Cabo Verde residence 2026 — work, family & investment permits

Known for its Atlantic calm, volcanic islands and transparent governance, Cabo Verde has become a hub for remote workers, entrepreneurs and retirees. The archipelago offers several legal residence categories designed for stability and regulated migration. Foreigners may obtain residence through employment, family reunion or investment in local enterprises and real estate. Before starting the process, study the complementary Cabo Verde citizenship 2026 article to plan a long-term path to nationality.

Key terms

DIRE (Direcção de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras): national authority managing foreign residence and visa extensions.

Temporary residence permit: first-stage authorisation allowing foreigners to stay in Cabo Verde for work, study or family reasons beyond 90 days.

Permanent residence: status granted after five years of continuous legal stay with stable income and integration proof.

Work visa: authorisation linked to a local employment contract or self-employment registration.

Investment permit: residence route for investors in tourism, agriculture, renewable energy or real estate.

Entry visa D: long-term visa for family reunification or business setup, convertible into residence.

Tax Identification Number (NIF): mandatory code for employment, banking and property operations.

Residence types

• Employment permit: granted to foreign professionals with valid job contracts in sectors like hospitality, energy, education and healthcare. Employers must justify local-skills shortage. Initial validity — one year, renewable.
• Self-employment & business residence: for entrepreneurs or freelancers establishing local activity. Requires business plan, proof of investment and bank account. Often used by tech consultants and tourism startups.
• Family reunification: spouses, dependent children and parents of Cabo-Verdean citizens or residents can apply. Proof of relationship and adequate housing is required.
• Investment residence: available to foreigners investing ≥ €60 000 in real estate or productive projects. Includes a residence card for up to five years and the right to manage assets locally.
• Study visa: covers full-time study at recognised institutions. Applicants need admission confirmation and proof of funds.
• Retiree / financially independent residence: for individuals with stable pension or passive income abroad. Popular in São Vicente and Sal islands.
• Humanitarian and medical permits: exceptional stay for treatment or assistance programmes, renewable case-by-case.
• Permanent residence: obtainable after five years of continuous legal stay, clean criminal record and financial stability. Holders enjoy almost all rights of nationals except voting.

Routes & timelines

Step-by-step

1. Select the category — work, family, investment, or retirement — and confirm eligibility under national law 66/VIII/2014.
2. Collect passport, birth certificate, criminal record from home country and proof of income or employment.
3. Legalise and translate documents into Portuguese by certified translator.
4. Apply for visa D at a Cabo Verde Consulate or Embassy before arrival.
5. Upon entry, register address and apply for a residence card at DIRE within 30 days.
6. Attend interview and fingerprint collection.
7. Receive residence card and obtain NIF for local operations.
8. Renew before expiry to preserve continuity toward permanent residence.

Documents

Key requirements include passport (valid ≥ 6 months), two photos, police clearance, medical insurance, proof of accommodation, bank statements, employment or investment evidence, and marriage or birth certificates if applicable. To avoid delays from translation errors, order certified translation support (B) matching Portuguese format.

Costs

Visa fees range €60–€120, plus residence card issuance (~€150). Investment permits involve notarial and registration charges. For cross-country comparisons and fee benchmarks, visit the Residency & Citizenship section (C).

Renewals

Submit renewal 60 days before expiry via DIRE portal or local office. Provide updated proof of income, insurance and address. Late renewals may reset your eligibility for permanent status. Dependents must renew simultaneously to keep family files linked.

Integration

Cabo Verde’s society values community participation and tax transparency. Foreign residents are encouraged to contribute to local economies through employment or business activity. Language courses in Portuguese or Creole support integration and are recommended before renewal for permanent residence.

What changed in 2026

The government implemented a fully digital residence portal with QR-code cards and biometric updates. Processing for investment permits was shortened from six months to three and multi-entry extensions are now automatic for renewed holders.

Did you know?

Foreigners investing in solar energy projects in Cabo Verde can obtain residence permits with tax incentives and zero import duties on equipment.

Common mistakes

• Submitting documents without Portuguese translation or apostille.
• Applying for residence after visa expiry.
• Assuming short-term tourist stays can convert to residence inside the country.
• Failing to obtain a NIF before opening a bank account.
• Not registering dependents within the 30-day window.
• Missing renewal deadlines and losing continuity toward permanent residence.

FAQ

Expert opinion

Cabo Verde’s residence system is efficient for those who plan ahead and prepare complete files. The archipelago values foreign investment and social stability over bureaucracy. Applicants who show economic contribution and community integration find renewals almost automatic.

— Luís, Atlantic Residency Advisor, VelesClub Int.

Next steps

Thinking about life under the Atlantic sun? Get a free consultation with VelesClub Int. to structure your application and track renewals. Start on our main platform or visit the Residency & Citizenship section (D) to compare pathways and prepare for your move to Cabo Verde.