Living in the Timor-Leste guide for expats

Occupying the total of 15,410 km2, the country includes the eastern part of Timor Island, the Ambeno region, and the smaller islands of Atauro and Jaco. The population of East Timor is 1,167,242 people, and the country's official languages are Portuguese and Tetum. Dili isn't only the capital and East Timor's largest city, but also the country's commercial centre and where the main port is located.

The economy of East Timor is classified as low-income, and the country suffers from a high unemployment rate. Oil extraction and processing, and coffee exports are important sectors. Also, the country is working on a transition to a larger private sector.

Residents of all countries can obtain a visa to East Timor on arrival ' but bear in mind that you will have to enter the country at the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport or seaport in Dili. Visas on arrival are not available for land arrivals. Citizens of Portugal and Indonesia can travel to East Timor visa-free.

Boasting a magnificent coastline and abundant marine life, East Timor offers some of the best scuba diving in the world with the island of Atauro being the prime diving spot in the region.

There are some precautions to be taken when travelling in the region. With the country's newly gained political status, it still suffers from occasional internal conflicts, and travellers are discouraged to travel to the region during the times of unrest.