Cape Verde, an archipelago located along the West African coast, is steadily emerging as a preferred study abroad destination for international students. The chance offered to international students to study in the country through the Cape Verde study Visa is appeasing to many students across the globe who want to study in a secure and friendly country like Cape Verde.
Cape Verde is not only characterized by beautiful scenery and rich culture and interaction but also has a developing education system. The Education System of the country is improving with the University of Cape Verde for example which is offering degree programs in several disciplines including arts, humanities and sciences.
This combination of cultural exposure and quality education is why students are flocking to Cape Verde which is increasingly becoming a top destination for people seeking quality education and an enriched lifestyle.
Foreign students have been targeted by the government to promote the country as the need arises and have offered a number of scholarships to entice them as well as improve the spate of higher education institutions.
Eligibility Criteria for a Cape Verde Study Visa
The following criteria must be met for a student visa application:
- In support of their application, the applicant must submit a letter indicating that he/she has been offered a place on a full-time course at an accredited educational institution.
- Applicants must be able to show that they have sufficient funds in the country to support themselves.
- There must be evidence that the course fees have been paid in full.
- Medical insurance arrangements are to be made privately and proof of this is to be submitted.
- The applicant must show an intent to go back home after the lapse of the Cape Verde study Visa period.
Necessary Documentation for Applying For A Cape Verde study Visa
By ensuring that they take cognizance of the eligibility criteria above, as well as the Cabo Verde study permit requirements, students will be in a better position to place a credible Cape Verde study visa application.
1. Duly Completed Visa Application Form
All applicants are obliged to obtain and fill out the official application form for the Cape Verde study visa. The form can be found in the relevant Cape Verdean embassy or Consulate, or may be downloaded from the internet. The form should be filled in clearly, signed and dated.
2. Valid Travel Document
An up to date travel document with at least six months validity remaining from the intended date of entry into Cape Verde and a minimum of two blank visa stamp pages. The visitor should not carry travel document for a period of six months prior to arriving in the cape verde islands.
3. Passport-Sized Photographs
If applying for a visa, two photographs in a relevant passport size not older than six months and not meeting the requirements of other photos should be submitted. The pictures are to be with a white background, and full faced in nature, measurements of such pictures are usually 35mm x 45 mm respectively.
4. Proof of Enrollment (If Already Enrolled) Or Acceptance Letter
One of the necessary documents for the application of a Cape Verde study Visa is a proof of enrollment or official acceptance letter of study from the institution where the applicant intends to study. This document must also specify the time and type of the academic program the applicant shall be enrolled in.
5. Proof of Funding
Firstly, it is essential to include convincing evidence of adequate financial resources to support the these expenses, including all living costs during the intended period of stay in Cape Verde.
This could be represented through self or relative bank statement, financial sponsorship letter, financial aid or scholarship to the extent that it provides funds to pay for all education costs including tuition, living expense and other necessary expenditures.
6. Medical Certificate
It may also be necessary to provide a medical certificate from a qualified doctor, which informs the authorities that the applicant is healthy and does not harbour any infectious diseases which may threaten other people’s health in the country of Cape Verde.
7. Police Clearance Certificate
In order to establish that the subject individual has not been convicted of any offense, as it is common to request a police clearance certificate from one’s country of origin or the country of residence for the last few years. Such a document, however, must not have been issued too long ago since its validity is time-bound.
8. Proof of Insurance
Travel and health insurance for the whole duration of the studies must be valid and provided by the applicants. The insurance cover is often required for medical emergencies, hospitalizations as well as for repatriation if necessary.
9. Visa Application Fee Receipt
The payment of the visa application fee is essential and therefore, this fee receipt should be submitted in the visa application pack.
How To Apply For Cape Verde Study Visa
1. Eligibility Check
Ensure that you possess an acceptance letter from a reputable school in Cape Verde and enough capital to facilitate both school fees and living expenses.
