Cape Verde Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australian passport holders can visit Cape Verde visa-free for up to 30 days, though most travellers arrive via connecting flights through Europe or Lisbon.
Great news! Australia passport holders can enter Cape Verde without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days.
No visa is required for Australian passport holders visiting Cape Verde for up to 30 days. Present a valid passport at the port of entry. Note that Cape Verde previously required a pre-registration and fee on arrival, but this has been abolished. Travellers are advised to check the current entry requirements before departure as policies have changed in recent years.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to Cape Verde: What You Need to Know
Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten islands off the west coast of Africa, offering a relaxed blend of African and Portuguese cultures. The country is considered one of Africa's most stable democracies with relatively low crime rates compared to mainland West Africa. Petty theft occurs in tourist areas, particularly on the island of Sal and Sao Vicente, but violent crime against tourists is uncommon.
Practical Tips
Most flights to Cape Verde transit through Lisbon or another European hub, so factor connection times into your planning. The most developed islands for tourism are Sal and Boa Vista. The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo, though euros are widely accepted. Tap water is not potable on most islands, so drink bottled or filtered water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa to visit Cape Verde?
No. Australian passport holders can enter Cape Verde without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. A valid passport is all that is required at the point of entry.
How do Australians get to Cape Verde?
There are no direct flights from Australia to Cape Verde. Most Australians travel via Lisbon, Portugal, or other European hubs. Journey times are long, typically 24 to 30 hours including layovers.
Which Cape Verde islands are best for tourists?
Sal and Boa Vista are the most popular for beach tourism and have the most developed tourist infrastructure. Santiago has the capital, Praia, and is the most culturally rich island. Sao Vicente is known for its music scene and the city of Mindelo.
Is the water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
Tap water is not safe to drink on most Cape Verdean islands. Stick to sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Most hotels and restaurants provide bottled water.