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Cape Verde real estate insights, guides, and market analysis. Property buying, islands, legal requirements, and investment tips.

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Cape Verde Real Estate Insights

Guides, market analysis, and practical advice for property buyers and investors.

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Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners buy property in Cape Verde?
Yes. Cape Verde allows foreign nationals to purchase freehold property with the same rights as citizens. There are no restrictions on nationality and no requirement for residency, a local sponsor, or a holding company.
Do I need a Cape Verdean tax number to buy?
Yes — every person whose name will appear on the deed needs a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal). It's a free, nine-digit ID issued at a Casa do Cidadão or the Cartório. Allow one to five days, or use a fiscal representative if applying from abroad.
Do I need a local bank account?
Yes. You need a Cape Verdean account to pay the seller, property-related taxes and charges, and notary fees. Banco Comercial do Atlântico and Caixa Económica are the most commonly used. The escudo is pegged to the euro at a fixed 110.265 CVE per €1.
What taxes apply when buying property?
Since January 1, 2026, the old IUP framework has been replaced by ITI, the Property Transfer Tax, and IPI, the Property Ownership Tax. Current summaries generally describe ITI as 1% of taxable value, with 3% in privileged-tax-regime cases. Ask a qualified local lawyer to verify the Matriz, Registo Predial, taxable value, tax settlement status, and any surcharge exposure before completion.
How long does the buying process take?
Plan for 6 to 12 weeks from accepted offer to signed deed (escritura). The bottleneck is usually due diligence — verifying title, checking for outstanding debts, and confirming the property is free of liens. A reservation deposit of 5–10% holds the property while this happens.
Do I need a Cape Verdean lawyer?
Strongly recommended — and not the seller's. Hire an independent advogado to verify title, check debts, review contracts, and represent you at the notary. Typical fees are €500–1,500 depending on complexity. They can also act for you under a Power of Attorney if you can't travel.
Can I get a mortgage in Cape Verde?
Local mortgages are available to foreigners but are limited — usually 50–70% LTV, in escudos, at higher rates than the eurozone (typically 6–9%). Most non-resident buyers self-fund or use equity from a property at home, since the local mortgage market is small.
Does owning property give me residency?
Not automatically. Property ownership is independent of residency. Cape Verde does, however, offer a residence permit pathway for property owners and retirees who can demonstrate stable income. The two processes are separate — buying first does not entitle you to a permit.
Are there annual property taxes?
Yes. Since January 1, 2026, annual property ownership tax is IPI. Current summaries generally describe IPI as 0.1% for urban property and 0.15% for land. Surcharges may apply for vacant, ruined/degraded, or unfinished-facade properties, so confirm the position with a qualified local lawyer or municipality.
Can I rent out the property when I'm not there?
Yes. Both long-stay leases and short-term holiday rentals are legal. For tourist rentals (RJET licence), you'll register the property with the Ministry of Tourism and pay a tourism tax per guest, per night. Rental income is taxable in Cape Verde.
Which island is best for investment?
Sal and Boa Vista lead on tourist-rental yield (driven by direct European flights and resort demand). Santiago and São Vicente are stronger for long-stay residential demand. Santo Antão and Brava are quieter, scenic, and slower to liquidate. The right island depends on whether you want yield or lifestyle.
Can I repatriate the proceeds when I sell?
Yes. Cape Verde places no restrictions on the repatriation of sale proceeds for foreign owners. The buyer pays you in escudos through the notary process; you convert and transfer through your local bank account.