2. Gather Required Documents
In order to apply for a student visa to Cape Verde, one should also collect the relevant documentation. In the majority of cases, it entails a passport that is valuable for travel and with the validity of not less than six months to the intended exit date.
You will also be required to present the acceptance letter from the school, evidence of funds such as bank statements, and a health insurance policy that is acceptable in Cape Verde. Besides, attach a couple of current passport-sized photos and a duly filled application form.
3. Submit Application
Apply for your visa either in person in the nearest Cape Verde embassy or online. Please remember to pay the non-refundable visa application fee as well.
4. Attend Interview
A visa interview may be scheduled, and you are expected to attend. This may include questions about your plans for studying and financing.
5. Wait for Processing
After handing in your application form, stay put and allow a varying timeframe for the outcome of further steps. It is better to inquire at the embassy how long it takes exactly.
6. Collect Visa
Upon approval, make sure you receive your student visa and double-check that all the particulars are correct prior to your trip to Cape Verde.
Cape Verde Educational Institutions for International Students
Several continents can get education in Cape Verde and there are a few numbers of universities, colleges, and other institutions that have different specialties for this purpose
1. University of Cape Verde
A public university located in Cape Verde and a principal center for foreign students is the University of Cape Verde where the government aids in financing many courses from education, business, marine studies, and engineering.
It has several campuses located within the islands that include Praia and Mindelo among other cities. This university is highly regarded because it has an elaborate design and implementation of quality assurance in both education and research.
As a result, these institutions offer a wide range of academic options for any foreign student, which is why Cape Verde is fast becoming a popular study overseas destination. This means that in addition to low expense of living and safety in the country, it also incorporates wonderful academic as well as cultural interaction to the students across the globe.
2. Svizra Jean Piaget University of Cape Verde
Jean Piaget University situated in Praia is perhaps the largest private higher learning institution in Cape Verde. The University offers many programs such as business, health sciences, engineering, and social sciences to both local and foreign students. The institution is practical oriented and enhances individuals’ professional skills.
3. University of Mindelo
Situated on the island of São Vicente, University of Mindelo is equally another reputable private institution. It has bachelor and master programs in such areas as economy, business management, law and information technology.
Its location in Mindelo which is the Cape Verdean cultural center is also a factor that attracts prospective students from other countries who wish to be part of the island vibrant life.
4. Lusofonia university
This Lusofonia university also has local branches found within the country. Even though students are taught on Issues of business, law and international relations, most students if not all enjoy attending classes the most.
5. M_EIA – Instituto Universitário de Arte, Tecnologia e Cultura
Set up as an institution that promotes and envisions the Arts, M_EIA is the only one of its kind in the jurisdiction of Cape Verde Islands. M_EIA offers courses attendant to the students in allied creative professions like visual arts, design, and cultural studies.
This institute is important in the development of cultural and artistic promotion of Cape Verde abroad.
Benefits of Studying in Cape Verde
It is important to note that there are both social and economic reasons why students prefer to study in Cape Verde. Here are some of the advantages:
1. A Rich Culture
Cape Verde has a fascinating localized culture that is built from the African, Portuguese, and Brazilian peoples. Many forms of this cultural diversity can be seen in dances, traditions, religions, food, and even sounds of music.
To the international students this is a plus since they get to experience this rich community actively and even learn beyond the formal education from the cultural practices of the society they live in .
2. Aesthetic Values
Geographically Cape Verde is one of the blessed places with eye catching scenery including sea shores, volcanic mountains, and green hills among others.
This allows students to fully engage in the respective activity; be it hiking, surfing or snorkeling without the compromising of the skyline. Therefore the splendid views play two roles, one, serve as a conducive environment for the students, and two, promote the need to be active apart from just focusing on studies.
3. Reasonable Living Standards
In comparison to several other countries where education is sought, one can easily afford to live in Cape Verde. It is not uncommon to find lower prices for accommodation, meals and even transport which makes it easy for most students to keep their expenditures within the set limits while learning.
