Business & investor visas
Cabo Verdean Independent Professional Activity Permit
For self-employed foreign nationals and liberal professionals working in Cabo Verde, granting residence based on their independent professional activity.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Validity, fees and detailed requirements for the independent professional category are not stated on the DEF overview page and require verification.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Cabo Verde government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Autorização de residência – atividade profissional independente
- Route type
- Temporary residence permit (self-employment)
- Permit type
- Temporary residence authorization
- Validity
- 2 years
- Renewable for successive 2-year periods.
- Qualifying activity
- Independent/liberal professional or self-employed activity
- Where to apply
- DEF office or a National Police unit in Cabo Verde
Who it is for
- Self-employed people and liberal professionals establishing an activity in Cabo Verde
Requirements
- Evidence of the independent professional activity or business registration
- Valid passport with entry visa and entry stamp
- Criminal record and medical certificates and proof of means of support as required
How to apply
- Apply for the residence permit through the DEF e-Residência portal
Documents you may need
- Business registration, service contract, or professional-order certification of your qualification.
- Two recent passport-type colour photos and a valid travel document.
- Criminal record certificate, translated and legalised.
- Proof of means of subsistence and of accommodation.
- Health attestation, international vaccination certificate, and tax identification number.
Frequently asked questions
You provide one of: an established business entity, a service contract for a liberal profession, or certification from the relevant professional order confirming you meet the qualification requirements. The permit is a 2-year temporary residence authorization, renewable.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Cabo Verdean visas
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