Nikolai Timofejev
15 years in FinTech and payments. Maps your business model to the right Banco de Cabo Verde registration and leads the file to launch, including banking and payment rails.
Get a Cabo Verde crypto license.
Legalize your crypto business in an internationally recognized jurisdiction with favorable tax conditions.
27 yrs
on the international marketon the market
60+
in-house specialistsspecialists
400+
Crypto licenses obtainedlicenses obtained
Updated
Cabo Verde in brief
Regulation of cryptocurrency business in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde has become one of the leading jurisdictions for obtaining a crypto exchange license, offering favorable conditions for companies working with virtual assets. The local regulator has established a fair regulatory environment in which the crypto industry can develop - this is attractive to innovative companies in the blockchain and fintech sectors. Increasingly, investors and entrepreneurs are seeking legal certainty and compliance with requirements for conducting business with crypto assets, and this positions Cabo Verde as a strategic location for the registration and operation of crypto exchanges, wallet operators, and other digital asset services.
The main advantages of conducting crypto business in Cabo Verde: a transparent and business-oriented process for registering a crypto company; a favorable regulatory environment that supports industry growth; a growing demand for a clear licensing structure as the volume of cryptocurrency transactions increases; and the opportunity to register and formalize the activities of crypto services (exchanges, wallets, etc.).
Key authorities and official resources related to crypto business regulation: Banco de Cabo Verde - the central bank and main supervisory authority; Boletim Oficial - publications of laws and Avisos; the Ministry of Finance of Cabo Verde - financial and budgetary policy.
By obtaining a crypto exchange license, a company formalizes its activities in Cabo Verde - this provides an additional level of regulation, enhances client protection, and ensures the security of trading or transferring digital assets. The government and regulator have focused on compliance, security, and transparency in licensing, which is especially important for those intending to operate legitimately and within the law.
Companies planning to enter the crypto industry in Cabo Verde typically engage local consultants who assist with documentation, company registration, and compliance with legislation. Thanks to its proactive approach to cryptocurrency regulation, Cabo Verde has created an environment where businesses can innovate while confidently meeting regulatory requirements, making it one of the leading destinations in Africa for registering crypto businesses.
Cabo Verde: a regulated base for crypto exchanges, wallet operators and other digital asset services, supervised by Banco de Cabo Verde.
A transparent, business-oriented registration, favorable taxation and access to African and international markets.
The license
Types of activities covered by a Cabo Verde cryptocurrency license
A crypto exchange license in Cabo Verde covers a wide range of operations related to cryptocurrencies and digital assets. The legal framework allows companies to operate as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), offering the following core services in accordance with international standards.
Licensed VASPs can run exchange, brokerage, custody, wallet, payment, trading, P2P and advisory services.
01 - EXCHANGE
Exchange of cryptocurrencies and fiat funds
Organization of platforms for exchanging digital assets for fiat and vice versa; conducting trading operations and settlements.
Organization of platforms for exchanging digital assets for fiat and vice versa; conducting trading operations and settlements.
02 - BROKERAGE
Brokerage and market-making services
Acting as intermediaries in transactions, providing liquidity, and assisting in the execution of client orders.
Intermediation, liquidity and execution of client orders.
03 - CUSTODY
Custodial services and asset storage
Safekeeping of private keys, management of client wallets, and implementation of security measures to protect funds.
Safekeeping of private keys, management of client wallets, and implementation of security measures to protect funds.
04 - WALLETS
Wallet operators (wallet services)
Issuance and maintenance of software/hardware wallets for individual and business clients.
Issuance and maintenance of software/hardware wallets for individual and business clients.
05 - PAYMENTS
Payment gateways and money transfers
Integration of payment processors, handling of transfers in digital assets and/or fiat currencies.
Integration of payment processors, handling of transfers in digital assets and/or fiat currencies.
06 - TRADING
Trading platforms and infrastructure
Provision of infrastructure for trading, token listings, trading interfaces, and related services.
Provision of infrastructure for trading, token listings, trading interfaces, and related services.
07 - P2P
P2P platforms and aggregators
Organization of platforms for direct peer-to-peer transactions with KYC/AML compliance control.
Organization of platforms for direct peer-to-peer transactions with KYC/AML compliance control.
08 - ADVISORY
Advisory and related services
Legal, technical, and compliance support, security audits, and consulting on token listings.
Legal, technical, and compliance support, security audits, and consulting on token listings.
