Moving to Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) usually means moving to Sal. The island has an international airport, the most flights to Europe, long white beaches and sun all year round. Many people first come on holiday and then decide to stay, to retire, to work remotely or to start a business. Emigrating does raise practical questions. Huefter is based in Santa Maria, Sal, and arranges the practical side of your move.
Where to live on Sal
Santa Maria, Sal: the tourist town in the south, with the long beach, restaurants, shops and most holiday homes. Lively, popular with foreigners and good for rental.
Espargos, Sal: the capital in the middle of the island, next to the airport. Government offices, the hospital, supermarkets and a local atmosphere. More affordable and practical for living all year.
Murdeira, Sal: a quiet bay on the west coast between Santa Maria and Palmeira, with sea views and calm water.
Palmeira, Sal: the harbour village on the west coast, small and authentic.
Step by step: what to arrange
NIF number: your tax number in Cabo Verde. You need it for almost everything: buying a house, a bank account, contracts and utilities.
Residence: the rules for staying longer depend on your nationality and situation. Always check the current requirements with the official authorities before you move.
What does it cost to live on Sal?
That depends mostly on where you live and how. Rent and house prices are highest in Santa Maria, lower in Espargos. Imported products in the supermarket are often more expensive than in Europe, while local fish, fruit and services are cheaper. Electricity and water are worth looking at: your own solar energy lowers your monthly costs.
Let Huefter arrange it for you
Huefter lives and works on Sal. Tell us what you need and we take care of it: NIF number, finding and buying a house, shipping your belongings, a car and solar panels. One contact on the island, from the first question to the keys. Send us a message on WhatsApp: +238 597 56 78.
Written by Tom Wegter of Huefter, Santa Maria, Sal (Cape Verde) · last updated: 2 November 2026
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