Cabo Verde is an island country situated in the Atlantic Ocean right at the center, about 570 Km from the mainland of Africa, westwards. The country enjoys mountains and active and famous volcanoes with each of the ten islands offering different aspects of nature, culture and history. And with this guide to Cabo Verde visa, Tourists would be able to travel and enjoy both the dry as well as green and tropical vegetation, thus catering for their sense of adventure and exploration. Travel options in Cabo Verde can be as active as climbing the Fogo Volcano or relaxing on the sandy shores of Sal or Boa Vista island.
The Physical Environment of Cabo Verde is Just as attractive as the Culture, with the Islands Classified into Two Groups the Cowed Islands and the Windward Islands. Through these islands, there is great variation of steep and rugged volcanic mountains, lush green valleys and sparkling white seaside resorts. Its beautiful scenery and warm humid temperatures throughout the year encourages travel of adventurers and peace seekers all year round.
Cabo Verde People, Culture And Attractions
Cabo Verde boasts of a rich and dynamic culture, one in which the influences of Africa and its way of life, and those of the Portuguese colonizers merge. The predominant language in the country is Portuguese but the use of Cape Verdean Creole (Crioulo) is widespread and enhances the image of the country.
Music occupies an important place in the life of the people of Cape Verde, as traditional forms such as morna and funaná are enchants all with their beautiful blooms and beats. The festivals and local holidays also show some of the cultural aspects of the islanders, and one of the most vibrant and colorful of them is the Album de Carnavals de São Vicente, which takes place once a year and is eagerly awaited by all.
There is a tourism industry in every island of Cabo Verde and this is another facet that helps sell the destination. The island’s beautiful beaches provide rest and relaxation for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers come for volcanoes, and ecotourism activities. The islands, however, are not all about beaches and nature.
There is rich history to explore, exemplified by cityscapes like City Velha – a town within Cabo Verde that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it was once the center of the transatlantic trade and military routes. Another highlight for tourists is the local cuisine, which features delicious and fresh food such as seafood and Creole food which incorporates African and European influences.
As more and more tourists come to Cabo Verde, the country has created a formidable mixture of tropical enchantment, adventure and culture as the most plausible tourist experience. Whether you are on the hunt for peace and quiet on the beautiful beaches, or in search of the island’s rich history and nature – Cabo Verde has it all. The next few parts will take you through the visa requirements to this stunning archipelago.
What is the Process for Obtaining a Cabo Verde Visa?
The procedure for obtaining a Cabo Verde visa includes the following two methods:
- Apply at the embassy or consulate of Cape Verde in your country.
- Apply at the port of entry to Cabo Verde.
1. Apply at The Embassy or Consulate of Cape Verde in your Country
To obtain a Cabo Verde visa at the embassy or consulate that is situated in your home country, these procedures must be adhered to:
- Visit the Cabo Verde embassy or consulate in your country and make an appointment for the visa interview.
- Complete the application form for a visa to Cabo Verde and put your signature at the end of the form.
- Collect all the required documents and hand them in at the Embassy of Cabo Verde.
- Stand by until that the embassy replies with your visa results.
2. Apply at The Port of Entry to Cabo Verde
Foreign nationals wishing to obtain a visa to visit Cabo Verde are, however, allowed to obtain a visa on arrival at the port of entry when there is no Cabo Verdean embassy or consulate situated in their home country. In order to obtain a Cabo Verde visa at the entry point, you have to:
- Thoroughly fill in the online Cabo Verde visa Application Form and submit a hard copy of the completed Form.
- Provide other extra personal information.
- Hand over the completed application form at the port of entry.
- Your visa will be granted to you at the entry point.
Period Validity of Cabo Verde Visa
The validity of Cabo Verde visa is 90 days. Note that should if you wish to remain in the country for over 90 days, you are required to either obtain a new visa or seek a temporary residence permit.
Types Of Cape Verde Visa
1. EASE – Electronic Travel Permission (Pre-Registration) Visa for Cabo Verde
EASE is a digital e-Visa system that allows travellers with a valid visa or from countries with visa exemption to enter Cabo Verde for a specified number of days. This electronic form of documentation eases the process of entering the country.
