Portugal Visa RequirementsFor Cape Verde passport holders
Cape Verdean passport holders require a Schengen visa to visit Portugal. Despite the deep historical, cultural, and diaspora ties between the two countries, Portugal is a Schengen member and Cape Verdean citizens must obtain a visa. The Portuguese Embassy in Praia is the primary application point.
Cape Verde passport holders require a visa to enter Portugal.
Apply at the Portuguese Embassy in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. This is the primary and most convenient Schengen application point. Book an appointment online through the embassy website. Required documents: completed Schengen application form, two photos, travel insurance of EUR 30,000, round-trip flight reservation, proof of accommodation or invitation letter from host in Portugal, and bank statements for the past 3 months. Fee: EUR 80. Processing: 15 business days. For family visits, include a declaração de patrocínio.
Portugal is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Cape Verde to Portugal: What You Need to Know
Portugal and Cape Verde share a centuries-long historical relationship as former colonizer and colony, a common language (Portuguese), and significant diaspora connections. Cape Verde's largest diaspora community abroad is in Portugal, with an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 Cape Verdeans living in the Lisbon and Setúbal regions.
Despite these close ties, Portugal's Schengen membership means Cape Verdean citizens must obtain a visa. The Portuguese Embassy in Praia is the most natural and accessible application point, and consular staff are experienced with Cape Verdean applicants. Many Cape Verdeans apply to visit family, pursue education, or seek employment, and documentation of these ties is important.
For Cape Verdeans visiting family in Portugal, a formal invitation (declaração de patrocínio) from the Portuguese-resident host is a key supporting document. Portugal remains the most common European visa destination for Cape Verdean passport holders.
Practical Tips
Given the large Cape Verdean community in Portugal, demonstrating family ties with an official invitation from a Portuguese-resident host strengthens your application significantly. Apply early as the Portuguese Embassy in Praia handles high volumes of Schengen applications from Cape Verdean citizens. A prior visa history with Portugal improves chances of receiving a multiple-entry visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cape Verdean citizens need a visa to visit Portugal?
Yes. Despite the strong historical and linguistic ties, Portugal is a Schengen member and Cape Verdean passport holders must obtain a Schengen Type C visa before visiting. The Portuguese Embassy in Praia handles applications directly.
Where do Cape Verdean citizens apply for a Portuguese Schengen visa?
Apply at the Portuguese Embassy in Praia (Santiago island). This is the most accessible and appropriate Schengen application point for Cape Verdean travelers, given the direct historical relationship between the two countries.
What is the Portuguese Schengen visa fee?
The standard Schengen visa fee is EUR 80, approximately USD 87. This is paid at the Portuguese Embassy in Praia.
What is a declaracao de patrocinio and do I need one?
A declaração de patrocínio is a formal invitation letter issued by a person legally residing in Portugal, declaring they will host and financially support you during your visit. If you are visiting family or friends in Portugal, this document significantly strengthens your Schengen visa application.