The National Identification Card (CNI) is the electronic identification document adopted in Cabo Verde.
It allows you to prove your identity as a citizen and access digital services securely, including authentication and digital signature. The CNI is valid for 5 years.
Who can apply for the CNI
The CNI is mandatory for all Cape Verdean citizens from the age of 4. It can be requested by:
- Cape 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)
How much the National Identification Card costs
The cost of the CNI varies depending on where the request is made. The amounts for requests made in Cabo Verde differ from those applicable to requests made abroad.
| Type of request | National territory (CVE) | Diaspora (€) | Issuance period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 1,395 CVE | €14 | 15 business days |
| Urgent | 1,795 CVE | €20 | 5 business days |
Amounts in CVE for national territory and in € for the diaspora.
How to apply for the CNI online
You can request this service on the portal or in the GOV.CV app. During the process, you must provide your biometric data (photograph and signature) and schedule a video conference with a staff member to confirm 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 schedule a video conference so that staff can verify your identity.
- Click "Schedule video conference" to choose the day and time that suit you best. This step is mandatory to complete the request.
Track your request
Track the status of your National Identification Card request in the "My requests" area, available on the portal or in the GOV.CV app.