How can you acquire Cape Verdean citizenship?

Citizenship By City-of-birth

CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH

Those falling into one of the following categories acquire Cape Verdean citizenship by birth:

  • born to at least one Cape Verdean parent and having no other nationality;
  • born to displaced parents;
  • born stateless.
 
Citizenship By Descent

CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT

Minor children of a father or mother who has acquired Cape Verdean citizenship acquire citizenship as well.

Those born abroad to a Cape Verdean parent or with a Cape Verdean grandparent are eligible for Cape Verdean citizenship.

 
Citizenship By Naturalization

CITIZENSHIP BY NATURALIZATION

Those meeting the following requirements may apply for naturalization:

  • having resided in Cape Verdean territory for at least 5 years (may be waived for those making a sizeable investment);
  • considered of age or emancipated by the State laws of Cape Verde;
  • moral or civil fitness;
  • capacity to take care of and provide for themselves.
 
Citizenship By Marriage

CITIZENSHIP BY MARRIAGE

Those married to a Cape Verdean spouse may acquire citizenship by declaring to acquire it at the time of the marriage.

 
Citizenship By Adoption

CITIZENSHIP BY ADOPTION

Those adopted as a minor by a Cape Verdean citizen acquire citizenship through the adoption.