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Cape Verde Grants Visa-Free Entry to Nigeria, 18 Other African Countries in 2026

 

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.