Entering by boat: Cape Verde (Cabo Verde)
What to do to enter Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) by sea: the procedures, the papers to present and the ports where you can clear in.
Check with the authorities before you leave (last checked on 28 October 2026).
Before you arrive
The steps
- Before departure: check whether your nationality needs a visa (EU citizens are exempt for up to 30 days).
- On arrival: report to the port authorities with all crew passports and the original ship’s papers.
- Pay the port immigration fee (about €5 per boat, more at weekends).
- Before leaving: clear out with the same authorities to get the ship’s papers back.
Papers to have on board
- Passports for the whole crew
- Visas, if your nationality requires them
- Boat papers (registration certificate)
Good to know
- Since 1 January 2026, visa on arrival has ended for 96 nationalities, who must apply beforehand (list on ease.gov.cv). Check how this applies to arrivals by sea.
- The authorities may keep the original ship’s papers during your stay.
Ports of entry
The ports where you can clear in, and the services available there.
São Vicente
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This information is gathered from public sources and sailors’ experience. It does not replace the country’s authorities, whose word is final: check before you leave.