Official Import Rules
Cape Verde requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and an import permit from DGASP. Microchip recommended.
Documents should be in Portuguese. Arrival through Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal or Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) on Santiago.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip recommended
Rabies vaccination
Apply for import permit from DGASP
Health certificate within 10 days (in Portuguese)
Government endorsement
Arrive at Sal (SID) or Santiago (RAI)
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Praia (Santiago) is the capital. Mindelo (São Vicente) is the cultural capital. Sal and Boa Vista are the tourist islands. Very limited pet infrastructure across all islands. Inter-island travel is by small plane or ferry.
Vets & Common Parasites
Very limited vet care across all islands. Praia has the best options with a few basic clinics. On smaller islands, vet care may be unavailable. Bring medications. For serious issues, Lisbon is the referral destination.
Find Vets in Cape VerdeExit Rules — Leaving Cape Verde
Exit requires a health certificate from an approved vet. Documents in Portuguese. Processing takes 2–3 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) is Lusophone. Portuguese is the official language.
Yes, but inter-island flights (Binter Canarias/TACV) and ferries have their own pet policies. Check in advance.
Very limited or nonexistent. Praia has the best options. Plan accordingly if living on a smaller island.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Cape Verde with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.