United States Visa RequirementsFor Cape Verde passport holders
Cape Verdean citizens require a US visa to visit the United States. The non-immigrant visa (B-1/B-2) costs $185 and requires an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Praia, Cape Verde. Cape Verde has a significant diaspora in New England, making family visits a common purpose of travel.
Cape Verde passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply at the US Embassy in Praia. Steps: 1) Complete Form DS-160 online at ceac.state.gov, 2) Pay the $185 MRV fee at an authorized bank or through the online payment system, 3) Schedule a visa interview appointment at the US Embassy Praia, 4) Attend the interview with your DS-160 confirmation, passport, fee receipt, photo, and documents: bank statements, employment letter, property ownership or lease, and ties to Cape Verde showing intent to return. Cape Verdeans with family in the US should include the US relative's documents and invitation letter. The Cape Verdean diaspora connection is well understood by consular officers.
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 United States: What You Need to Know
Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) maintains strong ties to the United States, particularly through the large Cape Verdean-American diaspora in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and other New England states. Cape Verdean citizens must apply for a non-immigrant visa (typically B-1/B-2 for tourism and family visits) at the US Embassy in Praia (Santiago Island). The US Embassy in Cape Verde is located in Praia and processes visa applications for Cape Verdean citizens.
How to Get There
Flights from Cape Verde to the US typically route through Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal — connecting to Boston, Newark, Miami) or via Casablanca (Royal Air Maroc) and Dakar. TACV Cabo Verde Airlines (now Cabo Verde Airlines) operates from Praia (SAL) to Lisbon with connections to Boston. Direct charter flights sometimes operate to Boston for the diaspora community.
Money & Banking
The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). ATMs and credit cards are universally available. Cape Verdeans visiting family typically stay with relatives, keeping costs low. For independent travelers, budget $100–200+/day for mid-range accommodation and food in major US cities.
Practical Tips
Cape Verdeans visiting the US commonly head to New England , Boston (with its large Cape Verdean community in Brockton, New Bedford, and Providence). Major US cities, national parks, and Florida are also popular. Cape Verdean cultural events, restaurants, and community organizations are well established in southeastern Massachusetts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cape Verdean citizens need a visa for the United States?
Yes. Cape Verdean passport holders must apply for a US non-immigrant visa (B-1/B-2) at the US Embassy in Praia. The fee is $185 and an in-person interview is required.
Do Cape Verdean citizens need a visa for the United States?
Yes. Cape Verdean passport holders must obtain a B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visa to visit the United States for tourism or to visit family. The application is done at the US Embassy in Praia.
Where is the US Embassy in Cape Verde?
The US Embassy is located in Praia, on Santiago Island (the main island). It processes all non-immigrant visa applications for Cape Verdean citizens.
Is there a US Embassy in Cape Verde?
Yes. The United States maintains a full embassy in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. Cape Verdean citizens can apply for their US visa locally, including completing the DS-160 form and attending the required in-person interview.
What documents do Cape Verdeans need for a US visa?
DS-160 form, $185 fee receipt, valid passport, passport photo, bank statements, employment letter or proof of income, property/ties to Cape Verde, and any US family invitation letters with their immigration status documentation.
How much does a US visa cost for Cape Verdean citizens?
The US B-1/B-2 visitor visa requires payment of a non-refundable MRV fee of USD 185. This fee is paid before scheduling your interview and is not refunded regardless of the visa outcome.
Where do Cape Verdeans mainly go in the United States?
New England has the largest Cape Verdean diaspora , especially Brockton, New Bedford, and Providence. Boston is the primary gateway. Cape Verdean-American communities have been established in these cities for generations, with roots going back to the whaling industry era.
Why is the Cape Verdean community in the US relevant to my visa application?
Cape Verde has a very large diaspora in the US, particularly in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. If you are visiting family, provide their full US address, contact information, and proof of their legal status. A strong family connection, if properly documented, can support your application. However, you must still demonstrate non-immigrant intent and strong ties to Cape Verde.
Are Cape Verde flights to the US direct?
There are no regular direct flights from Cape Verde to the US. Common routes go via Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal, with connections to Boston and Newark) or via Dakar and other West African hubs. Charter flights to Boston sometimes operate for the diaspora community.