Acquisition of nationality by own option

The following can choose the nationality of Cabo Verde origin, by declaration:

• The individual born abroad of father or mother, grandfather and grandmother of Cabo Verdean nationality by birth;
• The individual born in Cabo Verde of foreign parents if they have been habitually residing in Cabo Verde for at least five years and none of them is at the service of their State.

Required documents

• Applicant's birth certificate;
• Identification document;
• Birth certificate of the Cabo Verdean by birth parent or birth certificate of the Cabo Verdean by birth grandparent.

Acquisition of nationality by naturalization

Cabo Verdean citizenship can be granted by naturalization abroad that fulfills all the following requirements:

• Have lived in Cabo Verdean territory for at least five years;
• Be considered of full age or emancipated by the laws of the State of Cabo Verde;
• Have moral or civil suitability;
• Have the capacity to govern oneself and ensure one’s livelihood.

Required documents:

• The request addressed to the Minister of Justice, stating the reasons for the request signed by the interested party or the petition, with face-to-face authentication of the signature;
• Applicant's birth certificate;
• Certificate of a criminal record of Cabo Verde and country of origin;
• Photocopy of Residence Card;
• Certificate of residence issued by the Border Services and of at least 5 years;
• Military certificate (male);
• A document that proves that you have means to guarantee your subsistence as Declaration of expiration or Company, Declaration of NIF and INPS, bank account statement.

Acquisition of nationality by marriage

The spouse of a national who declares in the marriage his/her wish to do so can acquire Cabo Verdean nationality. The declaration of nullity or annulment of the marriage does not prejudice the acquisition of nationality by the spouse who contracted it in good faith.

Required documents

• Marriage certificate;
• Applicant's birth certificate;
• Certificate of Criminal Record accompanied by translation (if necessary) from Cabo Verde, country of birth and country of residence;
• Photocopy of passport.