Each of these activities requires compliance with the relevant regulatory and compliance obligations, including KYC/AML procedures, asset security and protection measures, and transparent reporting to the regulator. A licensed company may also act as an intermediary, custodian of digital assets, payment provider or token issuer, offer value-added services (digital asset management, blockchain initiatives and smart contract integration, financial and operational consulting, payment gateways and integrations with fiat banking infrastructure) and serve clients in other jurisdictions while complying with local and international legal requirements.
Why Cabo Verde
Advantages of Cabo Verde as a jurisdiction for a crypto license
Cabo Verde has quickly established itself as an emerging hub for crypto business and digital financial innovation. Below are the key benefits for companies that choose to incorporate or obtain a license here.
✓
Business-friendly environment
The government of Cabo Verde supports the development of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies. The country offers a stable legal framework for operating with crypto assets and a clear licensing process; regulators and government agencies ensure simplified registration and take a progressive approach to fintech.Pro-innovation approach, clear rules and a digital, business-friendly environment.
✓
Internationally recognized license
A crypto license issued in Cabo Verde is recognized and considered compliant with the standards of leading international financial and regulatory organizations. This strengthens trust among clients, investors, and banking partners worldwide.The regulatory framework is accepted by international partners.
✓
Efficient licensing procedure
The requirements and application process are clearly defined, allowing transparent interaction with local authorities and minimizing bureaucracy. The regulator provides methodological guidance, making the licensing process faster and more efficient.Practical guidance from regulators on compliance and operations.
✓
Low tax burden and competitive costs
Tax rates for crypto companies in Cabo Verde are competitive, and certain types of digital asset activities are eligible for benefits or even tax exemptions. This allows businesses to use their capital more efficiently for growth and client services.Competitive taxation, low fees, efficient use of resources.
✓
Access to African and international markets
Thanks to its geographic location and international agreements, Cabo Verde offers access to financial markets in Africa, Europe, and other regions. A company holding a crypto exchange license can provide services at the international level.Gateway to African, EU and global crypto markets.
✓
Turnkey support
Prifinance prepares the complete document package and legal validation, sets up and implements compliance (KYC/AML, sanctions, monitoring), conducts technical audits and helps secure asset storage.Documents, compliance and audits under one roof.
How it compares
Cryptocurrency licensing in Cape Verde compared to other jurisdictions
When we place Cabo Verde in the middle of the choice between a crypto exchange license there and in other jurisdictions (Estonia, Malta, BVI, Seychelles), it is important to note: Cabo Verde often offers one of the best combinations of business, regulatory, and financial factors. Understanding these key differences helps applicants choose the zone best suited to their crypto business.
Cabo Verde vs other jurisdictions
| Feature |  Cabo Verde | Other jurisdictions |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory requirements and process | Formalized requirements for VASPs and pre-registration with Banco de Cabo Verde - a relatively transparent, business-friendly procedure | Some EU jurisdictions (Estonia, Malta) may require more detailed procedures and more documentation |
| Taxation and costs | General corporate income tax rates apply | BVI and Seychelles offer lower regimes for offshore companies; Estonia taxes undistributed profits at 0% |
| Flexibility and market access | Clients in international markets, including Africa and beyond | Some countries require physical presence or additional permits to serve local clients |
| Legal certainty and compliance support | Legal predictability and ongoing regulatory support | Malta (VFA framework): high legal clarity, but more complex compliance and higher costs |
Regulatory requirements and process
Cabo VerdeFormalized requirements for VASPs and pre-registration with Banco de Cabo Verde - a relatively transparent, business-friendly procedure
Other jurisdictionsSome EU jurisdictions (Estonia, Malta) may require more detailed procedures and more documentation
Taxation and costs
Cabo VerdeGeneral corporate income tax rates apply
Other jurisdictionsBVI and Seychelles offer lower regimes for offshore companies; Estonia taxes undistributed profits at 0%
Flexibility and market access
Cabo VerdeClients in international markets, including Africa and beyond
Other jurisdictionsSome countries require physical presence or additional permits to serve local clients
Legal certainty and compliance support
Cabo VerdeLegal predictability and ongoing regulatory support
Other jurisdictionsMalta (VFA framework): high legal clarity, but more complex compliance and higher costs
Country by country
| Jurisdiction | Licensing process | Taxation · operating costs | Regulatory support · market access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabo Verde | Fast, transparent | Low/0% · low | Strong · global |
 Estonia | Medium/complex | Medium · medium | Good · EU/international |
 Malta | Complex | High · high | Strong · EU/international |
 BVI (British Virgin Islands) | Fast, moderate | Low/0% · medium | Good · global |
 Seychelles | Fast, flexible | Low/0% · low | Moderate · global |
Cabo VerdeLicensing processFast, transparent
Taxation · operating costsLow/0% · low
Regulatory support · market accessStrong · global
EstoniaLicensing processMedium/complex
Taxation · operating costsMedium · medium
Regulatory support · market accessGood · EU/international
MaltaLicensing processComplex
Taxation · operating costsHigh · high
Regulatory support · market accessStrong · EU/international
BVI (British Virgin Islands)Licensing processFast, moderate
Taxation · operating costsLow/0% · medium
Regulatory support · market accessGood · global
SeychellesLicensing processFast, flexible
Taxation · operating costsLow/0% · low
Regulatory support · market accessModerate · global
Doing it properly
Requirements for obtaining a Cape Verde crypto exchange licenseWhat the license requires.
