longer due to layovers and stopovers. 
• Safety: Air transport is the safest mode of transport, with fewer risks than land or sea transport. 

2. Land travel 

• Cost: Overland trips from Mauritania to West Africa are often more affordable than flights, especially to countries like Senegal or Mali. Check the safety conditions and formalities before departure. 
• Time: Much longer, depending on the distance and the condition of the roads. For example, the bus journey from Nouakchott to Bamako in Mali can take from 21 to 30 hours. 
• Documentation: Be sure you have your passport or ID card (depending on the requirements of the destination country), as you must carry identification documents to cross borders during land travel. Ensure that your documents are valid and accompanied by the required visas for the countries you will be passing through. 
• Safety: Less safe due to potential road conditions, political instability, and banditry. 

3. Water travel 

• Cost: Varies widely. Ferries or cargo ships can be cheaper than flying but more expensive than land travel for longer routes. 
• Time: The slowest option, with journeys taking several days or weeks depending on the route and weather. 
• Documentation: Like air travel, requires a passport, ID card and possibly a visa. Additional documents may be needed for international shipping routes. 
• Safety: Riskier due to weather conditions, piracy in some areas, and the lengthy duration of the journey. 

We encourage you to always choose regular migration routes and to be aware of the consequences of irregular migration by land, desert or sea. Learn more about irregular migration risks here. 

What is smuggling and how do I know if I am being smuggled? 

Migrant smuggling involves facilitating the illegal entry of a person into a country of which he or she is not a citizen or permanent resident, usually for financial or material gain. A smuggler is a person who organises this illegal entry and profits from it. You can be trafficked if you are helped to cross borders without the required documents, in a dangerous or illegal manner, and if the person helping you demands payment for this service. Learn to recognise and protect yourself from smugglers here.  

What is human trafficking? 

Human trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of force, coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power or vulnerability, for the purpose of exploitation. Traffickers are individuals or groups who engage in these activities, often targeting vulnerable people by manipulating them or forcing them into situations where they are exploited. Learn more about protecting yourself from trafficking and exploitation here. 

What is irregular migration? 

Irregular migration happens when people travel without following the rules or having the right documents. For example, someone might enter a country without going through the official border gates, stay longer than their visa allows, or work without permission. Irregular migration can lead to deportation, exploitation, trafficking, and even loss of life. Click here to learn how to protect yourself and what to do if you find yourself in such a situation.

Exploitation involves taking advantage of someone for personal gain, often through force, deception, or manipulation. This can include forcing someone to work without fair pay, engaging in illegal activities, or using them for sexual purposes or organ removal. Exploitation can happen to anyone. Learn how you can help protect yourself and others here.