It is a travel authorization valid for one year bearing in mind that the persons whose age limit is below thirty years is not allowed to stay for more than 30 days inside the country at any one time. That is, a person may travel to Cabo Verde several times in one year on condition that each journey lasts less than one month. The structure is directed only to the passengers travelling by air and does not include the aspect of tourism, hence it is very important for the qualified citizens to know their qualifications and necessary paper work.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizens of countries that have a visa-free agreement with Cabo Verde
- Foreigners who possess a current visa for Cabo Verde
- Passengers traveling by air who are not traveling for leisure purposes
- Non-residents who do not spend more than thirty days in the country for each visit
Requirements for Documents
- Current Passport: Current Passport with at least six months left before expiration covering the period of stay.
- Purpose of Visit / Justification: Business invitation is enough or proof of intent to visit a family member.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or an invitation letter by a hosting person, apartment, or other accommodation arrangements.
- Fully Completed Pre-Registration Form: EASE system.
- Travel Authorization Fee payment
2. Tourist Visa
Cabo Verde Tourist Visa is a specific type of entry visa issued to foreign nationals entering the country for vacation purposes, to engage in tourism, meeting family and friends, or even engaging in business on a small scale. This is a temporary stay visa for foreign nationals and does not confer the right to reside or engage in business in Cabo Verde.
It is meant for tourist that wish to experience in the culture, beautiful sceneries, and hospitality of the country, or even pay a quick visit to their loved ones. It is very important to understand the conditions for the issuance of a tourist visa so that a person does not face difficulties upon his/her arrival to the country.
Eligibility Criteria
The following persons are eligible to apply for the Cabo Verde travel tourist visa for the indicated purposes and corresponding time duration:
- Visitors coming for a short stay who do not plan to work or settle in the country
- Citizens of countries with no visa waiver agreement with Cabo Verde.
- Travelers whose purpose of travel is purely recreation, attending events such as tourist-friendly ones, visiting friends, and family etc.
Required Documentation
- Valid passport: A valid passport with at least six months’ validity after the expected date of departure
- Filled Visa Application Form: this can be downloaded or obtained at any of the Cabo Verde embassies.
- Travel purpose: This can be in form of an itinerary outlining the activities planned, a hotel booking or a request by close persons.
- Return Ticket: The proof entails a return flight ticket to home country or another flight furthering in some other direction.
- Evidence of enough finances: a stated figure covering the entire period of the visit. All these vary particularly by country and urgency for each individual.
3. Business Visa
People whose travel is based on work as opposed to holidays can apply for the business visa, but not to search for jobs in Cabo Verde. There are also additional special documents that must be submitted by the applicant indicating the reason of the visit.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant has to be traveling to Cabo Verde to attend a meeting, conference or another event for business purposes.
- They are coming but not to seek employment or remain in the country, although they will participate in working engagements on some occasions.
Basic Requirements
- Passport which will remain valid for at least six months following the intended period of stay.
- Letter from Hiring Company/Employer giving the particulars of the purpose and the period of the visit.
- Duly filled application form for a business visa.
- Proof of Return, onward or return flight arrangement.
- Accommodation arrangements can be in the form of making hotel reservations or an invitation from a business associate.
- Visa application fee: This varies depending on the nationality of the applicant and whether the visa application process will entail fast-track procedures or otherwise.
4. Work visa
A Cabo Verde work visa is granted to persons, who have already secured a job position with an employer in Cabo Verde. This will allow foreign nationals to settle down in Cabo Verde for the duration prescribed in their respective employment contracts. The period of validity and stay in the country is essentially dependent on the factors stated in the employment contract.
Anyone who is planning to carry out any activity or work needs a Cabo verde visa extension for a brief or longer duration is required to apply for a work visa.
Eligibility Criteria
- Employees invited by a company to work in Cabo Verde with an official letter of employment.
- Individuals for whom the contract indicates a fixed period of work in Cabo Verde.
- Individuals on contracts wishing to legitimately use their time in Cabo Verde as stated in their contract.