This benefit alleviates considerably the financial burden of studying overseas, making it possible for students to concentrate on achieving their academic goals instead of worrying too much about money.
4. Quality Education
Educational institutions in cape verde are gaining a reputation for the quality education with some universities offering degree s programs in English and Portuguese languages. The internationalization focus has also resulted in partnerships with other universities enabling students to utilize a variety of opportunities.
5. Beautiful Weather
Most of the year, Cape Verde has a warm, sunny, and moderate environment. The warm climatic conditions are favorable for the students since they can encourage movement and beating of the islands throughout the entire year.
Studying in cape verde comes with its unique advantages including a vibrant culture, amazing landscapes and reasonable cost of living hence it is preferred by foreign students who seek to enrich their education in a different environment.
Popular Educational Fields in Cape Verde
There are many academic programs available in Cape Verde that appeal to the needs and interests of international students. Some of them include the following areas of concentration:
1. Language Studies
Cape Verde is one of the best destinations for learners who wish to study Portuguese language – which is the country’s national language. A number of universities as well as language institutes have programs that are intensive for foreign students.
There are also extracurricular activities incorporated in the language courses to enhance the students’ use of the language in practical situations. Such institutions as the University of Cape Verde and Centro de Lingua have structured language programs with the various levels in speaking the language.
2. Media and Cultural Studies
The analysis of media and cultural studies takes a closer look at the unique context that includes the people, history, culture and current affairs of the islands in Cape Verde.
Most of these courses concern and emphasize more on Cape Verdean nationality and cultural theories such Yeah Hoai’s theory on diaspora with the other trends such as globalization.
The University of Cape Verde has cultural studies degrees among others and one is able appreciate the culture of the islands in the archipelago well.
3. Marine Biology
Considering the fact that Cape Verde is an island nation located in the Atlantic, marine sciences tend to be a common discipline for students in the region. Research pertaining to oceans, their marine life and sustainable fishing practices are all available.
The Instituto Nacional de Desenvolvimento das Pescas (National Institute for Fisheries Development) has an emphasis on degrees in marine and environmental science that seek to equip the students with skills on protecting the resources from depletion and preservation of the environment.
4. Environmental Studies
The new trend towards sustainability and conservation has led to an interest in environmental studies courses among many students all over the globe. These courses tackle subjects such as the effects of climate change, conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development in turtler friendly nations.
Usually, institutions from Cape Verde work with other international institutions in the process so that students can learn about environmental issues from all angles.
5. Tourism and Hospitality Management
A large number of students pursue tourism and hospitality management courses because it is one of the sectors that supports the economy of Cape Verde. These include the study of tourism businesses operation and management and strategies of tourism directed advertising, and different concepts associated with eco friendly tourism.
The University of Cape Verde offers such programmes in order to meet the high demand for international tourism human resources both within and outside the region.
6. Business Administration
The educational programs on business administration at Cape Verde Islands help students acquire theoretical knowledge on basic principles of management; prospects of business organization; and national integration processes.
Students can acquire practical knowledge on areas like finance, which helps in dealing with investors, marketing that assists in selling products, and strategic planning which helps in setting goals for the company.
These programs exist in many universities including the University of Cape Verde, and they are accompanied by a placement and practical work components.
7. Information Technology
Considering the present global appetite for technology specialists, information technology courses are becoming a common choice of study among foreign students. Courses in IT such as degree programs in computer science, software engineering, or information systems are offered by universities in Cape Verde preparing students for a growing sector.
Most of the time, the syllabuses involve some form of internship and the inclusion of projects which enable the students to practice their learnt skills in real life situations.
8. Health Sciences
Programmes in health sciences, especially nursing or public health, are of great significance in Cape Verde, as it works on improving health care services delivery.
