Law in Togo

Law in Togo sets the rules for work, migration, criminal offences, purchases and private relationships. Its main areas include labor law, immigration law, criminal law, consumer protection and civil law. The applicable rules depend on the subject, the people involved and the responsible authority.

Labor law

Labor law covers contracts, working time, pay, leave and dismissal.

Immigration law

Immigration law in Togo governs entry, visas, residence, work, study, family migration, refugee protection, naturalisation and nationality. Since 18 May 2026, nationals of every African state may enter visa-free with a valid national passport for up to 30 days, but this does not automatically allow paid work or permanent establishment. Longer stays and specific purposes require the relevant permission from the Togolese authorities.

Right of residence

Criminal law

Criminal law in Togo defines punishable conduct, sets procedures for investigation and trial, and protects the rights of suspects, accused persons, convicted persons and victims. The framework is based mainly on the 2015 Criminal Code, the Constitution and the 1983 Code of Criminal Procedure, which remains in use. Police, the gendarmerie, the public prosecutor's office and the courts handle different stages of a criminal case.

Consumer protection

Consumer protection in Togo covers the rights and complaint options of people buying goods, services, financial products and digital offers from businesses. Loi n°99-011 requires clear price and sales information, receipts or invoices, truthful advertising and protection against the refusal of legitimate sales; that law does not establish a general statutory return period. Protection is fragmented across sector regulators, public services and consumer organisations, so the correct contact depends on the product or service.

Civil law

Civil law in Togo governs legal relationships between private persons and organisations. It covers personal status, contracts, property, family matters, inheritance, civil liability, court proceedings and enforcement. The main framework consists of the Code civil, the Code des personnes et de la famille, the Code foncier et domanial, the Code de procédure civile and relevant OHADA rules.

VivAVia can make mistakes. Check important information.