By the end of this article, you’ll understand why Cabo Verde stands out as an investment destination, explore every approved route to citizenship, learn how to sail smoothly through the application process—and discover insights you won’t find elsewhere, from untapped local sectors to real-world impacts on the islands’ economy.

Why Cabo Verde Stands Out

Nestled off the coast of West Africa, Cabo Verde pairs political stability with open-door economic policies. Its passport offers broad mobility, while foreign direct investment has been climbing steadily in recent years.

Visa-Free Travel and Passport Strength

According to the Passport Index, the Cabo Verde passport holds the 81st position worldwide, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to 53 destinations—including all member states of the Schengen Area.

Strategic Gateway in West Africa

Data from the UNCTAD World Investment Report 2022 shows foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows of USD 118 million into Cabo Verde in 2021, marking a 7 percent increase compared to the previous year. The archipelago’s position between Europe, Africa and the Americas makes it ideal for logistics, tourism and niche exports.

How You Can Qualify: Investment Routes

Cabo Verde’s Citizenship by Investment programme allows applicants to choose among three tracks, each leading directly to full citizenship—no temporary residency required beforehand.

• National Development Fund
  Applicants can make a minimum contribution of EUR 200,000 to the National Development Fund with no further investment or job-creation obligations.

• Real Estate Acquisition
  Alternatively, individuals may purchase qualifying real estate starting at EUR 300,000, subject to a holding requirement of at least five years.

• Business Investment
  A third option involves a minimum capital injection of EUR 250,000 in a Cabo Verde business, with the stipulation of creating at least five local jobs.

Navigating the Application Process

Successful applicants follow a clear framework—from eligibility checks to the final oath.

Eligibility and Required Documents

Applicants must be over 18 with a clean criminal record. Primary documents include:
1. Certified copy of passport
2. Birth certificate
3. Police clearance
4. Proof of investment funds

For a full checklist of supporting documents, see Investopedia’s detailed guide to citizenship by investment.

Due Diligence and Common Pitfalls

Per CS Global Partners, incomplete application forms, missing apostilles or unverified sources of investment funds are the most common reasons for processing delays or rejections.

Timeline to Citizenship

According to Henley & Partners, the average processing window from application submission to oath-taking ranges between 6 and 12 months.

Deep Dive: Insights You Won’t Find Elsewhere

Program Evolution and Demand Trends

According to Global Citizen Solutions, the programme launched in 2019 and has seen steady interest since. Local agents report inquiries doubled after 2020, especially from Europe and North America.

Beyond Real Estate: Untapped Sectors

While real estate and cash funds dominate, Cabo Verde also seeks FDI in:
– Renewable energy (solar and wind)
– Fisheries and value-added processing—38 percent of exports
– Information technology and BPO services

Dual Citizenship, Family and Integration

Cabo Verde allows dual nationality under its National Law on Cape Verdean citizenship. Your spouse, children under 18 and dependent parents can join; there’s no language or residency requirement before or after approval.

Tax, Ongoing Requirements and Exit Options

Residents become tax-liable on Cabo Verde–sourced income only, with no wealth or inheritance tax applied. You must maintain your investment for a minimum of five years before divesting without affecting your status.

Real Estate Market Impact

Since the programme’s start, average property prices on Sal and Boa Vista have risen by about 15 percent in 2021, reflecting growing investor demand but also stoking local concerns about affordability.

Your Next Steps to Chart the Course

Cabo Verde’s investor visa is more than a ticket to Caribbean-style islands—it’s a bridge to new markets, a stable legal regime and an emerging hub for renewable and maritime industries. If you’re ready to explore the fund, property or business routes, assemble your documents, tap into local expertise—and set sail for a future under Cabo Verde’s flag.