Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) is a stunning archipelago along the West Coast of Africa, renowned for being peaceful, democratic, and having a relaxed way of living and beautiful beaches. As it has improved infrastructure and business opportunities, more and more Nigerians are eager to migrate there. Although not visa-free to Nigerians, it’s simple and worthwhile for a safe life and investment.
1. Visa Requirements for Nigerians
Cape Verde does not offer visa-free entry to Nigerians, but Nigerians can get a visa on arrival or pre-register online.
Short Stay (Tourist) Visa:
- Validity of up to 30–90 days
- Renewable at the Cape Verde immigration office
Visa on Arrival Requirements:
- Current Nigerian passport (6+ months validity)
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Alternative: Pre-register online on Cape Verde’s EASE platform (https://ease.gov.cv) for faster processing at the airport.
2. Long-Term Visas and Residence Permits
To move, you must apply for one of the following residence visas upon arrival on a tourist visa:
Common Visa Types:
- Work Visa (for employment)
- Business Visa (for investors/businessmen)
- Student Visa (for study)
- Residence Visa for Retirees or Family Reunification
Documents Required:
- Valid Nigerian passport
- Completed visa application form
- Passport photographs
- Evidence of accommodation
- Employment contract or evidence of business registration
- Evidence of income/cash
- Police clearance certificate (Nigeria)
- Medical certificate
- Yellow card
- Visa application fee
Submit these to Cape Verde Immigration and Borders Service (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).
Processing Time: 2–6 weeks
Validity: Usually 1–2 years, renewable
3. Nigerians Work Permit
To legally work:
- Acquire job offer before arriving
- Employer must submit application for work permit
- You may be required to prove skills cannot be locally sourced
- Once work permit is approved, apply for residence visa
- Fields foreigners are permitted to enter are:
- Tourism and hospitality
- Construction and infrastructure
- Education (especially English teachers)
- Renewable energy and trade
4. Business Ventures for Nigerians
Foreign investment is welcome in Cape Verde by:
- Eco-tourism and resorts
- Fisheries and seafood processing
- Agriculture and aggrotech
- Import-export firms
You will have to:
- Register business with Casa do Cidadão (One-Stop Citizen House)
- Obtain tax ID (NIF)
- Acquire residence permit for self-employment
5. Housing and Cost of Living
Major cities to stay in:
- Praia (capital)
- Mindelo (cultural center)
- Santa Maria (tourist center)
- Rental charges (per month)
- 1-bedroom apartment: ₦250,000 – ₦600,000
- Utilities: ₦40,000 – ₦70,000
Groceries and public transport are affordable, but imports are costly.
6. Healthcare and Education
- Public health is improving, but quality is better at private clinics.
- Private health insurance is highly recommended for extended stays.
- Portuguese prevails in education. Praia has some international schools.
7. Banking and Finance
- Currency: Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
- Open a bank account as soon as your residence permit is issued.
- International banking facilities are not readily available, make sure carry international debit/credit cards.
- Money transfer offices like Western Union are common.
8. Language and Integration
- Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu) is the widely used language.
- Official Language: Portuguese
- English speaking is not common, so rudimentary Portuguese needs to be acquired in order to integrate easily.
- Cultural Tip: Cape Verdeans are affectionate and respect and formality are valued most. The culture is easy-going and communal.
9. Safety and Legal Considerations
- Cape Verde is a secure country in Africa.
- Petty crime can happen in tourist spots, stay safe.
- Register with the Nigerian Embassy in Dakar, Senegal, which is in charge of Cape Verde.
Migration to Cape Verde as a Nigerian is a strategic move for those seeking serene island life, investment, or jobs in tourism and services. Although a visa is required, this is an achievable process, and the reward is a safe and welcoming environment.
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