Planning to travel to Africa? Don’t overlook Cape Verde, a stunning island nation off the northwest coast of Africa known for its sun-drenched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Depending on the purpose of your travel itinerary through Africa-whether for leisure, business, or research-it is a great idea to familiarize yourself with the visa process for a smoother, worry-free experience.
Here is your complete guide on Cape Verde visa requirements, with helpful Africa travel tips and information while in Africa, along with how to extend your stay in this tropical paradise.
Traveling to beautiful islands in Cape Verde, understanding visa requirements would be the first step towards a smooth journey. For traveling for purposes of tourism, business, and research, an understanding of proper visa procedures will help one's preparations. It is recommended that you visit our Africa travel guide for a deeper understanding of Cape Verde and other destinations in Africa so you can learn a thing or two about travel.
Visa requirements for Cape Verde will differ depending on the nationality of the traveler. Some travelers can go visa-free, while some others have to apply for the visa ahead of time or upon arrival.
The following predesignated countries (EU, United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Brazil) are allowed visa-free entry to Cape Verde. Do remember to register through the EASE (Electrónico de Autorização de Entrada) system. It is suggested that you do this online at least 5 days before you set upon your journey.
For citizens of many countries that do not qualify for visa-free entry, visas are issued on arrival at the main airports of Cape Verde. The process is quite simple, but the provision of the necessary documents will speed up the clearance process.
If travelers are from countries that do not fit visa requirements for areas such as traveling visa-free or getting a visa on arrival, they will need to apply for a visa beforehand in the Cape Verdean embassy or consulate.
Even for those who do not require a visa, it is mandatory to register online for coming. This ought to be done at least five days, if not more, before arrival. Fill in the personal details, travel itinerary, and passport information. Provide payment for the Airport Security Tax (EX – Taxi Segurado Aeroportuária – TSA), which is to be paid, regardless of anything, as a rule.
Arrive at any of the international airports in Cape Verde.
Produce a valid passport (with a validity period of not less than six months).
Make visa payments; most embassies have visa fees starting from €25 to €30.
Communicate with the nearest embassy or consulate.
Present the appropriate papers (passports, visa applications, travel itinerary, and apparent proof of accommodation).
Pay the visa fee required (the fee varies depending on the embassy or consulate).
Wait for the visa to be processed, a period that varies from 5 to 10 business days.
The following qualification appears necessary to apply for a tourist visa to Cape Verde:
A valid passport (six months' validity from the entry date into CV).
A detailed visa application form.
A standard passport photograph.
Proof of the hotel booking or arrangement.
Proof of funds to cover the length of your stay.
Invoice showing an onward flight following the period of stay
Payment of the visa fee.
Tax is obligatory and must be paid by all passengers. Under guidelines to be drawn, travelers from countries maintaining visa agreements with Cape Verde could provide their information directly to Immigration. This tax is to be paid by every traveler, visitor, or citizen alike, mingling with visa exemptions.
Visa-free citizens will only spend 30 days in Cape Verde.
Regular tourist visas are for 30 days, and you may extend that visa in the Cape Verde Immigration Department for up to 90 days.
Business visas vary with respect to the purpose and duration of their visit.
In case one wishes to extend his stay after the visa has expired, he shall apply at the office established by the Cape Verde Immigration Officers with:
Your passport
Proof of financial means to cover your living expenses.
Reason for the extension
Pay the extension fee.
One should consider applying for an extension before the visa expires to avoid possible fines or deportation!
Travel with cash in euros, as most visa-on-arrival payments are cash only.
Always verify the validity of your pass; that should be six months, minimum.
Book accommodation ahead of time so that you have evidence of your stay when applying for the visa.
Always be sure to follow visa rules; overstaying visas may carry heavy fines or get your entry prohibited.
Equally, with the appropriate information regarding Cape Verde visas, the travel prep per se shall punctuate for this truly beautiful island paradise. Visa steps to be followed, thus ensuring a smooth travel experience. For additional Africa travel tips and advice from other African destinations, head over to our Africa travel guide.