Question 1

Do visa-exempt travelers still need to pre-register?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All foreign citizens including visa-exempt and diplomatic/service/official passport holders must pre-register, except Cabo Verdean nationals and foreign residents.

Question 2

What if I did not pre-register before arrival?

Accepted Answer

Under Law 19/IX/2018 art. 11, you register on arrival at PARES and pay the TSA and where applicable the tourist visa. A future surcharge is planned for border registration without pre-registration.

Question 3

How long can I stay visa-free?

Accepted Answer

It depends on nationality on the official list — commonly 30 days, with some countries 60, 90 or 180 days. Beyond that period you must obtain a visa at the nearest embassy or consulate.

Question 4

How long is the tourist visa valid?

Accepted Answer

It must be used within 60 days of granting and allows a 90-day stay, extendable for up to the same period.

Question 5

Can I work on a tourist visa?

Accepted Answer

No. It covers recreation and cruises only. Work or business activity requires a temporary or residence visa as applicable.

Question 6

How long can I stay in transit?

Accepted Answer

4 days, with one authorized extension.

Question 7

Do transit passengers pay TSA?

Accepted Answer

Passengers in transit at national airports are listed as exempt in defined cases. Confirm your situation on the Consular FAQ or with the carrier/border.

Question 8

Ordinary or multiple-entry — which applies?

Accepted Answer

Ordinary allows a stay of 180 days. Multiple-entry allows more than one entry with a total stay of 90 days for one year from issuance. Use must occur within 180 days of granting.

Question 9

Can this visa lead to residence?

Accepted Answer

No. It is a temporary stay. To establish habitual residence for work or investment you must obtain the corresponding residence visa.

Question 10

What proves a family visit?

Accepted Answer

A host invitation stating relationship, dates, address and contact, plus any host identity or residence evidence the issuing office requests.

Question 11

What proves medical travel?

Accepted Answer

A letter or plan from the treating facility stating the care type, facility, and dates.

Question 12

Where is the residence visa decided?

Accepted Answer

Applications can only be requested in Cabo Verde but may be instructed at embassies and consulates, which refer the file to DEF for decision.

South Africa → Cape Verde: do you need a visa?

Visa on arrival

Tourist Visa

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FAQ

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