Required Documents
- A valid foreign passport with at least six months validity after the expiry date of employment;
- An offer of Employment Letter from a national employer in Cabo Verde, stating position and time of employment.
- Employment contract that stipulates the provisions of the work including the period of employment
- Accommodation has to be either provided by the employer or arranged at one’s own expense;
- A Police Clearance Certificate from the applicant’s place of residence, in order to prove that she or he has no criminal record.
- Provide a medical certificate indicating fitness for work.
- Visa fee payment: It varies based on the applicant’s nationality and certain aspects of the visa service processing.
5. Transit Visa
The Cabo Verde Transit Visa is intended for those travelers who are en route to another destination, who want to halt in the country for few days. It is designed for all those people who are in transit in Cabo Verde, and wish to be in the islands at least for a little while.
Most of the times, travelers make a stop over to get the most of the fabulous scenery of the country’s landscapes, culture and its distinct beauty. More than this, there is a chance of increasing the length of the visit beyond the original days.
Eligibility Criteria
- Foreigners who will transit through Cabo Verde in the course of travel to another country
- Those who wish to stay for about 4 days.
- Applicants whose intention is not to work or settle in Cabo Verde while in transit.
Required Documentation
- Passport that must be valid for six months beyond the transit period.
- Ticket or other documentation showing proof of departure from the country within the period of the visa.
- Evidence of booking hotels or other places of shelter for the period of transit in the Cape Verde Islands including proof of hotels in other countries.
- Application form for Transit Visa duly filed.
- Visa fee: The fees differ based on one’s nationality and also on whether the processing is standard or fast track.
6. Student Visa
International students who wish to pursue their studies in Cabo Verde, can apply for the Student Visa for Cabo Verde issued by the countries’ respective institutions of higher education. A foreign national can hold this form of visa in Cabo Verde for the duration of his/her study course or one year, whichever is longer.
In the event the student has registered for a program that takes longer, then reissuance may be carried out as many times as possible depending on the period of study completion. On the contrary, for courses or study programs that take over a year, there shall be the need to apply for a residence visa which entails more paperwork and processes.
The student visa in this instance, will, however, be of great assistance to any person intending to contribute to the educational system and culture of Cape Verde as a student.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be (in) the candidate’s accredited educational institution in Cabo Verde.
- It is the case when the study period is not exceeding one year or for that of their academic course.
- For categories of applicants whose programs exceed one year, that individual must secure a resident visa.
Supporting Documents
- Valid Passport with at least six months left before expiration from the end of the course duration
- Admission letter able to state the school that has offered its services to the student and its course details if any
- Proof of adequate finances within the reach of the student so as to support himself during the intended traveling period.
- Evidence of where students would stay, either to provided by the organization or self-arranged.
- Visa Application Form of student visa completed, signed not yet submitted.
- Medical Certificate attesting that the applicant is fit to travel
- Payment of Fee: differs according to country where they belong other than the period of stay.
7. Private (Family) Visa
The Cabo Verde Private-Family Visa is tailor-made for a married couple traveling with children on tourism or visiting a friend or a relative. Family is more than just about getting together, it is also about enjoying the picturesque sights and vibrant cultures a place like Cabo Verde offers.
There shall, in principle, be an individual entry short term visa or a multiple entry longer time visa in case the applicant intends to travel often within a prolonged period.
Eligibility Criteria
- In case of each other’s absence and /or legal obstacles faced in their native country and these factors prevail in the current country, young married couples with children can consider returning to the country for Family Visits, tourism purposes or Culture appreciation.
- Single entry visa shall be valid for 90 days.
- Multiple-entry visas permit re-entry within 3 years where each entry does not exceed 90 days of stay in a calendar year.
Basic Requirements
- Passports for all family members must be Valid for at least 6 months beyond the period of stay, all passports should be provided.
- Documentation establishing the Family including the marriage certificate, and the children’s birth certificates must be provided.
- Documentation clarifying the visitor’s purpose providing the invitation from family relatives or a detailed program of sightseeing.
- Accommodation: provided by relatives/friends or hotel booking.
