Visa guide
Visa-free Countries for Cape Verde Passport Holders
Every destination Cape Verdian can enter visa-free — visa-not-required, visa-on-arrival and eVisa options.
Visa not required countries for Cape Verdian passport holders
50 countries do not require Cape Verdian passport holders to obtain a visa before entering — you can travel on a valid passport alone.
Visa on arrival countries for Cape Verdian passport holders
24 countries let Cape Verdian passport holders pick up a visa at the port of entry. There is usually a fee at the immigration desk, though some countries issue it free of charge.
E-visa countries for Cape Verdian passport holders
23 countries require Cape Verdian passport holders to obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) online before they travel.
General visa requirements & things to know before you travel
A general checklist of what most countries ask for when Cape Verdian apply for a visa.
- A valid international travel passport
- A completed visa application form
- The applicable visa fee
- Evidence of permission to enter the destination country
- A photocopy of your passport data page
- Financial proof — an original bank statement
- A letter of invitation, where one is required
Exact requirements vary by destination and visa type — always confirm what your destination needs before you apply.
Visa information for other nationalities
Visa requirements for travellers from other countries visiting Cape Verde.
About Cape Verde
Cape Verde, one of the most developed countries in Africa is an archipelago consisting of 10 islands and several islets. The islands are divided into two groups:
- Barlavento (the northern parts) - Santo Antao, Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau, Sal, Santa Luzia, and Boa Vista.
- Sotavento (the southern parts) – Maio, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava
Although close to the Sahara desert, it has a beautiful weather all year round. The south experiences more rain and is warmer while the north is drier and cooler.
The largest island is Santiago, and this is where the capital city, Praia is located. The country houses a population of a little over 500,000 who are majorly Christians. The official language is Portuguese, however, locals speak a mix of Cape Verdean Creole.
The Cape Verdean culture is a mix of Europe and Africa with unique elements. A dance and music genre called morna is unique to Cape Verdeans. There are a range of activities one can engage in to enjoy the Cape Verde experience:
- You can hike the Fogo mountain
- Engage in water sports
- Bike on sand dunes
- Attend festivals such as Sao Vicente carnival, Sao Vicente Baia Gates festival, Gamboa music festival in Santiago.
Situated close to the sea, their diet is largely based on seafood, cachupa a popular delicacy is a stew made of the staple, corn, beans, and fish.
Casual and light clothing and a jacket for cool evenings is recommended. Cape Verdeans are polite and friendly. Getting around in the country should not be a hassle. Ferry services exist for inter-island travel; yachts are also available. Taxis and buses are also easy ways of commute. There’s plenty to see in Cape Verde, some of the places of interest are:
- Santa Maria Beach, a white sand beach located on Sal island
- Monte Gordo National Park
- Pedra de Lume, salt mines in Sal island where you can float on water
- Pico de Fogo, an active volcano on Fogo
There are many fantastic places to stay in Cape Verde to enjoy the scenic beauty of this country.