Residence & citizenship
Cabo Verdean Citizenship by Naturalisation
Acquisition of Cabo Verdean nationality through naturalisation, marriage or union, or descent, giving eligible foreign nationals full citizenship.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The exact residence period, language standard and other naturalisation conditions are set by the current nationality law and must be verified from the official legal text before publication.
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.
On this page
- Official name
- Aquisição de nacionalidade cabo-verdiana (naturalisation)
- Route type
- Citizenship / naturalisation
- Residence for naturalisation
- At least 5 years of legal residence
- Per current nationality law; confirm the exact figure and conditions.
- Other routes
- Descent, birth, marriage or de facto union with a Cabo Verdean citizen
Who it is for
- Long-term legal residents seeking to naturalise
- Spouses/partners of Cabo Verdean citizens
- People with Cabo Verdean parentage or a claim by descent
Requirements
- Qualifying period of legal residence for naturalisation
- Legal age under Cabo Verdean law
- Sufficient knowledge of Portuguese
- Good civic standing and clean criminal record
How to apply
- Apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs / consular services (Portal Consular)
- A Certificate of Nationality can be requested to prove existing nationality
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
- SETTLEMENTRETIREESRetired Foreigner Residence PermitFor retired foreign nationals who wish to establish residence in Cabo Verde and settle there during their retirement rather than working locally.View visa details
- SETTLEMENTPERMANENTPermanent Residence PermitGrants permanent residence status to foreign nationals after a qualifying period of legal temporary residence, securing their long-term right to live in the country.View visa details
