Residence & citizenship
Cabo Verdean Retired Foreigner Residence Permit
For retired foreign nationals who wish to establish residence in Cabo Verde and settle there during their retirement rather than working locally.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Minimum income requirement, validity and fees for the retiree 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 – reformado / retired foreigner
- Route type
- Residence permit (retiree)
- Permit type
- Temporary residence authorization
- Retirees may later qualify for permanent residence.
- Validity
- 2 years
- Renewable for successive 2-year periods.
- Means of subsistence
- Regular pension income
- Where to apply
- DEF office or a National Police unit in Cabo Verde
Who it is for
- Retired foreign nationals who want to live in Cabo Verde
Requirements
- Evidence of retired status and stable income/pension
- Valid passport with entry visa and entry stamp
- Criminal record and medical certificates as required
How to apply
- Apply for the residence permit through the DEF e-Residência portal
Documents you may need
- Proof of regular pension income (pension statements or an equivalent official document).
- Two recent passport-type colour photos and a valid travel document.
- Criminal record certificate, translated and legalised.
- Housing documentation (property deed or valid rental contract).
- Health attestation, international vaccination certificate, and tax identification number.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Retirees are specifically recognised for permanent residence: someone who has retired under the law may qualify for a permanent residence authorization once the cumulative conditions (including lawful means of subsistence, a clean record and accommodation) are met.
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
- 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
- SETTLEMENTCITIZENSHIPCitizenship by NaturalisationAcquisition of Cabo Verdean nationality through naturalisation, marriage or union, or descent, giving eligible foreign nationals full citizenship.View visa details