To obtain a cryptocurrency exchange license in Cabo Verde, a company must meet the requirements established by the local regulatory authority. The purpose of this procedure is to allow only serious, financially stable, and fully compliant participants to enter the market - those capable of ensuring the security and transparency of cryptocurrency and digital asset operations.
01
Company registration - The applicant must register a legal entity in one of Cabo Verde's financial zones and provide a complete set of information about its ownership structure: full details of all shareholders, information on directors and top management, and data on beneficial owners. This ensures transparency and control over the company's activities within the country.
02
Minimum capital requirements - To demonstrate financial stability, the company must deposit the required amount into a local bank account. The minimum capital depends on the type and scale of the cryptocurrency business and confirms that the company is ready for operational activity and has sufficient resources to fulfill its obligations to clients.
03
Application submission and documentation - A detailed application with supporting documentation: a comprehensive business plan, internal risk management procedures, anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) compliance programs, a description of the IT infrastructure and security systems, and legal documentation compliant with local regulations.
04
AML/KYC systems and regulatory compliance - Effective anti-money laundering and customer verification mechanisms: continuous monitoring of all transactions and user activities, compliance with international financial monitoring standards, and a certified compliance officer responsible for oversight and regular interaction with Cabo Verde's regulators.
05
Management and staff qualifications - All directors, managers, and beneficial owners undergo background checks for criminal records and must demonstrate professional experience in finance, law, or digital technologies, so that the company is managed by competent professionals with an impeccable reputation.
01
Company registration - Documents, directors, beneficiaries and structure
02
Capital deposit - Minimum deposit into a bank account in Cabo Verde
03
Application - Documents, business plan and internal policies
04
AML/KYC and compliance - Continuous monitoring, certified compliance officer
05
Qualified management - Background checks, experience, transparency
By meeting these conditions, a cryptocurrency company gains full legal recognition in Cabo Verde. Prifinance supports every stage of obtaining the license: preparing documentation, developing the business plan, implementing AML/KYC procedures and passing management checks - ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements and minimizing the risk of rejection.Meet these conditions and the company gains full legal recognition in Cabo Verde.
How it works
Registration of a cryptocurrency company in Cabo Verde: stages and timeframes
011-2 weeks
Consultation and preparation
Most companies start by getting a clear understanding of all legal and compliance requirements, usually with local lawyers and consultants. The corporate structure is formed, a detailed business plan is developed, and all supporting documents are prepared.Requirements, structure, business plan, documents.
021-2 weeks
Company registration and capital contribution
The legal entity is registered in one of Cabo Verde's financial zones, and the minimum required capital is deposited into a local bank account. These funds confirm the financial stability of the future crypto exchange.An entity in a financial zone, capital in a local bank.
031 week
Application submission
The company submits an official application along with a complete set of documents, including internal compliance policies, AML/KYC procedures, cybersecurity, and data protection plans.The official filing with compliance and security policies.
044-6 weeks
Regulatory review and compliance analysis
The regulator reviews the documents, conducts background checks on directors and beneficial owners, analyzes risk management and reporting systems, and evaluates the company's readiness to operate securely and legally.Document review and background checks.
051 week
Decision and license issuance
Upon completion of all reviews, a decision is made to grant the license for cryptocurrency exchange activities and related services.The decision and the license.
