The Portuguese embassy in Cape Verde significantly increased its visa processing capacity, handling 62% more applications (both Schengen and national visas) in 2025 compared to 2023, according to the latest data from Lusa.
A source from the embassy highlighted the “huge increase in processing capacity,” thanks to additional staff, resources, and management reforms. This expansion is considered a success in combating the hoarding of appointment slots, a frequent complaint from applicants.
Portugal also manages the Common Visa Center (CCV) in the capital, Praia, which issues Schengen visas of up to 90 days for several European countries. In 2025, the issuance of these short-term visas grew 58.3% compared to the 11,600 visas granted in 2023, surpassing 18,000.
The increase reflects “mobility not related to emigration,” as Schengen visas do not permit residency, and rules have tightened, including the end of the “manifestation of interest” process for overstaying passports. Extensions of visa validity have been increasingly used for repeat applicants.
Read more: Cape Verdean police detain suspects for visa fraud and forgery for Portugal
The growth in Schengen travel coincides with expanded airline routes between Cape Verde’s islands, Portugal, and the rest of Europe.
Regarding work visas, the embassy issued 6,894 in 2025, a 9% increase from 6,319 in 2023. Most of these now depend on verified employment contracts, as opposed to previous large-scale job-seeking visas, which were largely phased out by 2025.
The embassy urges applicants to contact it directly for appointment issues instead of using third parties. Schengen visa appointments are free, while national visas for Portugal carry a fee of 4,400 Cape Verdean escudos (about €40) via VFS Global.
Since 2024, Cape Verdean authorities have detained individuals linked to scams and networks that monopolize visa appointment slots, charging different fees for bookings.
Read more: Remittances from Cape Verdean emigrants grow 3% in 2025 and reach record high
Migration issues continue to spark debate in Cape Verde. Marcos Rodrigues, president of the Sotavento Chamber of Commerce, highlighted concerns about labor shortages in some sectors, urging a balance between Portugal’s needs and local market pressures.
