One of the most frequently cited barriers for those living outside Cape Verde who want to buy property in the country has always been the same: obtaining bank financing when the main income comes from abroad. In February 2026, the Ministry of Finance presented the 2026 State Budget incentive package directed at the diaspora — the most comprehensive to date — and one of its most concrete new measures directly addresses that problem: a housing credit programme designed for emigrants.
What the diaspora housing credit programme brings
Until now, those living outside Cape Verde who wanted to finance the purchase of a property faced banking processes designed essentially for those with income and financial history within the country. The 2026 State Budget programme introduces simplified access conditions for emigrants with income generated abroad, recognising that the financial profile of a diaspora buyer is different from that of a resident.
In practice, this means it becomes more viable to present income received in euros, dollars or other foreign currency as the basis for credit analysis, without this being an automatic obstacle to approval.
Why this is relevant now
The 2026 State Budget diaspora package is not limited to housing credit — it also includes customs exemptions on the import of finishing materials, furniture and household appliances for those building or refurbishing their first home in Cape Verde, and reductions of up to 30-50% in the tax levy for relevant investment projects, with higher percentages in municipalities with below-average per capita GDP.
But it is the housing credit that resolves the most practical obstacle: until now, many diaspora members ended up buying only with accumulated savings, without bank leverage, which limited the type and value of property within reach of each family.
How to access the programme
The starting point for most of the diaspora package benefits is the Emigrant Investor Certificate, created by Law No. 73/IX/2020. The application is made at the Single Emigrant Service Desk, with an issuance deadline of 10 working days. From there, it is possible to move forward with the credit application at banks that have joined the programme.
*Note: as the specific conditions of each banking institution may vary and be subject to update, the next step is always to confirm directly with your reference bank in Cape Verde what the conditions are at the time you advance with the application.*
This changes the equation for those who were hesitating
If you have been putting off the decision to buy in Cape Verde because you couldn't see how to finance the purchase without depleting your savings, this is the moment to reassess. A credit programme designed specifically for your profile — income abroad, connection to Cape Verde, intention to invest or return — reduces one of the biggest friction points the diaspora has faced until now.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be Cape Verdean to access this credit?
The programme is part of the diaspora incentive package, so it is directed at Cape Verdean citizens residing abroad. Foreigners without a connection to Cape Verde have other financing routes available, with their own conditions.
Does the credit cover 100% of the property value?
Financing conditions vary according to the bank and the applicant's profile — it is worth comparing proposals before deciding.
Does this programme replace the Green Card?
No — they are different incentives. The Green Card is linked to obtaining permanent residency through real estate investment; the diaspora housing credit facilitates the financing of the purchase itself. In many cases, they can complement each other.
Want to find out which properties fit your financing conditions?
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*This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace specialised banking or legal advice. The conditions of public programmes may be updated — we recommend always confirming the current terms with the competent authorities before making a decision.*
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