Key facts
License typeCrypto exchange operations and related services
Regulatory authorityBanco de Cabo Verde (Central Bank)
Minimum share capitalFrom EUR 50,000, depending on activity
Local officeYes, a registered legal address in Cabo Verde
Licensing timeframe7-12 weeks with complete documents
Corporate income taxLow rate, usually 0-10%
AML officerYes, a certified compliance officer
Remote applicationYes, with notarized and apostilled documents
AuditYes, an annual audit is required
International recognitionHigh - clients from the EU, Africa and globally
BankingAccounts with local and international banks
Non-residentsYes, foreign shareholders may own the company
Total duration: 7-12 weeks. The faster the documentation is prepared and the capital is deposited, the sooner approval will be granted. After obtaining the license, regular audits, accounting reports, and compliance monitoring are mandatory.
On the ground in Cabo Verde
Run from our Praia desk.
Prifinance - Cabo Verde
Praia · Cabo Verde
Praia, Santiago, Cabo Verde
01
Documents and legal validation
We prepare the complete document package and validate it legally before anything is filed.A full package, legally validated.
02
Compliance set-up
KYC/AML, sanctions screening and monitoring - set up and implemented for your business model.KYC/AML, sanctions, monitoring.
03
Technical audits and custody
Technical audits and help with the security of asset storage.Audits and secure storage.
04
Regulator and post-licensing
We communicate with the regulator, represent your interests locally and handle audits, reporting and banking relations after licensing.Regulator, reporting, banks.
We also have offices in
Vilnius
Lithuania
Gedimino pr. 2
Prague
Czech Republic
Vlkova 532/8, Žižkov
London
United Kingdom
7 Bell Yard
Dubai
UAE
33 Level, Al Saqr Business Tower
Istanbul
Turkey
Perpa Ticaret Merkezi, A Blok
Good to know
Taxation of companies with a crypto license in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde offers favorable tax conditions for cryptocurrency exchanges and companies engaged in digital asset trading. This makes the country attractive for both startups and established industry participants. The tax system is designed to encourage investment, development, and innovation in the field of virtual assets and blockchain technologies.
Low corporate tax
Licensed cryptocurrency companies are subject to a very low corporate tax rate, significantly lower than in many other countries. This allows them to retain a larger share of profits and efficiently reinvest in business growth.Supports growth and reinvestment.
No capital gains tax on crypto assets
Profits from cryptocurrency and other digital asset trading are not subject to capital gains tax. This approach increases the profitability of operations and allows companies to maximize the benefits of their transactions.On crypto trading profits.
No withholding tax on payments to foreign entities
Payments made from Cabo Verde to foreign investors or partners are generally exempt from withholding tax. This benefits businesses focused on international cooperation and expanding their global client base.On payments to foreign investors.
Simple and efficient compliance
Licensed companies must maintain accurate accounting records and undergo regular audits to comply with Cabo Verde's tax regulations. Continuous compliance, risk management, and proper documentation help avoid fines and sanctions.Accounting and regular audits.
Double taxation avoidance agreements
Cabo Verde has signed several double taxation avoidance agreements, which are especially beneficial for cryptocurrency companies operating internationally. An optimal tax strategy can be developed in collaboration with professional consultants.With select countries.
Tax summary
Corporate taxLow rate supporting growth and reinvestment
Capital gains taxExempt for profits from crypto asset trading
Withholding taxExempt for payments to foreign investors and partners
Compliance and reportingMandatory audit, accounting and regulatory adherence
Double taxation agreementsWith select countries - important for international operations
Operating a crypto business in Cabo Verde ensures tax efficiency, legal security, and competitiveness for international digital asset providers.
Turnkey professional support
Our specialists.
The Prifinance team includes lawyers, financial experts, and compliance specialists who know the legislation, help navigate its complexities, and use it to the client's advantage. We operate at the intersection of technology and law, creating a tailored strategy for each project - from choosing the optimal jurisdiction and preparing documentation to implementing AML/KYC systems and providing post-licensing business support.
Oleksii Kindratenko
Builds the application itself: the Cabo Verde company, the Banco de Cabo Verde registration file and the due-diligence and AML policy set. His document sets are the reason reviews finish cleanly.
Eugeniu Bevziuc
First point of contact for international founders. Runs the whole setup remotely, across time zones and languages - from the first call to a clean, registered business.
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Open a crypto company in Cabo Verde - fast, hassle-free, with full legal support.
Prifinance supports clients at every stage, from the initial consultation to the successful receipt of the license.
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Request a free conclusion →FAQ
Crypto license in Cabo Verde: frequently asked questions.
