Emigrating to Cape Verde

Emigrating to Cape Verde: A Reality Check

For many, the idea of emigrating to Cape Verde offers a tantalizing escape from the daily routine in Europe. The thought of living life at 28°C under palm trees, away from the neo-capitalistic hectic pace and noise, is indeed appealing. However, before making the leap, it's important to understand the reality check that comes with day-to-day life in this tropical paradise.

Emigrating to Cape Verde requires a clear understanding of both the perks and pitfalls. The default image of lounging at 28°C under palm trees needs to be balanced with the reality check of daily bureaucratic hurdles and administrative challenges. Becoming a resident of Cape Verde involves navigating a complex system that values patience and calmness.

Bureaucracy and Administrative Challenges

In Cape Verde the bureaucratic system is rigorous and officials see themselves as upholding a constitutional state, which means you'll need to follow proper procedures meticulously. The government's information policy is lacking, making it difficult to stay updated on frequently changing laws. This can lead to unexpected run-ins with the law, even for the most diligent residents.

The Residency Application Process

Becoming a resident of Cape Verde is not a straightforward task. The residency application process is fraught with delays and is best navigated with a lot of patience. Sometimes, maintaining good relationships with officials can expedite the process, but there are no guarantees.

How to Become a Resident in Cape Verde

Bcoming a resident in Cape Verde involves a detailed and time-consuming process  - be well-prepared

Obtaining residency in Cape Verde involves navigating a meticulous process with a specific set of requirements. This article aims to guide you through the process of becoming a resident in this tropical paradise.

Types of residencies "Residencia"

There are two main types of Residencia:

1. Permanent Autorizaçao de Residencia: This unrestricted residence permit was more common in the past. Since mid-2002, all new permanent permits must be extended every five years in Praia.

1. Temporary Autorizaçao de Residencia: This type of permit needs to be renewed annually. The document includes two blank pages entitled "Revalidaçoes" for renewal stamps.

Application Procedure

The procedure for securing a residence permit that extends beyond a visa period entails several steps. Here's a comprehensive guide to the application process and required documents.

Required Documents

1. Completed Application Form: This can be obtained from police stations.

1. Proof of Financial Stability: A bank statement from a Cape Verdean bank or the Boletim Oficial of your own company in Cape Verde suffices.

1. Certificate of Residence from City Hall: This document verifies that the applicant has lived in the respective municipality for at least six months.

1. Disclosure Certificate from Country of Origin: This certificate must be translated and notarized by the consulate. Note that individuals with a criminal record are rejected.

1. Disclosure Certificates from Cape Verde: Two certificates are required—one from the Public Order Police (POP) and one from the Judicial Police (Policia Judiciaria).

1. Health Certificate from Health Department: Vaccination records are required.

1. Rental Agreement or Proof of Property Ownership: The rental agreement must be certified by the tax office and notarized by a notary public or Registo Civil.

1. Copy of Complete Passport with Visa Stamp: The visa stamp must read "permanente," indicating more than six months of uninterrupted residence. Tourist visa stamps are not valid.

1. Two Current Passport Pictures: Recent photographs are necessary.

Processing Time

The official procedure for issuing a Residencia, including the processing of all submitted documents, can take up to two years. During this period, it's possible to incorporate your company, though operating it may be challenging due to high import and export taxes. A special import license, which depends on having a Residencia, is required to benefit from lower tax rates.

Extension Procedure of a residency:

To extend a Residencia:

1. Visit the Closest Police Station: Request the renewal of the residence authorization.

1. Obtain Necessary Documents: A list of required documents can be obtained at the police station.

1. File the Documents: Submit all documents at the police station, which will send them to Praia for official stamping.

1. Pay the Renewal Fee: This must be done at a bank, and a stamp must be obtained from the tax office or the Camara.

Patience and adherence to procedures are crucial. Cape Verdean officials pride themselves on following constitutional protocols, and any attempts to bypass the system through unofficial means like bribery are strictly counterproductive.