Employment Residence Visa (Visto de Residência - Trabalho por Conta de Outrem)
Cape VerdeCape Verde•Africa
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Employment Residence Visa (Visto de Residência - Trabalho por Conta de Outrem)

Work PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

EUR €50

Stay Duration

Varies (Extendable until final decision on residence permit application is made)

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Residence authorization for foreigners with a local employment contract; employer must demonstrate a local skills shortage; renewable after 1 year then every 2 years.

The Employment Residence Visa (Visto de Residência – Trabalho por Conta de Outrem) is designed for foreign nationals who have secured a formal job offer or an employment contract within Cape Verde. This visa serves as the primary legal pathway for professionals seeking to relocate to the archipelago to contribute to the local economy through subordinate labor. It is intended for individuals who have been hired by a local company or organization and need to establish legal residency to fulfill their professional duties. The process requires the employer to play an active role in the documentation and sponsorship of the applicant, ensuring that the employment is legitimate and compliant with national labor laws.

Applicants must demonstrate their professional intent by providing a valid contract or a promise of employment. Beyond the professional aspect, the applicant must prove they have the financial means to support themselves and have secured appropriate housing. The visa process is rigorous, requiring comprehensive background checks, including criminal records from the applicant's home country and health certifications. Once granted, this visa allows the holder to reside in Cape Verde for an initial period, which can be extended or converted into a more permanent residence status as the individual integrates into the local workforce and society.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a valid employment contract or a promise of an employment contract with a local entity in Cape Verde

Valid travel document (passport) with a validity period exceeding the intended stay

Proof of adequate and sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of stay

Proof of suitable accommodation in Cape Verde

Clean criminal record from the country of origin or habitual residence (for at least 6 months), with no convictions for crimes punishable by more than one year of imprisonment

Medical certificate or equivalent health documentation

International vaccination certificate

Legal entry into Cape Verde territory

KEY CRITERIA

Education

bachelor or higher

Experience

1+ years

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Passport photos

Completed residence visa application

Proof of accommodation

Travel insurance

Criminal record certificate

Proof of funds

Medical certificate

Application Process

1

Determine residence basis

Identify purpose: family reunification, employment, investment, or education

2

Prepare residence documents

Gather marriage certificate, employment contract, investment documents, or education enrollment

3

Complete residence visa application

Fill out Type D residence visa application form

4

Submit to consulate

Apply at Cape Verde embassy or consulate

5

Pay visa fee

Pay 50 EUR visa application fee

6

Receive residence visa

Obtain 6-month residence visa

7

Register residence

Register address at DIRE (immigration office) within 30 days of arrival

8

Apply for residence permit

Submit residence permit application at DIRE for permanent status

Application Forms

Type D Residence Visa Application Form—

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