Chad
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 21 million people live in Chad, on 1,284,000 km². The capital is N'Djamena.
- Capital
- N'Djamena
- Population
- 21,003,705
- Area
- 1,284,000 km²
- Official languages
- French and Arabic
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Chad?
Sockets take plug type C/D/E/F, at 220 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Chad?
Call 17 for the police, 2251-4242 for an ambulance and 18 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Chad?
Round up, or leave small change.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Chad?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Chad?
Prices are in Central African CFA Franc (XAF).
What language do they speak in Chad?
Official languages: French and Arabic.
How do I call a number in Chad from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +235.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