For example, the Universidade de Santiago which offers courses in nursing, health care administration, and other relevant subjects to enable students to partake in public health policies.
The Need to Extend a Student Visa
The extension of a student visa is of great significance to those students who are in Cabo Verde for their studies.
In a scenario where the learner would like to advance in their education after the earlier indicated period, the individual students visa must be renewed.Herr are some of the reasons for this procedure:
1. Adherence to the Law
Whenever a student is extending his / her student visa he /she would be prudent for the student to convert any of the visas provided to him or her after expiry in order to facilitate the students stay in the country.
2. Continued Availability of Facilities
An appropriate and active student visa ensures that places such as the library, laboratories and other necessary facilities for learning that only registered students frequency are accessible.
3. Freedom to Travel
Including a valid visa provides the capacity for the students to leave Cabo Verde and come back without any problems related to their immigration status.
Cabo Verde Student Visa Renewal Process
Below are the procedures for extending study permit in Cabo Verde:
1. Verify the Expiration of the Current Visa
To begin with, students need to view the expiry date of their current student immigration visa. It is very important to apply for a renewal of the immigration visa before the particular visa comes to an end.
Besides, students should also remember to maintain their passport validity throughout their study period without the risk of visa extension as renewal of the immigrants’ documents will not be done if any passport would be close to expiry.
2. Obtain Necessary Paperwork
Ensuring all the required documents are in place is an essential step of the renewal process. Most of the time, in Cabo Verde, students would need the following documents:
- A passport: A current passport with previous visas affixed inside the passport.
- Enrollment confirmation: A notice of enrollment and current status from the relevant academic institution.
- Financial documentation: Any document showing that the candidate is able to support him or herself financially in terms of tuition and living expenses for instance a bank statement or a scholarship letter would suffice.
- Health insurance: A document with health insurance that meets the standards of Cabo Verde.
- Visa Renewal Application Form: A filled out form, which is mostly downloadable on the relevant immigration page.
3. Submit Application for Visa Renewal
Cabo Verdean students will have to submit the application for visa renewal to the relevant department under the immigration authorities. Most applications are done online using the Cabo Verdean Immigration Portal, with some applications submitted at the nearest immigration office.
It is advisable to submit the application especially where there are timelines for processing the application, to the extent possible before the expiry period of the visa.
4. Waiting for the Outcome on the Visa Renewal
There comes a time after submitting the application where the students are required to stay waiting for the immigration department to evaluate their application. Such periods are known to vary depending on the reason so it is good to look at the time frame and make other arrangements.
5. Get Your Visa and Arrange For Travel
Renewal in the application is granted; they will have to visit the immigration department and get their fresh visa. Thereafter of course they are expected to possess current traveling documents and book a flight to enable them resume their studies.
Practical Tips for Prospective Students in Cape Verde
Studying in Cape Verde is exciting in its own right, however, as in any other new location, it has its own form of adjustment. This is where practical tips and advice for prospective students might help them in this beautiful archipelago.
1. Securing Accommodation
Finding appropriate accommodation is of utmost importance when settling down in Cape Verde as it determines the comfort level you will have during the transition. Here are some tips.
- University Housing: Most universities, including the University of Cape Verde provide accommodations on campus or assist in looking for apartments nearby. It’s better to ask for such options during the application stage.
- Budget Considerations: Depending on the area and the facilities provided, the prices can be very different. A rough estimate is that a student in the residence can expect to pay between €150 and €400 pm, depending on whether one stays alone or shares.
- Temporary Options: However, it is advisable to look for accommodation somewhere else if one has not yet found a long-term place to stay on arrival. Most neighborhoods allow for such temporary measures so that residents can look for the best place that fits them.
2. Accessing Healthcare
Healthcare in Cape Verde is on the upward trend, therefore it is prudent to know where to access the medical services:
- Health Insurance: Make sure that you have health insurance that will cover you within the country even before stepping foot into the country. Students sometimes prescribe insurance for students.