What is a cryptocurrency exchange license in Cabo Verde?+
It is an official authorization issued by the state that allows a company to legally provide services related to cryptocurrencies and virtual assets within the country's regulated financial zone.
What types of activities can be carried out under the license?+
A licensed company may engage in the exchange and trading of cryptocurrencies, the provision of wallets and digital asset storage, the processing of cryptocurrency-based payments, and consulting and client support in the field of blockchain and digital assets.
What are the requirements for obtaining a license?+
You need to register a company in Cabo Verde, deposit the minimum share capital, submit a package of documents including a business plan and compliance policies, and implement effective AML/KYC procedures and an internal control system.
How long does it take to obtain a license?+
The licensing process usually takes from 7 to 12 weeks. The duration directly depends on the speed of document preparation, company registration, and completion of all regulatory checks.
What taxes must crypto companies pay in Cabo Verde?+
Corporate tax is set at a low rate; there is no capital gains tax on crypto asset trading and no withholding tax on payments to foreign investors and partners. At the same time, the company is required to maintain regular accounting and compliance monitoring.
Is continuous AML and compliance control mandatory?+
Yes, all licensed crypto companies are required to regularly monitor clients and transactions, maintain compliance with AML/KYC standards, and adhere to regulatory requirements on an ongoing basis.
Can foreign shareholders and beneficial owners participate in company registration?+
Yes, foreign shareholders and beneficial owners may be registered, provided that all other legal and regulatory requirements are met.
What documents are required to apply for a license?+
The package includes a detailed business plan, proof of deposited capital, an AML/KYC policy, an information security policy, and all relevant legal documentation.
Who regulates cryptocurrency exchanges in Cabo Verde?+
Supervision and licensing are carried out by the local regulatory authority - the Central Bank of Cabo Verde. It monitors compliance with regulatory standards, conducts audits, and oversees the reporting of all crypto service providers.
Why choose Cabo Verde for running a crypto business?+
A business-friendly environment, a favorable tax system, legal security, access to international markets, and active support for innovation in the crypto sector.
What is the license?+
State authorization for crypto and virtual-asset services.
Which activities?+
Exchange and trading, wallets and storage, crypto payments, consulting.
Requirements?+
A company, minimum capital, documents and policies, AML/KYC.
How long?+
Usually 7-12 weeks.
Taxes?+
Low corporate tax, no capital gains or withholding tax on the points above.
Ongoing AML?+
Yes - continuous client and transaction monitoring.
Foreign owners?+
Yes, if all requirements are met.
Documents?+
Business plan, capital proof, AML/KYC and security policies, legal documents.
Who regulates?+
The Central Bank of Cabo Verde.
Why Cabo Verde?+
Business-friendly, tax-efficient, legally secure, internationally connected.
Client notes
Google4.7★★★★★
Founders who wanted it done right.
Google4.7★★★★★
“As a software development crew at FewMoreTaps OÜ, we've had the pleasure of working with Prifinance on some key financial moves.First of all, navigating the world of corporate banking and finance can be a maze, but Prifinance made it feel like a walk in the park. They helped us set up a corporate bank account without the hassle of jumping on a plane or drowning in paperwork. Everything was done remotely, smoothly…”
Google
“I had their assistance in company registration and I would recommend them. They were answering all my clarification during the process and offering all their supportThank you Daniel and Irinia”
Google
“We found PRIFINANCE COMPANYvia the Internet and asked for help in organizing the opening of their company in Estonia. PRIFINANCE COMPANY specialists helped us a lot with this. Their professional, competent approach and knowledge of their business left us with only the best impressions.”
Google
“I'm thrilled with my experience with PriFinance! They helped me obtain a crypto license in Estonia without any hassle. The team was super understanding and always available to answer my questions and assist. It was great to see how they put effort into preparing the documents to ensure everything went smoothly. I'm delighted with the outcome and highly recommend PriFinance to anyone looking to get a license…”
Google
“Opening an account with Prifinance in a Swiss bank was such an easy and quick process that I was shocked. It all started with the first call, where I received detailed guidance on the required documents and the entire procedure.One of the key highlights was their attention to detail. As someone who usually gets tangled up in paperwork, I was pleasantly surprised when they sent me all the documents and…”
Google
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Google
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Prifinance is an independent law and advisory firm. We are not a regulator and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of Banco de Cabo Verde or the Government of Cabo Verde. Licenses are granted by, and obtained directly from, the competent authority.