Cameroon Wealth Tax Guide 2026
Cameroon does not have an annual net wealth tax, net worth tax, or any comprehensive wealth tax. The main periodic tax on wealth is the annual land tax (Taxe Foncière) on developed and undeveloped real estate. There is no tax on financial assets, shares, bank deposits, or other investment holdings. The absence of a wealth tax makes Cameroon attractive for high-net-worth individuals, though property owners still face annual land tax and potential CGT on disposals.
Overview — No Wealth Tax in Cameroon
Cameroon does not impose an annual tax on net wealth, net worth, or total assets. The only recurring tax on an individual's wealth is the annual land tax (Taxe Foncière) on real estate. Financial assets including cash, bank deposits, listed shares, bonds, Treasury bills, and mutual fund units are not subject to any annual wealth or holding tax. There is no solidarity surcharge or wealth-based levy. The government relies on income taxes, VAT, and transaction-based taxes rather than periodic wealth taxes. This makes Cameroon a favourable jurisdiction for wealth accumulation and investment.
Land Tax (Taxe Foncière) — The Proxy Wealth Tax
The annual land tax is the closest Cameroon has to a wealth tax. This tax applies to owners of developed and undeveloped land. The rate varies by location and type of property:
- Developed land (buildings) — 5–15% of the cadastral rental value
- Undeveloped land — lower rate based on surface area and location
The tax is assessed by the DGI based on the cadastral value. Payment is made annually, typically by 31 March. Default attracts penalties and interest. The revenue funds municipal services. Some exemptions apply for newly constructed buildings (typically 5-year exemption) and agricultural land.
Taxes on Assets vs. No Wealth Tax
While Cameroon has no annual wealth tax, it does impose transaction and income taxes on assets:
- Land tax — annual on property (wealth proxy)
- Registration duties — 7–15% on property transfers
- CGT — 25% on gains from property and movable assets
- Rental income tax — 20% WHT on gross rent
- Dividend WHT — 13% final tax on dividend income
- Interest WHT — 13% on interest income
These taxes apply when an asset generates income or is transferred, not on the mere holding of the asset.
FAQs
Do I need to declare my assets annually in Cameroon?
There is no annual wealth declaration requirement for tax purposes. However, public officials are required to declare their assets to the competent authority under anti-corruption laws.
Are there any taxes on crypto holdings if I don't sell?
No, merely holding digital assets does not trigger any tax in Cameroon. Tax arises only when crypto is disposed of.
Could Cameroon introduce a wealth tax in the future?
There have been occasional policy discussions about wealth taxes, but no legislation is currently under active consideration. The focus is on improving compliance with existing taxes.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about wealth taxation in Cameroon for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws may change. Always consult with a qualified Cameroonian tax advisor or the Direction Générale des Impôts for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.