- Local Healthcare Facilities: Know where the public health care services / private health care institutions are located. Urban places e.g. Praia and Mindelo are better as they have more advanced medical services than the rural settings.
- Emergency Services: Emergency lines and the nearest hospitals or clinics to your location need to be identified. This information is very helpful when dealing with crises.
3. Adapting to the Life In Cape Verde
Settling in a new culture and surrounding is never an easy task. It is usually an exhilarating and at the same time demanding endeavor. Here are some suggestions on how to make the process simpler:
- Familiarity with the Culture: Western Cape Verde embodies a lot of history, culture, and ways of life. Interaction with people where you stay, and attending some of the cultural practices can do wonders.
- Learning the Language: Although, almost every person you interact with in Cape Verde will understand or speak Portuguese or English: It is good to learn a few phrases at least. It adds to the interaction and understanding as well as the ability to carry out activities in the ordinary day. Join a language class as soon as you arrive.
- Getting Around: This is a must as you will want to use local forms of transport for example shared taxis (which are referred to as ‘almôndegas’) and buses. Knowing how it works helps in avoiding difficulties especially in attending classes or going out for social activities.
- Connecting with Others: Participate in student activities or clubs in your school to meet new people. It will help you in making friends within the college and coping up with the changes of living in Cape Verde.
- Discover the Islands: Make the most of your stay in Cape Verde by discovering the different islands. Each of them abounds in beauty and other features that range from white sandy beaches to hilly areas with nature and culture. This will also help in improving the understanding of the people’s cultures.
4. Financial management
It is very important to learn how to manage finances for your Cape Verde study Visato become a success. Some of these include the following:
- Cost of living: In general terms, the cost of living in Cape Verde is reasonable although it may differ depending on an individual’s lifestyle. As a rule of thumb, students can expect to spend between €400 – €700 every month on living costs which will take into account accommodation, meals, transport and even some leisure.
- Banking: It is advisable that you open a local bank account to ease the transactions and to get rid of possible international fees. Look for any banks offering a student account with reasonable perks in order to make such a move.
- Budgeting: Make sure to prepare a budget which covers all your anticipated monthly costs. Monitoring your expenditure is very helpful in controlling it and preventing psychological tortures associated with lack of funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Cape Verde A Rich Or Poor Country?
The World Bank categorizes Cape Verde as a lower-middle-income nation. It has achieved some progress in sectors such as education and health, however, the country’s economy still struggles. The GDP per capita in this country is low, thus indicating its emerging economy status.
In economic terms, the mainstay sectors in Cape Verde are services, tourism and remittances from abroad. Tourism is the most critical of the three sectors, as it creates income and jobs and makes up a considerable share of the economy.
The country, however, has constraints in that it is land poor; all food and most other supplies have to be imported which can cause trade deficits.
Additionally, even the far to reach institutions have basic services provision such as water and sanitation, which detracts from the living standards.
2. Is Education Free In Cape Verde?
Education in Cape Verde is not purely free as the government has made some efforts in ensuring that primary school education is accessible to all children free of charge. The Constitution of Cape Verde recognizes free and compulsory education for the citizens until the eighth grade.
This implies that many of the children will be able to enroll in primary schools and junior secondary schools without paying for any tuition fees.
Yet again, even if primary education is provided free of charge, the parents may be required to pay for some school-related costs such as stationery, clothes and transport.
In Cape Verde, however, higher learning entails payment of tuition fees. Most of the national universities and colleges have no free education as students are charged for their studies; although the needy could apply for, and receive scholarships or funds to pay for their education.
3. Why Is Cape Verde So Popular?
Widely regarded as one of the best tourist destinations in recent years, Cape Verde is made up of a group of islands off the northwest coast of Africa has become increasingly appealing to visitors. The spectacular views of the islands are one main reason for their appeal, which includes sandy beaches, volcanic mountains, and green valleys.
