Cape Verde has introduced compulsory COVID testing for all new arrivals, including fully vaccinated visitors.

A travel update by the Foreign Office warns travellers they’ll need a negative PCR test done 72 hours before boarding a flight to Cape Verde or an antigen test done 48 hours previously.

“If you do not present a COVID-19 test done in the last 72 or 48 hours, you will not be allowed to board your flight,” it says.

Arrivals can no longer use COVID-19 proof of recovery or their vaccination records to enter Cape Verde.

This new rule could pose problems for those who’ve recently recovered from the virus, who might still test positive, especially on more sensitive PCR tests.

Children under 12 are exempt from testing.

Travellers to Cape Verde must also fill in an International Travel Form on the Covid19.cv website.

Temperatures will be taken on arrival in Cape Verde and people could be asked to take another test.