Travelling to Cape Verde requires careful preparation of your travel documents. The essential steps include travel administration formalities, and in particular entry conditions. Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, Cape Verde offers two options for entering its territory: EASE pre-registration and e-visa. Both procedures can be carried out on the same website. If your nationality is visa-exempt, all you need to do is complete the EASE procedure. On the other hand, if you are not visa-exempt, you will need to complete the EASE pre-registration and pay for the e-visa on the same form. This article explores in detail the differences between these two methods, their advantages, and the necessary procedures to follow for each type of document.
EASE: pre-registration to simplify your journey
EASE (Electronic Authorization for Simplified Entry) pre-registration allows travellers to simplify their entry into Cape Verde. It is a confirmation of payment of the airport tax, obtained before departure. This is not an e-visa, but payment of the TSA.. The airport security charge is actually due as compensation for the services provided to passengers arriving by air, and is intended to cover the costs of human and material resources to ensure border security and safety.
EASE application procedure
The procedure for obtaining the EASE is relatively simple and is done entirely online, no more than 5 days before your departure. Here are the key stages:
- Fill in an online form before leaving for Cape Verde.
- Provide personal details, including passport details, your outbound flight number, your accommodation in Cape Verde and a valid e-mail address for receiving documents.
- Pay the required fees with a credit card
- Receive instant confirmation by e-mail after approval, which can take up to 48 hours.
Advantages of EASE
The EASE form offers several advantages for travellers wishing to enter Cape Verde:
- The online procedure is quick and easy.
- There is no need to visit the embassy or consulate.
- Rapid receipt of authorisation by e-mail.
- Single entry, valid for one year from date of issue
- Depending on your nationality, the authorised length of stay may be between 30 and 90 days.
Special cases and exceptions
The EASE application is tailored to your nationality. For example, some travellers have to complete the EASE pre-registration form, but they will also have to pay an additional cost for the e-visa. Please consult our website.
The e-visa: prior authorisation for certain travellers
Unlike the EASE, the e-visa is a genuine visa application made online. This type of visa is specially designed for certain travellers who require more formal authorisation to enter Cape Verde.
e-visa application procedure
Applying for an e-visa follows the same process as the EASE procedure, since the same form can be accessed from the same website:
- Detailed application form completed online on the official platform.
- Provide personal details, including passport details, your outbound flight number, your accommodation in Cape Verde and a valid e-mail address for receiving documents.
- Online payment of visa fees and TSA tax, calculated according to your nationality and length of stay.
- Receipt of the finalised e-visa sent by e-mail, usually within 48 hours.
Comparison with EASE
Despite certain similarities in the online application, the e-visa differs from the EASE in several respects:
- Your nationality : Some travellers have to pay the TSA tax and the e-visa.
- Cost : The rate is higher because it takes into account payment of the TSA tax and e-visa fees.
The only similarity between the EASE and the e-visa is that the process can be carried out using the same online form and therefore on the same website.
Advantages and disadvantages of e-visa
The advantages and disadvantages of the e-visa compared with the EASE can be summarised as follows:
- Advantage: better suited to longer, recurring stays thanks to its flexibility.
- Disadvantages: higher price, some travellers have no choice but to pay for the e-visa because of their nationality.
When you can choose between EASE and e-visa
The decision whether to opt for an EASE or an e-visa often depends on factors relating to the planned stay, the nationality of the traveller and how often they visit Cape Verde.
Type of journey
For short tourist or business trips, the EASE is generally sufficient. Longer business trips or more complex stays may require a traditional visa, which should be applied for at a Cape Verdean embassy.
Nationality of traveller
Some nationals are required to use the e-visa under existing diplomatic agreements.
Frequency of visits
Frequent travellers will prefer the e-visa for its greater flexibility in terms of multiple entries.
Documents required for travel to Cape Verde
Whatever the choice between EASE and e-visa, a few basic documents are essential for any traveller wishing to enter Cape Verde:
- Passport valid for at least 2 months after the planned return date.
- Return flight ticket or proof of leaving the country.
- Proof of accommodation booking or letter of invitation.
It is advisable to check specific requirements with official sources before planning any trip to Cape Verde.
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