Cabo Verde visas
Whether you need a visa for Cabo Verde depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay. Citizens of many countries are exempt from a short-stay visa, but almost all air travellers must still complete the mandatory EASE pre-registration and pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA) before arrival, while longer stays for work, study, family or residence require a permit. Entry, visas and residence are administered by the Direção de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (DEF), with short-stay visas issued through Cabo Verdean embassies and consulates under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Cabo Verdean visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Cabo Verde — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.3 visas
- Work visasComing to Cabo Verde to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Cabo Verde — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Cabo Verde.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Cabo Verde as a highly skilled individual.5 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Cabo Verde long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.3 visas
Cabo Verdean visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Cabo Verde — key facts
- Visa authority
- Direção de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (DEF)
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Cape Verdean escudo (CVE)
- Time zone
- Cape Verde Time (UTC−01:00)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.