Cape Verde VISA Extensions | africatourvisa

Cape Verde Visa Extensions Process

The process for extending your stay involves visiting the local immigration authorities. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to extend your Cape Verde visa:

In smaller towns or on other islands, you may need to go to the local police station, which can handle immigration matters.

1. Where to Go Extend Cape Verde Stay

The visa extension process is handled by the Direção de Emigração e Fronteiras (DEF), which is the national immigration and border police authority. You can find their offices in the main cities of the larger islands.

• Sal: The main DEF office is located in the city of Santa Maria.
• Boa Vista: The DEF office is in Sal Rei.
• Santiago: The office is in the capital city of Praia.
• São Vicente: The office is in Mindelo.

2. When to Apply Cape Verde Visa Extensions

It is crucial to start the visa extension process before your current visa or permitted 30-day stay expires. The official websites and local advice recommend starting the process at least a few days before your deadline to avoid any overstay penalties.

3. Cape Verde Visa Extensions Required Documents

To extend your visa, you will typically need to present the following documents:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the requested extension period.
• Current Visa/Entry Stamp: A copy of the passport page with your current visa or the entry stamp showing the date you arrived.
• Passport Photos: One or two recent passport-sized photos.
• Proof of Accommodation: A document proving where you are staying, such as a hotel reservation, a signed rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from a host.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence that you have enough money to support yourself for the duration of your extended stay. A recent bank statement or credit card statement can be used.
• Payment for the Fee: There is a fee for the visa extension. The cost can fluctuate, but historically has been around 2,100 CVE (about €19). This fee is often paid at a local bank, and you'll receive a stamped receipt to bring back to the DEF office.
• Application Form: You will need to fill out an application form at the DEF office.

4. The Process Itself

• Gather Your Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents and their copies.
• Visit the DEF Office: Go to the local Direção de Emigração e Fronteiras office. Be prepared for a potentially long wait, as this is a government office.
• Fill Out the Form: You will be given an application form to complete.
• Receive Payment Instructions: The immigration officer will review your documents and provide you with a payment slip to take to a local bank.
• Go to the Bank: Pay the required fee at the bank. The bank will stamp your receipt as proof of payment.
• Return to the DEF Office: Go back to the DEF office with your stamped payment receipt and the rest of your documents.
• Visa Extension: The officer will process your request and, if approved, will place a new stamp in your passport, which will state the new expiration date of your extended stay.

Cape Verde Visa Important Notes:

• Maximum Extension: The maximum extension for a tourist visa is typically for another 60 days, bringing your total possible stay to 90 days.
• Penalties for Overstay: Overstaying your visa can result in a fine, which can be around €100. It's always best to follow the correct procedure to avoid this.
• No Stress: Remember the "no stress" motto of Cape Verde. The process may take time and require patience. It's often advisable to bring a book or be prepared to wait.
• EASE and Extensions: The EASE pre-registration system is for the initial 30-day period. For any stay beyond that, you must go through the physical extension process at a DEF office.

Cape Verde Visa In summary: for most tourists from Europe, North America, and other visa-exempt countries, the validity of your stay is 30 days, with the option to extend. For all other nationalities, The process for extending your stay involves visiting the local immigration authorities. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to extend your Cape Verde visa: