Who Needs a Work Permit in Cape Verde
In Cape Verde, foreign nationals must obtain a work permit if they are planning to work in the country, with the exception of nationals from other member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). As an employer, it’s important to ensure that any foreign employee, whether short-term or long-term, has the necessary work permit before they begin their employment in Cape Verde. This requirement applies not only to those coming for full-time roles but also to workers in specialized fields or temporary positions.
Foreign workers from non-ECOWAS countries who are hired to fill roles that require specific skills or are in sectors with insufficient local labor must also apply for a work permit. Employers should verify the specific visa requirements based on the employee's qualifications and the type of job they will be doing. In some cases, the government may prioritize hiring local workers, so employers must be prepared to demonstrate why a foreign worker is needed for the position, especially in areas with available local talent.
Types of Work Visas in Cape Verde
In Cape Verde, foreign nationals must obtain a work permit unless they are from a member state of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). International employees must apply for the appropriate visa based on the nature and duration of their employment. Below are the most common work visa types:
| Visa Type | Description |
| Temporary Work Visa | Issued for foreign workers who will be employed in Cape Verde for a short-term period, typically up to one year. |
| Long-Term Work Visa | Issued for foreign employees who are employed for a longer-term duration, usually exceeding one year. |
| Highly Skilled Worker Visa | For highly skilled professionals in sectors such as technology, medicine, or engineering. This visa is often associated with positions requiring specialized qualifications. |
| Intra-Company Transfer Visa | For employees of multinational companies who are transferred to Cape Verde as part of their work within the same organization. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Cape Verde
When hiring talent in Cape Verde, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Cape Verde. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (around 4 to 6 weeks on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Cape Verde.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Cape Verde
Independent professionals in Cape Verde can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Cape Verde.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Cape Verde
Transferring an existing team member to Cape Verde? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Cape Verde
Employers must ensure that their international hires meet the specific criteria for the visa type being requested. The key requirements for obtaining a work permit in Cape Verde typically include:
- Valid Employment Offer: A formal job offer from a Cape Verdean employer.
- Proof of Qualifications: The foreign worker must submit evidence of educational and professional qualifications.
- Health Clearance: A medical certificate proving the worker is in good health.
- Clean Criminal Record: Evidence of a criminal history check from the worker’s home country.
- Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where the worker will be staying in Cape Verde.
Cape Verde Work Permit Application Process
The process for obtaining a work permit in Cape Verde involves several steps. The general application procedure is as follows:
- Step 1: Secure a Job Offer – The employee must first have a confirmed job offer from a Cape Verdean employer.
- Step 2: Prepare Documentation – Gather necessary documents such as qualifications, proof of health, criminal record, and employment contract.
- Step 3: Submit the Application – The application must be submitted to the Ministry of Labor in Cape Verde.
- Step 4: Wait for Approval – The application will be reviewed, and a decision is usually made within a few weeks.
- Step 5: Receive the Work Permit – Upon approval, the employee will receive the work permit and can begin employment.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Cape Verde
As an employer in Cape Verde, sponsoring a work visa for an international employee involves a clear process to ensure compliance with the country’s immigration laws. Employers are responsible for initiating the visa application process on behalf of their foreign employees. This includes submitting required documents such as proof of the job offer, the employee's qualifications, and any other necessary supporting documents like health certificates or a clean criminal record. The Ministry of Labor is the main authority overseeing work permit applications, and employers must ensure that all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays or rejections.
In addition to submitting the application, employers may need to justify their decision to hire a foreign worker, particularly in cases where local workers are available. This can involve demonstrating that the role requires specialized skills or that recruitment efforts for local candidates were unsuccessful. The sponsorship process also includes paying the relevant application fees, which vary depending on the type of visa. Once the work visa is approved, the employee can legally enter and begin employment in Cape Verde. Employers must also ensure that they comply with local labor laws during the entire process, including fulfilling any reporting or renewal obligations for the employee's work permit.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Cape Verde
The fees for obtaining a work permit or visa in Cape Verde can vary depending on the type of visa. The table below provides the standard application fees:
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Temporary Work Visa | $150 |
| Long-Term Work Visa | $300 |
| Highly Skilled Worker Visa | $400 |
| Intra-Company Transfer Visa | $200 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Cape Verde
The processing time for work permits and visas in Cape Verde typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, although it may vary depending on the specific visa type and the completeness of the application. Employers should allow extra time for potential delays or additional documentation requests.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Cape Verde
Work permits in Cape Verde are generally valid for one year. Employees may renew their work permits annually as long as the employment relationship continues. Employers should ensure that the renewal application is submitted before the current permit expires to avoid any legal issues.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Cape Verde
Cape Verde is increasingly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads due to its favorable climate and growing tech scene. While there is no dedicated "digital nomad" visa, remote workers can apply for a temporary work visa if they meet the following conditions:
- Proof of Remote Employment: Evidence that the individual is employed remotely or is self-employed.
- Proof of Sufficient Income: Applicants must demonstrate they can financially support themselves during their stay in Cape Verde.
- Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance for the duration of the stay.
- Valid Passport: A valid passport and standard work visa application must be submitted.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Cape Verde
Hiring foreign workers in Cape Verde can present challenges for employers unfamiliar with local laws and regulations. Some common hurdles include:
- Complex Bureaucracy: The work permit and visa application process can be bureaucratic, requiring significant documentation. Missing or incomplete documents can delay approval.
- Local Labor Preferences: Cape Verde prioritizes local workers, so employers must justify their decision to hire foreign workers.
- Lengthy Processing Times: The approval process can take several weeks, requiring employers to plan in advance for international hires.
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