Each of these ten islands has its own distinct beauty, making it a sanctuary for nature and adventure lovers. Tourists who visit the islands are also greeted by warm, dry, weather all year round hence attracting those wishing to elude extreme weather.
Cabo Verde’s culture is very rich drawing influences from Africa, Portugal and Brazil. The combination of these countries‘ customs is seen in their music, dance, art and food where morna seems to be a crowd favorite.
The locals are also hospitable making it more appealing for the travelers since they are friendly and will ensure the guests feel at home and appreciate the culture without any hesitation.
Moreover, Cabo Verde has been upgrading its tourism facilities. Many hotels, restaurants and means of transport have been built in all the islands making it easy for people to move around. Beach lovers can bask in the sun or undertake windsurfing, diving, or other water sports and other people can enjoy these activities as well.
Many occasions are held by the islands and these events enrich the experience of the travelers with the local culture.
4. Is Cape Verde Cheap To Live In?
While residents appreciate that living in Cape Verde is cheaper than residing in most western nations, they note that the over-all containment index is much higher than in the US.
The average monthly cost for a family of four is estimated at $2,475.90 out of which is less than the cost of housing. A single person is estimated to incur a monthly expenditure of about $695.80 exclusive also of rental expenses.
In fact, the cost of living in Cape Verde is approximately 40.2% less expensive than in the United States which is a plus to most foreign workers as well as students .
For accommodation purposes, rentals in cape Verde is on average 76.4% cheaper than rental prices in the US. For instance, A one-bedroom apartment in the capital city Praia is likely to be rented out for approximately 350 to 600 dollars while in the case of other towns this price may even be shelved down to around two hundred to four hundred dollars.
This drastic rental difference is one of the factors that makes living in Cape Verde very cheap. Apart from accommodation, day-to-day costs in Cape Verde do not break the bank either. For instance, restaurant menus commonly offer food in the range of 10-20 dollars, and one’s grocery shopping in a month may rise to 200 to 300 dollars for an individual.
The average utility bill for a single room per month is about 100 dollars, while a bus fare is usually a dollar or less. Therefore, Cape Verde provides an enjoyable lifestyle alongside its favorable climatic conditions, rich culture as well as affordable costs of living .
5. Are Goods In Cape Verde Expensive?
After everything has been taken into account, it can be said that there are cheap places or dwellings for tourists, thus making Cape Verde a cheap tourist destination. Though, expenses, may vary based on the level of comfort and activities one chooses.
6. What’s The Average Payment For Work In Cape Verde?
The average salary ought to be in the range of $1500 to $2000 a month. Actually this figure masks variation related to gender, skilled and unskilled labor, industry differences and more rural or urban settings. Such variations occur due to several reasons, some of which will be explained hereinafter.
7. What Makes Cape Verde Unique?
Owing to political stability and efficient economic management, life in Cape Verde that is rated best in West Africa. This is also one of the factors which contribute to the safety and warmth, the friendliness of the islands, and is a primary factor why the tourists to this Island are so many.
Final Words
Studying in Cape Verde gives the chance to international students to experience quality education with a wholesome experience of culture. It is also committed to improve its education systems which coupled with the environment can attract students from all corners of the world.
Focusing on Cape Verde, both residence and study bring lots of experiences that contribute to one’s personal development. Students come across various cultures and languages, as well as worldviews, which extends their horizon. This, in turn, fosters flexibility and resourcefulness, which are very important in the global village today.
Taking every experience, be it climbing the rugged volcanic mountain of Fogo or lazing on the pristine white sandy Sal beach, adds value to one’s self and creates lasting memories.
Studying in a multi-lingual setting enables students to acquire language skills that are valued in the job market. In addition, many Cape Verdean institutions of higher learning admit students in small numbers, which helps them to develop a good rapport with their professors and receive guidance and support.