Immigration. Travel. Living.

Living in Cape Verde – expat life

Cape Verde is an island nation in the Atlantic Ocean located more than 500 kilometers off the coast of Western Africa. Those who relocate here can live a comfortable lifestyle among beautiful beaches and a warm environment. The capital, Praia, has some employment prospects as well as excellent housing options. Cape Verde boasts Portuguese and Creole as its predominant languages, with a small yet vibrant English-speaking community. Renowned for its exquisite beaches, delightful climate, and warm-hearted locals, this country has earned its place as a cherished expat haven. It attracts a growing global community of residents who live and work in this captivating archipelago.

An image of houses in Praia Cape Verde

Visas and work permits

For any foreign national aspiring to reside and work in Cape Verde, securing a visa is an imperative initial step. The spectrum of visa options varies depending on the purpose of your stay in this beautiful nation. It’s essential to note that a work permit is equally mandatory should your journey lead you to a professional venture in this nation.

Living expenses 

Compared to Europe or North America, Cape Verde has less expensive living expenses overall. However, costs can differ based on where you live and the lifestyle that you select. For instance, housing costs on the well-liked tourist islands of Sal and Boa Vista may be more than housing costs on less developed islands like Brava or Santo Anto.

Housing 

This nation offers an array of housing options, from humble apartments to luxurious villas, accommodating various tastes and preferences. Rental prices are as diverse as the properties themselves, contingent on factors like location, size, and quality.

Healthcare

Despite improvements, Cape Verde’s healthcare system still falls short of Western norms. Before moving to this country, it is crucial to acquire health insurance.

Education

Despite not always being of the finest caliber, Cape Verde’s public education system is free. A lot of private schools are also offered, albeit they might be pricey.

Language

The majority of Cape Verdeans speak Kriolu, a Creole language, in addition to Portuguese, the country’s official language. Before traveling to this country, it is advantageous but not necessary to learn some Portuguese or Kriolu. Many people also speak English, particularly in the touristy districts.

Income earning opportunities

There are numerous commercial and employment prospects because Cape Verde is still a developing nation. Nigerians, for example, hold a unique edge over Cape Verdeans pursuing careers in the tourism industry due to their proficiency in English. This advantage persists even though English isn’t our native language, a distinction amplified by Cape Verde’s status as a sought-after tourist hub. Portuguese or the local language, Kriolu, is spoken in Cape Verde. Additionally, there are countless business chances. Cape Verde lacks various amenities, including online shopping, delivery services, shisha lounges, clubs, tech stores, spice shops, and bowling alleys, to name a few. This nation provides an open door to investment; anyone with the financial means can engage in entrepreneurial endeavors. Armed with an international passport, NIF, and capital, commencing a business in this welcoming nation is a straightforward process.

The weather

All year long, Cape Verde enjoys pleasant weather. It basks in near-daily sunshine with temperatures comfortably resting between +25 and +30 degrees. Interestingly, the peak season coincides with the archipelago’s windiest winter months, ushering in a unique blend of climate and charm. However, when the scorching sun is shining brightest, the wind mostly serves as a cooling breeze. During the peak of the European holiday season, this country experiences scorching summers, and with no direct flights from the north, its beaches offer ample space. Autumn is the rainiest season, and on rainy days you may paddle through water as deep as your knees. Despite sporadic rainfall, they see only brief showers during the rainy season, making it entirely possible to enjoy moments of sunbathing during this period.

Local pay level

Almost without exception, foreign private business owners or larger chains own every company in this region. The pay scale is quite poor and does not even cover the locals’ living expenses, let alone other good things. Depending on the island and the work, the pay ranges from 150 to 300 euros per month.

You may also like

Reasons to immigrate to Cape Verde

Options of Becoming a Cape Verde Citizen

Moving to Cape Verde โ€“ Full Relocation Guide

Contact us

[CONTACT_FORM_TO_EMAIL id="1"]