Cape Verde Airport Customs Rules 2026: Alcohol, Cash, and Vaping Limits

Arriving in Cape Verde means choosing the Green Channel (nothing to declare) or Red Channel (declare goods exceeding limits). At major international airports like Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID - Sal), Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI - Praia) and Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC - Boa Vista), customs officers enforce these rules strictly. Stay calm, but be prepared — ignorance isn’t accepted.

Red Channel vs. Green Channel

Upon landing at major hubs like Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) in Sal, Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in Praia, or Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) in Boa Vista, you must choose your lane:

• Green Channel (Nada a Declarar): Use this if your goods fall within the legal tax-free limits and you are not carrying prohibited items.

• Red Channel (Bens a Declarar): You must enter this lane if you have goods exceeding the allowances, commercial quantities, or restricted items like weapons or large amounts of cash.

Customs Limits & Allowances

Customs limits are applied strictly per person. You cannot "pool" allowances across a family or group.

Strict Warning: Travelers under 17 years of age have zero tobacco or alcohol allowance. Attempting to bring these through in a minor's luggage will result in immediate fines.

More details on official allowances and prohibited goods available from the Cabo Verde Customs website.

The "Big Ban" / The Trap

The most dangerous trap for travelers to Cape Verde involves Prescription Medication and Illegal Drugs. Cape Verde has a zero-tolerance policy for narcotics. Even common medications containing codeine or strong stimulants can be flagged. If you are carrying essential medication, you must have a physical copy of your prescription translated into Portuguese or English to avoid being detained under drug trafficking suspicions.

Banned & Restricted Items List

• Local Currency (CVE): It is strictly prohibited to import or export Cape Verdean Escudos.

• Narcotics: All illegal drugs, including cannabis/marijuana products.

• Weapons: Firearms, ammunition, and explosives are banned without a special Ministry of Internal Administration permit.

• Food Products: Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries are generally restricted to prevent disease.

• Endangered Species: Any products made from coral, turtle shells, or protected local flora.

For the official list, refer to the Direção Geral das Alfândegas (Cape Verde Customs).

Fines & Payment

Customs violations in Cape Verde are handled with Immediate Confiscation. If you fail to declare goods over the limit:

1. The item is seized.

2. A fine is calculated based on the market value of the item plus a penalty fee.

3. Failure to pay can result in the seizure of your passport or deportation.

Instant Internet at Arrival Customs

When you’re landing, slow internet can mean trouble: you might need to translate official forms, access bank apps for duty payments, check digital travel docs, or get help from your embassy. Reliable connectivity is essential.

Get your Cape Verde eSIM before departure so you’re connected right when you land — this matters especially if any customs or declaration forms require screenshots or translation. A local eSIM plan often beats airport Wi-Fi and avoids roaming sticker shock.

For options on mobile internet and comparison of providers in Cape Verde, check out Best eSIM for Cape Verde and How to Get Internet in Cape Verde: SIM Cards, eSIM & WiFi Guide — both cover choices including data plans, coverage and step-by-step setup.

Summary Checklist

• Register for EASE: Complete your mandatory registration and pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA) at least 5 days before arrival.

• Check your Meds: Ensure all prescriptions are in their original packaging with a doctor’s note.

• Count your Cash: If you have more than €10,000 (or equivalent in USD/GBP), head straight to the Red Channel.

• Secure Connectivity: Install your Roafly eSIM before take-off to access your documents instantly.

Travel Planning Tips

Now that you’re through customs, explore safe travel insights like in Is Cape Verde Safe for Tourists? 2026 Travel Safety Guide & Tips — it covers local risks, transportation, and more.

Disclaimer: Information is based on current regulations but can change. Always verify with official sources linked above.