Cape Verde Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
Great news! United States passport holders can enter Cape Verde without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days within any 180-day period.
US citizens can visit Cape Verde visa-free for up to 30 days. All travelers must pre-register on the EASE platform (ease.gov.cv) before travel and pay the Airport Security Tax (approximately 3,400 CVE).
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your planned departure date (varies by country)
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from the country, such as a return flight or onward travel booking
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or address where you will be staying
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Credit cards, bank statements, or cash to cover expenses during your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended for all international travel covering medical emergencies
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Cape Verde is one of Africa's safest countries with a stable democracy. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas - take normal precautions. Some islands are more developed than others for tourism. Mountain hiking should be done with guides on islands like Santo Antão. Strong currents exist on some beaches.
Money & Costs
Currency
$ Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 · Mid: $100 · Luxury: $250+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% in restaurants is generous. Small tips for hotel staff and guides are welcome.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
132 (Police), 131 (Fire), 130 (Ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Sal (SID) · Boa Vista (BVC) · Praia (RAI)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cape Verde is from November to June during the dry season. January to March has perfect weather for beach activities and water sports. July to October is hotter with occasional rain and the Harmattan wind can bring dust from the Sahara. Water temperatures are pleasant year-round (22-26°C), making it always good for swimming.
Cultural Notes
Cape Verde has a unique Creole culture blending African and Portuguese influences. Music is central to identity - morna (soulful ballads), coladeira (upbeat rhythms), and funaná are popular genres. Cesária Évora, the "barefoot diva," brought Cape Verdean music to world fame. Hospitality (morabeza) is highly valued. The diaspora connection is strong, with more Cape Verdeans abroad than at home.
Insider Tips
Portuguese is the official language, but Cape Verdean Creole is widely spoken. The Cape Verdean Escudo is the currency, fixed to the euro. Credit cards are accepted in tourist areas but cash is needed elsewhere. Island hopping is done by domestic flights (TACV) or ferry. Each island has its own character - try to visit multiple islands.