Yes, a visa is required to travel from Cape Verde to Spain.
Do I need a visa for Spain from Cape Verde?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Schengen visa required — start the application well before departure
Cape Verdean passport holders need a short-stay Schengen visa (type C) for Spain: up to 90 days in any 180-day period, for tourism or family visits — a very common case given the close ties between Cape Verde and Spain. Once issued, the visa also lets you travel across the rest of the Schengen area.
Where and when to apply
Applications are filed with Spain's representation in Cape Verde (the embassy in Praia, or its authorised service provider where applicable), at the earliest 6 months and at the latest 15 days before departure. Book your appointment early: slots fill up fast before summer and the year-end holidays. Spain must be your main destination (the country where you spend the most nights).
Documents to prepare
Signed application form, passport issued less than 10 years ago and valid at least 3 months beyond your return date, recent photos, travel insurance covering at least €30,000 of medical costs across the whole Schengen area, flight and accommodation bookings, and proof of funds. If you are staying with a relative in Spain, the official 'carta de invitación' issued by the Spanish police replaces the hotel booking.
Fees and processing time
The visa fee is €90 (standard Schengen rate, reduced for children). The official processing time is 15 calendar days, extendable to 45 in busy periods — in practice, allow 15 to 45 days. Ideally apply 2 months before departure to absorb any delays.
Biometrics and your passport
For a first application, your fingerprints are collected (VIS system); they remain valid for 59 months and simplify later applications. Your passport usually stays with the consulate during processing: avoid planning other trips over that period.
Common mistakes
Non-compliant insurance (coverage below €30,000 or not valid across the whole Schengen area). Non-refundable tickets bought before the decision. A weak proof-of-funds file — the number one reason for Schengen refusals. And applying to Spain when your main stay is in another Schengen country: the application must target the country of your main stay.
Official sources
Information verified on July 21, 2026.
Essential Spain information
Spain is a Southern European country located on the Iberian Peninsula. It is the second-largest country in Western Europe and possesses a rich cultural, artistic, and architectural heritage. The country is currently experiencing record population growth due to immigration.
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- Fire brigade : 080
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Spain from Cape Verde?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 5 years).
How long can you stay in Spain?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 5 years.
What other visa types exist for Spain?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Spain offers among others: Self-Employment visa (Trabajo por Cuenta Propia), Employee visa (Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena), Highly Qualified Professional visa, Digital Nomad visa (International Teleworker, Ley 28/2022), Research visa (Investigación), Student visa (Visado de Estudios).
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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