Cape Verde will abolish visas on arrival for citizens of 96 countries from January 1, 2026. Find out who the new rules apply to, what exceptions apply, and how to prepare for your trip

Cape Verde has announced significant changes to its visa policy. Starting January 1, 2026, the country will completely abolish visas on arrival for citizens of 96 countries. From now on, all travelers on this list must apply for a visa in advance, even if they are transiting through the archipelago’s airports.

If Cape Verde was on your travel plans, this update is worth considering now.

Cape Verde is an island paradise where the African soul meets Portuguese charm, and every corner hides unique beauty and new adventures. Read here how safe it is to travel to this country and what risks tourists should be aware of.

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What exactly has changed since 2026?

Until the end of 2025, most foreigners traveling to Cape Verde could:

- Complete online registration through the EASE platform;

- Pay the required fees;

- Obtain a tourist visa directly upon arrival.

This option is no longer available from 2026. Citizens of 96 countries must have a valid visa before traveling, regardless of the purpose of the visit or the length of stay. Entry or even transit without a visa may result in a refusal to board or cross the border.

EASE registration remains mandatory

Despite the abolition of visas on arrival, online registration through EASE remains mandatory for all visitors to Cape Verde, it includes:

- Submitting personal data online, as well as travel information;

- Payment of the Airport Security Fee (TSA) – approximately 3,400 escudos (approximately $20) for stays of up to 30 days.

Important! EASE no longer replaces a visa for citizens of the countries on the list.

Why did Cape Verde make this decision?

The changes are based on Decree No. 244/GMAI/2025, published in November 2025. The document defines the list of countries whose citizens are required to obtain an entry, transit or airport visa before traveling.

In fact, Cape Verde is strengthening border control, returning the main responsibility for checking travelers to embassies and consulates.

Citizens of which countries must obtain a visa to Cape Verde from January 1, 2026?

Citizens of the following countries must obtain a visa in advance:

Afghanistan, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia, Botswana, Brunei, Burundi, Bhutan, Vanuatu, Armenia, Venezuela, Vietnam, Gabon, Haiti, Guyana, Guatemala, Honduras, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Djibouti, Egypt, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, India, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Cameroon, Kyrgyzstan, Kiribati, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Costa Rica, Laos, Lesotho, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Madagascar, Malawi, Mexico, Mongolia, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Nicaragua, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, South Sudan, North Korea, Rwanda, Samoa, El Salvador, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Philippines, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, Sri Lanka, Ecuador, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Jamaica.

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For entry regulations for citizens of any country in the world, visit the Visit World portal.

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Who is exempt from the need to obtain a visa before traveling to Cape Verde?

Even if the nationality is included in the list of 96 countries, exceptions still exist. These apply to:

- Airline crew members during flights;

- Foreigners with a valid residence permit in Cape Verde;

- Holders of residence permits in EU countries that guarantee readmission;

- Diplomats and holders of official passports;

- Persons born in Cape Verde who have obtained another citizenship under certain conditions.

In any case, it is recommended to clarify the status at the Cape Verdean consulate before traveling.

What visa options are available to tourists in Cape Verde?

For most travelers, only a consular visa is available, which involves:

- Application through a Cape Verdean embassy or consulate;

- Proof of accommodation, return tickets and financial capacity;

- Waiting for a decision before booking non-refundable trips.

For those who love spontaneous travel, this means more careful planning.

Cape Verde remains open to tourists, but last-minute trips have become more difficult, and visa issues now need to be resolved first. Check the consulate opening hours, complete EASE registration in advance and prepare your documents before traveling to this African country.

With the abolition of visas on arrival in Cape Verde from 2026, travel requires more careful preparation, as any mistake with documents, flight delay or force majeure can lead to trip disruption and financial losses.

Travel insurance will help protect you in the most common situations during your trip:

- Coverage of medical expenses and emergency care abroad;

- Compensation in case of flight delay or cancellation;

- Insurance for expenses related to refusal of entry or forced return;

- 24/7 support in unforeseen situations while abroad.

It is especially important to have insurance when traveling to countries with strict visa requirements, where any change of plans can result in additional costs.

Apply for travel insurance online in a few minutes and travel to Cape Verde with confidence, even with the new entry rules.

Reminder! Mongolia has confirmed visa-free entry for citizens of 34 countries until 2027. We have already told you who can travel without a visa, the rules for crossing the border and what tourists can see.

Photo – Pixabay.com

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

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