Digital Nomad Guide to Cape Verde: Everything You Need to Know

Why Cabo Verde is Perfect for Digital Nomads

• Natural Beauty: From the golden sands of Sal to the lush green valleys of Santo Antão, Cabo Verde is a paradise for nature lovers and explorers alike.

• Affordable Living: Compared to many European hotspots, Cabo Verde provides a lower cost of living—without compromising on comfort.

• Friendly Locals: The warm, welcoming culture ensures you’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

• Growing Nomad Community: More remote workers and entrepreneurs are choosing Cabo Verde, creating a supportive and inspiring network.

• Reliable Internet: While it might not be the fastest globally, urban areas and tourist hubs typically offer stable connections for all your remote work needs.

Cost of Living

Cabo Verde is budget-friendly, though costs vary by island. Here’s a quick overview:

Accommodation

• Monthly Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment): €300–€600

• Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb): €20–€50 per night, depending on the island and season

Food

• Meal at a Local Restaurant: €5–€10

• Weekly Groceries: €30–€50

Transportation

• Taxi Ride: €5–€10

• Inter-Island Flights: €50–€100 one-way

• Public Transport: Buses or shared taxis (Alugueres) are your best bet at around €1–€5

• Scooter Rentals: Approximately €25 per day

Internet and Connectivity

While Cabo Verde may not boast lightning-fast speeds, you’ll find reliable internet in most urban areas and tourist hubs:

• Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, coworking spaces, and cafés

• SIM Cards: Local providers like CV Movel or Unitel offer affordable data plans (roughly €10 for 5GB)

• eSIM: The quickest way to get online is using an eSIM service. I personally recommend Airalo—it’s reliable, simple, and stress-free (use the code VALENT2242 to get a discount).

Money Matters

• Currency: The official currency is the Escudo, but Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. When paying in Euros, expect change in Escudos.

• ATM Withdrawals: You can withdraw up to 20,000 CVE (around €180), though fees may vary by bank or card provider.

• Smart Banking: I recommend setting up an account with Wise for competitive exchange rates and hassle-free international payments. Another great option is Revolut, which minimizes currency conversion fees.

Insurance

Cabo Verde’s healthcare system is modest, with the best-equipped facilities in Praia (Santiago) and Mindelo (São Vicente). In case of a medical emergency, evacuation might be necessary.

Tip: Invest in travel or digital nomad insurance before you go. I always use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, which covers extended travel and global health needs.

Visa Requirements

• Short Stays (Less than 30 Days): Depending on your nationality, you may not need a visa. (More details here.) Note that at the airport, you’ll need to pay a security tax of 3,400 CVE (around €31).

• Longer Stays (More than 30 Days): A visa is required, costing €20 for a maximum stay of three months.

Cabo Verde offers Digital Nomad Visa, a fantastic option for remote workers who want to stay long-term.

Key Details:

• Eligibility: Proof of remote work and a minimum income of €1,500 per month

• Duration: Up to 6 months, with the option to renew

Cabo Verde isn’t just a destination—it’s a lifestyle. So, pack your laptop, embrace the island vibes, and get ready to redefine what work and adventure mean for you!

Safe travels and happy working!