Foreign nationals intending to work in Cabo Verde are generally required to obtain both a visa to enter the country and a specific work authorization to be legally employed. The process involves satisfying requirements set by the Directorate of Immigration and Borders (Direção Geral de Imigração) and potentially other relevant ministries, depending on the nature of the work. Securing the correct documentation is a crucial step for both the employer and the employee to ensure compliance with Cabo Verdean labor and immigration laws.
Navigating the immigration system requires careful attention to detail regarding application procedures, required documentation, and timelines. Employers sponsoring foreign workers play a significant role in the work authorization process, often needing to demonstrate the necessity of hiring a foreign national and fulfilling specific legal obligations.
Common Visa Types for Foreign Workers
While the specific visa required depends on the individual's nationality and the purpose and duration of their stay, foreign nationals planning to work in Cabo Verde typically need a long-stay visa that permits residence and subsequent application for a work permit.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Typical Duration | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-Stay Visa | Entry for residence and work permit application | Up to 120 days | Proof of means, purpose of stay, potentially pre-approval |
| Work Visa | Entry specifically for pre-approved work | Varies | Valid work contract and work permit approval |
It's important to note that obtaining a long-stay visa is often the first step, allowing the individual to enter Cabo Verde and then apply for the necessary work permit and residence permit while in the country. Some specific agreements or roles might allow for a direct work visa application from abroad if a work permit is already secured.
Work Permit Application Requirements and Procedures
The work permit (Autorização de Trabalho) is mandatory for any foreign national wishing to be legally employed in Cabo Verde. The application process is primarily employer-driven, as the sponsoring company must initiate and support the application.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The foreign national must have a valid visa allowing entry for residence/work purposes.
- The employer must be a legally registered entity in Cabo Verde.
- The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a qualified Cabo Verdean national (labor market test may apply).
- The foreign national must possess the necessary qualifications, skills, or experience for the role.
- A valid employment contract must be in place.
Required Documentation (may vary slightly based on individual circumstances):
- Application form
- Copy of passport (valid for at least the duration of the contract)
- Copy of entry visa
- Proof of legal entry into Cabo Verde
- Employment contract signed by both employer and employee
- Employer's registration documents (company registration certificate, tax ID)
- Proof of employer's financial capacity
- Employee's educational certificates and professional qualifications
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin and any country of previous residence
- Medical certificate
- Proof of payment of application fees
- Justification from the employer for hiring a foreign national
Procedure:
- The employer typically initiates the process by submitting the work permit application and supporting documents to the relevant government authority (e.g., Ministry of Labor or Directorate of Immigration).
- Authorities review the application, potentially conducting a labor market test to ensure no qualified local candidates are available.
- If approved, the work permit is issued.
- The foreign national then uses the work permit and their long-stay visa (if applicable) to apply for a residence permit (Título de Residência) from the Directorate of Immigration and Borders.
Processing Times and Fees:
Processing times for work permits can vary significantly, often ranging from 4 to 8 weeks or longer depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of the case. Government fees for the work permit application and subsequent residence permit application are subject to change but typically involve an application fee and an issuance fee. Specific fee amounts should be confirmed with the relevant authorities or through local legal counsel, but can range from approximately CVE 10,000 to CVE 30,000 or more for the initial applications.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Foreign nationals who have legally resided and worked in Cabo Verde for a continuous period may be eligible to apply for permanent residency (Autorização de Residência Permanente).
The general requirement is typically five years of continuous legal residence in Cabo Verde under temporary residence permits (obtained after securing a work permit). The applicant must demonstrate stable employment or sufficient financial means, good conduct, and integration into Cabo Verdean society. The application process involves submitting proof of continuous residence, financial stability, clean criminal record, and other supporting documents to the Directorate of Immigration and Borders.
Dependent Visa Options
Foreign workers holding valid work and residence permits in Cabo Verde can usually apply to bring their immediate family members (spouse and minor children) to reside with them.
The process involves applying for dependent residence permits for each family member. The main permit holder (the foreign worker) must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support their dependents and provide proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates). Dependents will typically need to apply for appropriate entry visas from their country of origin before traveling to Cabo Verde. The application for dependent residence permits is submitted to the Directorate of Immigration and Borders in Cabo Verde after the dependents have arrived legally.
Visa Compliance Obligations for Employers and Employees
Maintaining compliance with Cabo Verdean immigration and labor laws is essential for both the sponsoring employer and the foreign employee.
Employer Obligations:
- Ensure the foreign national has the correct visa, work permit, and residence permit before commencing employment.
- Comply with all terms of the employment contract and Cabo Verdean labor law (wages, working hours, social security contributions, etc.).
- Notify the relevant authorities of any changes to the employee's status (e.g., change in role, termination of employment).
- Maintain accurate records of the employee's immigration documents.
- Assist the employee with the renewal process for work and residence permits.
Employee Obligations:
- Hold valid immigration documents (visa, work permit, residence permit) at all times.
- Comply with the terms and conditions of their visa and work permit.
- Reside legally in Cabo Verde.
- Notify authorities of changes in personal circumstances (e.g., change of address).
- Adhere to Cabo Verdean laws and regulations.
- Initiate the renewal process for permits well in advance of their expiry date.
Failure to comply with these obligations can result in penalties, including fines for the employer, deportation of the employee, and potential bans on future entry or sponsorship.
