Retired Foreigner Residence Authorization

The Retired Foreigner Residence Authorization (Autorizacao de Residencia para Estrangeiro Reformado) is a permanent residence permit for retired foreign nationals who wish to settle in Cape Verde. Governed by Lei no 66/VIII/2014 and its amendments, with implementing regulations under Decreto-Lei no 2/2015, the program is administered by the Direcao de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (DEF) under the Alta Autoridade para a Imigracao (AAI). It offers a direct path to permanent residence without the standard five-year temporary residence requirement, targeting retirees with stable foreign pension or passive income.

Applicants must be at least 60 years of age with retired status and demonstrate stable pension or passive income of approximately EUR 1,200 per month from sources outside Cape Verde. The program is open to all nationalities. Holders are not authorized to engage in local employment — the authorization is strictly for retired individuals living on passive income.

Retired residents whose pension income was not generated in Cape Verde benefit from exemption under the Personal Income Tax Code (CIRPS). Exempt income is not aggregated with other taxable income. Otherwise, resident individuals are subject to personal income tax on worldwide income at progressive rates of 16.5% to 27.5%. Cape Verde has double taxation treaties with Portugal, Spain, and other countries.

The process begins with obtaining a residence visa (Visa D) from a Cape Verdean consulate or embassy. Upon arrival, the applicant must register with the DEF within 30 days and apply for the residence authorization, either through the e-Residencia digital portal or in person at DEF offices. Required documents include a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), pension statement, bank statements, criminal record certificate, declaration of commitment to respect Cape Verdean laws, declaration assuming responsibility for medical costs, proof of accommodation, and two passport photographs. All documents must be legalized and translated into Portuguese. Processing takes approximately 30 to 60 days for the visa, plus about 15 days for the residence title card.

Valid health insurance covering Cape Verde is mandatory. Alternatively, applicants may submit a declaration assuming responsibility for all medical and pharmaceutical costs.

The authorization grants permanent residence directly. After 5 years of habitual residence, holders may apply for Cape Verdean citizenship, subject to additional requirements including knowledge of Portuguese and integration criteria.

Residents must notify the DEF within 8 days of any absence exceeding 90 days. Extended unauthorized absences may affect the validity of the residence authorization. All travellers must complete pre-registration via the EASE platform before travelling to or from Cape Verde.

Holders may apply for family reunification for spouses, minor children, and adopted minors. The sponsoring resident must demonstrate adequate housing and sufficient means of subsistence. Family members receive their own residence authorization tied to the sponsor's status.