Cape Verde Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

For employers in Cape Verde seeking to hire international talent or relocate employees to the country, understanding the work permit and visa process is essential for ensuring a seamless and compliant recruitment experience. Navigating Cape Verde’s immigration laws can be complex, especially when sponsoring foreign workers. Whether you’re looking to bring in temporary staff, long-term employees, or highly skilled professionals, it’s important to be familiar with the various work visas, application requirements, and legal obligations. This guide offers key insights into the work permit process, helping you understand the steps involved, the necessary documentation, and how to ensure your foreign workers are properly authorized to work in Cape Verde.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Cape Verde

In Cape Verde, foreign nationals must obtain a work permit if they are planning to work in the country, with the exception of nationals from other member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). As an employer, it’s important to ensure that any foreign employee, whether short-term or long-term, has the necessary work permit before they begin their employment in Cape Verde. This requirement applies not only to those coming for full-time roles but also to workers in specialized fields or temporary positions.

Foreign workers from non-ECOWAS countries who are hired to fill roles that require specific skills or are in sectors with insufficient local labor must also apply for a work permit. Employers should verify the specific visa requirements based on the employee's qualifications and the type of job they will be doing. In some cases, the government may prioritize hiring local workers, so employers must be prepared to demonstrate why a foreign worker is needed for the position, especially in areas with available local talent.

Types of Work Visas in Cape Verde

In Cape Verde, foreign nationals must obtain a work permit unless they are from a member state of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). International employees must apply for the appropriate visa based on the nature and duration of their employment. Below are the most common work visa types:

Requirements For a Work Permit in Cape Verde

Employers must ensure that their international hires meet the specific criteria for the visa type being requested. The key requirements for obtaining a work permit in Cape Verde typically include:

• Valid Employment Offer: A formal job offer from a Cape Verdean employer.
• Proof of Qualifications: The foreign worker must submit evidence of educational and professional qualifications.
• Health Clearance: A medical certificate proving the worker is in good health.
• Clean Criminal Record: Evidence of a criminal history check from the worker’s home country.
• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where the worker will be staying in Cape Verde.

Cape Verde Work Permit Application Process

The process for obtaining a work permit in Cape Verde involves several steps. The general application procedure is as follows:

1. Step 1: Secure a Job Offer – The employee must first have a confirmed job offer from a Cape Verdean employer.
2. Step 2: Prepare Documentation – Gather necessary documents such as qualifications, proof of health, criminal record, and employment contract.
3. Step 3: Submit the Application – The application must be submitted to the Ministry of Labor in Cape Verde.
4. Step 4: Wait for Approval – The application will be reviewed, and a decision is usually made within a few weeks.
5. Step 5: Receive the Work Permit – Upon approval, the employee will receive the work permit and can begin employment.

Process for Visa Sponsorship In Cape Verde

As an employer in Cape Verde, sponsoring a work visa for an international employee involves a clear process to ensure compliance with the country’s immigration laws. Employers are responsible for initiating the visa application process on behalf of their foreign employees. This includes submitting required documents such as proof of the job offer, the employee's qualifications, and any other necessary supporting documents like health certificates or a clean criminal record. The Ministry of Labor is the main authority overseeing work permit applications, and employers must ensure that all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays or rejections.

In addition to submitting the application, employers may need to justify their decision to hire a foreign worker, particularly in cases where local workers are available. This can involve demonstrating that the role requires specialized skills or that recruitment efforts for local candidates were unsuccessful. The sponsorship process also includes paying the relevant application fees, which vary depending on the type of visa. Once the work visa is approved, the employee can legally enter and begin employment in Cape Verde. Employers must also ensure that they comply with local labor laws during the entire process, including fulfilling any reporting or renewal obligations for the employee's work permit.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Cape Verde

The fees for obtaining a work permit or visa in Cape Verde can vary depending on the type of visa. The table below provides the standard application fees:

Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Cape Verde

The processing time for work permits and visas in Cape Verde typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, although it may vary depending on the specific visa type and the completeness of the application. Employers should allow extra time for potential delays or additional documentation requests.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Cape Verde

Work permits in Cape Verde are generally valid for one year. Employees may renew their work permits annually as long as the employment relationship continues. Employers should ensure that the renewal application is submitted before the current permit expires to avoid any legal issues.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Cape Verde

Cape Verde is increasingly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads due to its favorable climate and growing tech scene. While there is no dedicated "digital nomad" visa, remote workers can apply for a temporary work visa if they meet the following conditions:

• Proof of Remote Employment: Evidence that the individual is employed remotely or is self-employed.
• Proof of Sufficient Income: Applicants must demonstrate they can financially support themselves during their stay in Cape Verde.
• Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance for the duration of the stay.
• Valid Passport: A valid passport and standard work visa application must be submitted.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Cape Verde

Hiring foreign workers in Cape Verde can present challenges for employers unfamiliar with local laws and regulations. Some common hurdles include:

• Complex Bureaucracy: The work permit and visa application process can be bureaucratic, requiring significant documentation. Missing or incomplete documents can delay approval.
• Local Labor Preferences: Cape Verde prioritizes local workers, so employers must justify their decision to hire foreign workers.
• Lengthy Processing Times: The approval process can take several weeks, requiring employers to plan in advance for international hires.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.