Luis Sa Silva will switch to the GP3 Series with Carlin this year. The 22-year-old Angolan will partner Eric Lichtenstein and one yet-to-be named driver at the British team in the Formula 1 support series.
"GP3, particularly with the introduction of the new-generation car, has become a real steppingstone to the top level of motorsport," Sa Silva said. "With 400hp, the GP3 car will be a real step up and there will be a lot to learn.
"I am so excited to race against some of the best drivers in Europe on the F1 package and represent Angola to the best of my abilities and I know that with Carlin I have a great package with which to do that."
Sa Silva raced in Formula 3 last year, finishing 14th in the Euro Series and 13th in the European championship.
Team boss Trevor Carlin added: "The GP3 car is going to be quite a step up from F3 in terms of power this year, but we're giving Luis all the tools he needs to be able to make the most of this fantastic opportunity."
2013 GP3 Series lineup so far:
Lotus (ART) Jack Harvey TBA TBA
MW Arden Daniil Kvyat Carlos Sainz Jr Robert Visoiu
Carlin Eric Lichtenstein Luis Sa Silva TBA
Jenzer Patric Niederhauser TBA TBA
Manor TBA TBA TBA
Status Jimmy Eriksson TBA TBA
Atech CRS TBA TBA TBA
Trident Emanuele Zonzini David Fumanelli TBA
Koiranen Kevin Korjus Aaro Vainio Patrick Kujala