Cape Verde Travel & Relocation Guide

Atlantic Islands of Music, Wind & Endless Sun

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What is the main income tax called in Cape Verde?

The IUR — Imposto Único sobre o Rendimento (Single Income Tax) — covers both individuals and companies, administered by the DNRE.

What is the VAT rate?

The standard IVA (VAT) rate is 15%, with reduced rates for tourism services such as hotel accommodation.

Am I taxed on income earned outside Cape Verde?

If you are a tax resident, yes — residents are taxed on worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Cape Verde–source income. Treaties may relieve double taxation.

Do I need a tax number even as a non-working resident?

Yes. The NIF is needed for banking, property, contracts and most official acts, regardless of whether you are employed.

Are there tax incentives for investors?

Yes. The Investment Code and the International Business Centre (CIN) regime offer reduced rates and exemptions for qualifying tourism and export-oriented investments.

Do I need private health insurance to live in Cape Verde?

It is not always legally mandatory but is strongly recommended. International cover with medical evacuation is important because complex care often requires transfer to Portugal.

Where are the main hospitals?

The two central hospitals are Hospital Dr. Agostinho Neto in Praia and Hospital Dr. Baptista de Sousa in Mindelo. Other islands have regional hospitals or health centres.

Can I get specialist treatment on the smaller islands?

Generally no. Smaller islands have health posts and centres for routine care; serious or specialist cases are transferred to Praia, Mindelo or abroad.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Water is produced by desalination and is treated, but many residents and visitors prefer bottled or filtered water. Water is a scarce, relatively expensive resource on the islands.

Can I use euros in Cape Verde?

Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas thanks to the fixed peg (1 EUR = 110.27 CVE), but the local escudo is the everyday currency and you'll need it outside resorts. You cannot freely take escudos out of the country.

What language do I need?

Portuguese is official and useful for admin; Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu) is spoken daily. English and French are understood in tourist zones on Sal and Boa Vista.

Is the internet good enough for remote work?

Yes in the main hubs — Praia, Mindelo, Sal and Boa Vista have solid 4G and fixed broadband. It is patchier on smaller islands, so base yourself in a main centre if you work online.

Which island should I live on?

Praia (Santiago) for work and services, Mindelo (São Vicente) for culture, Sal and Boa Vista for beach/resort life and windsports, and Santo Antão or Fogo for green scenery and hiking at lower cost.

Is Cape Verde safe?

Yes — it's among Africa's safest and most stable democracies. Take normal precautions against petty theft in busy urban and nightlife areas.

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