Portuguese
English
French
The National Identification Card (CNI) is Cabo Verde's electronic identification document.
It lets you prove your identity as a citizen and securely access digital services, including authentication and digital signatures. The CNI is valid for 5 years.
Who can apply for the CNI
The CNI is mandatory for all Cabo Verdean citizens aged 4 and older. It can be requested by:
- Cabo Verdean citizens in the country and in the diaspora
- Legal representatives (in the case of minors or incapacitated persons)
What you need to apply for the CNI
To apply for or renew the CNI, you need:
- Applicant's personal details
- CNI authorization for a minor
- Valid identification document (when applicable)
- Declaration of loss, theft or misplacement (when applicable)
Cost and processing time
The cost of the CNI varies depending on the request type, standard or urgent. The document must be collected in person at a service location in Cabo Verde.
| Type of request | National territory (CVE) | Diaspora (EUR) | Issuance period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 1,395 CVE | 14 EUR | 15 business days |
| Urgent | 1,795 CVE | 20 EUR | 5 business days |
Amounts in CVE for national territory and in EUR for the diaspora.
How to apply for the CNI online
You can request this service on the GOV.CV website or mobile app. During the process, you must provide your biometric data (photograph and signature) and verify your identity.
Click "Apply online" to start and follow these steps:
Choose the type of request
Normal or urgent
Choose the delivery type
Pickup at service offices or delivery by mail
Indicate who the request is for
For yourself – For another person
Collect biometric data
Take a photograph and record your signature in the GOV.CV app
Finalize the request
Check and, if necessary, change the details before finalizing the request
Make the payment
Pay simply and securely using digital means
- After making the payment, you must complete identity verification.
- Click "Awaiting identity verification" and follow the instructions on the screen. This step is mandatory to process your request.
Track your request
Track the status of your National Identification Card request in the "My requests" area, available on the GOV.CV website or mobile app.