Togo Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in Togo, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals.
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Business Customs

Togo has strong traditions and customs. Dress modestly, particularly for meetings and when visiting villages. Exchanging business cards is common. Present them with both hands as a sign of respect. Gifts are appreciated but not expected. If offering a gift, ensure it is of good quality and not overly extravagant.

Travel Advisory

  • Entry Requirements: In addition to securing a visa, all travelers must complete the TogoVoyage online registration form before each entry into Togo. Submission of the form prior to departure out of Togo is also required. This form collects traveler information for immigration purposes.
  • Vaccinations: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry (Travel.gov).
  • Currency Restrictions: There are limits on the amount of currency that can be brought into or taken out of Togo.

State Department’s International Travel Information for Togo

Visa Requirements

A visa is required for entry into Togo. Ensure your passport is valid at entry and contains at least two blank pages. Togo now uses an e visa system (Togo Voyage). You must apply for and pay for the visa before arrival; visas are no longer issued on arrival. Yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers older than one year. 

U.S. Companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States are advised that security evaluations are handled via an interagency process. Visa applicants should go to the following link(s):  State Department Visa Website

Currency

  • Local Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF).
  • Accepted Currencies: Euros and U.S. dollars are widely accepted in major establishments.
  • Cards: Visa is the most commonly accepted card; Mastercard and American Express have limited acceptance.
  • ATMs: Available in major cities, particularly Lome.
  • Traveler’s Checks: Rarely accepted; carrying cash or using cards is recommended.

Telecommunications/Electronics

  • Electricity: Voltage is 220V; plug types C and E are used.
  • Internet: Accessible in major cities, though speeds vary.
  • Mobile Networks: Operate on GSM technology.
  • Roaming: Check with your U.S. service provider for international roaming options.
  • Wi-Fi: Available in hotels and some public areas.

Transportation

  • International: Lome–Tokoin International Airport (LFW) is the main gateway and has direct flights to the United States.
  • Domestic: Taxis, tuk-tuks, and buses are widely used; car rental is available.
  • Ride-Hailing: Gozem (similar to Uber and Lyft) is the leading provider.

Language

  • Official: French.
  • Business: French is predominantly used in professional settings. 
  • Local Languages: Ewe, Kabye, and others are widely spoken in their regions.

Health

  • Infrastructure: Healthcare facilities are developing, and most do not meet U.S. standards; travel health insurance, including coverage for medical evacuations, is strongly recommended.
  • Malaria: Malaria is present; prophylaxis is advised.
  • Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is required.
  • Water & Food: Drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food to avoid illness.

Local time, business hours, and holidays

  • Time Zone: GMT; no daylight-saving time.
  • Shops: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM, Monday–Saturday.
  • Administrative Offices: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM, Monday–Friday.
  • Banks: 7:45 AM – 4:00/5:00 PM, Monday–Friday; some open Saturday mornings.

Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings

  • Temporary Entry: Items intended for temporary use may enter duty-free but must be declared.
  • Personal Belongings: Generally permitted; excessive quantities may be subject to inspection.

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Global Business Navigator Chatbot Beta

Welcome to the Global Business Navigator, an artificial intelligence (AI) Chatbot from the International Trade Administration (ITA). This tool, currently in beta version testing, is designed to provide general information on the exporting process and the resources available to assist new and experienced U.S. exporters. The Chatbot, developed using Microsoft’s Azure AI services, is trained on ITA’s export-related content and aims to quickly get users the information they need. The Chatbot is intended to make the benefits of exporting more accessible by understanding non-expert language, idiomatic expressions, and foreign languages.

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