8. Cape Verde Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa of Cape Verde is available for, telecommuting employees, idlers, or self-employed guests, who wish to stay for work and be based in any of the Cape Verdean islands for a maximum period of six months. This visa also allows for renewals beyond the initial six-month period, making it appealing to those seeking temporary assignments with a more extended distant working arrangement.
The Cabo Verde nomads visa is mainly geared towards North American, European, CPLP (Community of Portuguese Language Countries) and CEDEAO (Communauté Économique des États de l’Afrique de l’Ouest) also known as ECOWAS. There are likely no additional requirements for countries not mentioned but they will need to apply for tourism visa to go to Cape Verde.
Eligibility Requirements
- A foreign national who applies for the Digital Nomad Visa should be either employed on a self-employment basis or work for a company based outside Cape Verde. Remote working means carrying out activities without physically commuting to the office.
- The Applicant should prove that he or she has a remote job or sufficient income that is active enough within the time frame when he or she applies for.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: Valid Passport with a validity of six months after the intended period of stay on a cape Verde.
- Proof of Remote Work or Freelancing: this can be a letter from the employer or if the applicant is a freelancer, any proof of self-employment.
- Proof of Income: A paper which indicates the financial ability to fund the stay in cape verde.
- Proof of Accommodation: Such as a lease agreement, or a reservation for the intended period of stay.
- Filled-up Application for the digital nomad visa: Health insurance includes coverage which will be effective during the period of stay in cape verde.
- Health Insurance: Coverage to be valid during the stay in Cape Verde.
- Payment of Visa Fee: The amount varies according to nationality and the kind of visa.
Useful Hints to Help You with Your Cape Verde Visa Application
Getting a visa to Cape Verde can be an easy task for travelers who are diligent enough to prepare in advance. The following are some practical tips and advice to ensure that the whole complete application is submitted without any hitches;
1. Do Your Homework On The Visa Requirements
To begin with, establish which visa category is relevant to you according to the nature for which you are travelling – tourist visa, business visa, digital nomad visa, etc. It is very important to know specific details such as requirements, eligibility and documents for the expected visa in order to mitigate the risks of disappointment or delays in the long process.
For example in the case of a digital nomad or a business traveler, specific prerequisites such as a letter from employer or evidence of remote work efforts will require considerable amount of time to organize.
2. Reconfirm that Your Passport is Up to Date
Immigrant should note that before any Cape Verde visa application is made, his or her passport should be valid at least six months from the intended period of stay. Most applications for visas are denied based on the fact that the applicants’ passports are within six months of expiration. In addition, make sure there is enough space for visa stamps with no more than 2-3 pages in each passport.
3. Prepare on Time Your Supporting Documents
Consult the application guide and visa requirements of the US, pick up the necessary documents and complete everything before submitting the application on the most favorable time. Some documents like income statements, employment letter or proof of ticket reservation can take some time before they are made available hence one needs to be proactive. It is advisable to have both hard copy and soft copy of your documents for convenience.
4. Complete Application Forms in a Proper Way
When you complete a visa application form, it is important to check all the details closely. Even the most minute mistakes like wrong entry of dates or misrepresentation of information could result into delays and in most cases rejections. Moreover ensure that your contact details and those relating to travel plans are correct as they will be important in reaching out to you afterwards.
5. Apply Online Where Feasible
Cape Verde has a system of offering electronic travel permission systems such as the EASE system for pre-registration to it’s visitors, thereby lessening the hassle of travel visa for their eligible visitors. In considering online application platforms where they exist, it is obvious that the process of seeking for approval is enhanced and the volume of paper work is less. Be sure to follow the application guidelines on the website to prevent errors.
6. Make Provisions for Visa Expenses
Know the costs of applying for a visa for the concerned visa category you seek to apply for. The costs may be different in relation to the applicant’s country and the type of visa applied for. It is recommended to keep the specific mode of payment, as some of the applications may accept payment in a certain way (e.g., by credit card, or through the bank).
