Ireland Visa RequirementsFor Cape Verde passport holders
Cape Verdean passport holders require a visa to visit Ireland. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a separate Irish visa is needed. Applications are submitted online through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS).
Cape Verde passport holders require a visa to enter Ireland.
Apply online at inis.gov.ie through the Irish Immigration Online Service. Create an account, complete the Short Stay (C) visa application, and submit required documents including passport scan, passport photos, bank statements, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and a cover letter explaining your visit. The fee is approximately EUR 60 (USD 65 to 75). After online submission, print the summary sheet and submit it with physical documents to the designated visa office. Processing: 8 to 12 weeks.
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
Cape Verde to Ireland: What You Need to Know
Ireland operates its own visa system outside the Schengen Area, meaning a Schengen visa does not grant entry to Ireland and vice versa. Cape Verdean citizens must obtain a separate Irish Short Stay (C) visa for tourism or visiting family.
Ireland does not maintain an embassy in Cape Verde, and applications are submitted online through the Irish Immigration Online Service. Processing typically takes 8 to 12 weeks, making early application essential.
Ireland has a Cape Verdean community, largely in Dublin and Limerick, connected through the broader Portuguese-speaking diaspora network. Visiting family or cultural connections can be documented to support the visa application.
Practical Tips
Apply well in advance, at least 12 weeks before your travel date, as processing times are significantly longer than Schengen visas. Write a clear and detailed cover letter explaining your purpose of visit, ties to Cape Verde, and ability to fund your trip. If visiting family in Ireland, include their proof of status and an invitation letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cape Verdean citizens need a separate visa for Ireland?
Yes. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa is not valid for Ireland. Cape Verdean passport holders must apply separately for an Irish Short Stay (C) visa through the INIS online system.
How do Cape Verdean citizens apply for an Irish visa?
Apply online at inis.gov.ie. Submit the online application, then send your physical documents to the designated Irish visa office. There is no Irish embassy in Cape Verde; the process is handled remotely.
How much does an Irish visa cost for Cape Verdean citizens?
The Irish Short Stay (C) visa costs approximately EUR 60, roughly USD 65 to 75. This is paid online at the time of application.
How long does Irish visa processing take for Cape Verdean applicants?
Processing typically takes 8 to 12 weeks. Apply at least 3 months before your intended travel date to ensure sufficient processing time.