Cape Verde Grants Visa-Free Entry to Nigeria, 18 Other African Countries in 2026
The government of Cape Verde has updated its 2026 visa exemption policy, confirming that citizens of 19 African countries, including Nigeria, can enter the island nation without obtaining a visa before travel.
The initiative is aimed at promoting regional integration, boosting tourism, strengthening trade relations and encouraging the free movement of people across the African continent.
Under the revised policy, eligible travellers can stay in Cape Verde for periods ranging from 30 to 180 days, depending on their country of citizenship. Nigerian passport holders are permitted to remain in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
The 19 African countries covered by the visa-free arrangement are:
Nigeria – 90 days
Benin – 90 days
Burkina Faso – 90 days
Gambia – 90 days
Ghana – 90 days
Guinea – 90 days
Côte d’Ivoire – 90 days
Liberia – 90 days
Mali – 90 days
Niger – 90 days
Senegal – 90 days
Sierra Leone – 90 days
Togo – 90 days
Angola – 180 days
Guinea-Bissau – 180 days
Mozambique – 180 days
São Tomé and Príncipe – 60 days
South Africa – 30 days
Morocco – 30 days
Although travellers from these countries do not require visas, they must complete mandatory pre-registration through Cape Verde’s Electronic Airport Security Tax (EASE) platform before departure. Where applicable, visitors are also required to pay the Airport Security Tax at least five days before arrival.
Authorities further stated that travellers must possess passports valid for at least six months from their date of entry. Anyone intending to remain in Cape Verde beyond the approved visa-free period must apply for a visa extension or obtain the appropriate visa before their authorised stay expires.
The updated policy is expected to strengthen tourism, improve business opportunities and deepen regional cooperation by making travel between Cape Verde and participating African countries easier.