7. Account for Processing Duration
Costs related to the issuance of visa and the period taken to issue one may be dependent on the type of visa and nationality of the individual applying for it. For example, some visas may take only a few days to process while others may even take weeks. To avoid any frustrations or inconveniencing issues that may arise; please apply for your visa as early as possible. It is also a common advice to apply for a visa at least 4-6 weeks in advance of the intended travel date.
8. Submit the All Required Documents
All supporting materials shall meet the requirements, be clean, and be genuine. So, for instance, proof of accommodation must contain the details of confirmed bookings, income proof, in turn, should establish that one is financially capable. Providing truthful information reduces the risk of being asked for more questions or causing delays in the process.
9. Monitor the Process of your Application
Most embassies and visa agencies provide services for the online tracking of the status of one’s visa application. Therefore, make sure you note the application number or reference code, and track its status periodically in order to avoid any delays in processing your visa. Incase your visa is processed late, you can track the information and make an inquiry in good time.
10. Get Read to Arrive
After the issuance of the visa, know if there are any other conditions that you must meet before you can enter Cape Verde. Make sure you have printed versions of important documents such as your visa approval, accommodation, and return flights as immigration officers may ask for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Do I Get A Visa For Cabo Verde?
This can be done in two ways. Either through the Cape Verdean foreign missions or consulates or one can get it upon landing at any of the international air gateways in the island country.
2. Can I Get A Visa On Arrival In Cape Verde?
In case you need a visa it will be incorporated automatically for you in the online registration procedure or it can be obtained on the arrival airport of cape verde. When you enter the airport terminal make sure that you locate the queue for Visas.
3. What Are The Types Of Visas In Cape Verde?
In Cape Verde, different types of visas may be issued to visitors according to their different purposes of visit. These are:
- Tourist’s Visa: This visa is meant for individuals travelling to Cape Verde in order to enjoy the beaches and take time off work. Short stays usually following this visa are about 90 days.
- Business Visa: issued to those who wish to enter the territory of Cape Verde for business purposes, namely, for taking part in meetings or conferences, conducting negotiations, etc.
- Work Visa: This visa is for persons intending to work or practice a profession within the territory of Cape Verde. A work permit is issued in the form of a work contract or upon an invitation of a domestic employer.
- Transit Visa: A transit visa may be required even for the citizens of countries with a visa-free regime opting to visit Cape Verde in case some of them would like to exit the airport and have a break longer than 24 hours.
- Student Visa: This visa is given to persons who seek to pursue studies in Cape Verde for a long term period. It is awarded to those who show proof of being in an institution of learning within that country.
- Electronic Travel Permission (Pre-Registration) Visa for Cabo Verde (EASE): There are some instances where a traveler can make an online application for an e-visa (EASE) making it easier for tourists and business visitors.
4. How Long Does It Take To Get A Visa For Cape Verde?
Visa processing time for Cape Verde typically depends on the type of visa and the mode of application. For instance, when applying for an e-Visa, the processing time can be short, usually around 3 to 7 working days; this is in comparison to other types of visas such as a tourist or business visa applied at an embassy or consulate, which usually takes around 10 to 15 working days.
Nevertheless, travelers from some nations who are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) are able to get their visa at the airport when they arrive in Cape Verde. However, it is always good to apply for a visa early to avoid any inconveniences that might lead to delays.
5. What Is The Cost For Obtaining a Cabo Verde Visa?
Some countries are on the list which obligates the needless movement of people with the border and therefore common. The associated cost is about 25-30 euros. In case of countries where this is applicable, it should be noted that even if there is no visa requirement, it is still obligatory to use the EASE system to book and register with the Cabo Verde authorities.
6. How Many Months Should Be Remaining In The Passport For Travelling To Cape Verde?
Your passport should be valid for not less than 6 months in the Cape Verde Islands.
Final Words
Several steps must be carefully addressed in advance in the context of Cabo verde visa checklist to facilitate its effective submission. First and foremost, one should know how the visa requirements differ across all types, be it for tourism, business, work, or even transit.
There are different eligibility rules, documents needed and processing associated with every visa category. It is also very important to prepare and collect all required materials, such as a clean passport, accommodation booking, plane reservation and money evidence, prior to the trip so that any urgent issues will not arise.