São Tomé and Príncipe (STP), a picturesque archipelago in the Gulf of Guinea with a population of about 232,000 and projected GDP growth of 3.1% in 2025, is increasingly attracting foreigners through its investor-friendly policies and natural beauty. As of September 19, 2025, the legal regime for foreigners is governed by immigration laws emphasizing streamlined entry for tourism, business, and investment, while prioritizing local employment. The Migration and Borders Service (Serviço de Migração e Fronteiras - SMF) oversees processes, with the eVisaST platform facilitating online applications. Key requirements include a passport valid for at least six months (per US State Department guidelines, though some sources note three months beyond stay), proof of yellow fever vaccination, and, for many nationalities, no visa for short stays up to 15-30 days. The August 2025 Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers a fast-track to residency and citizenship, complementing traditional visas. This article expands on visa types, procedures, residency options, and exceptional regimes, incorporating current practices.

Business Visa

Designed for commercial activities, this visa allows entry for meetings, negotiations, or short-term work without local employment. It is valid for up to 30 days and can be single or multiple entry. 

Temporary Visa 

This visa suits cultural, tourism, or other non-commercial purposes approved by authorities. It is valid for up to 180 days with one or multiple entries, but uninterrupted stays cannot exceed three months. It must be used within 90 days of issuance, and holders are barred from profit-making activities except cultural ones. For tourists, many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry up to 15-30 days, making this visa ideal for extended visits. Requirements mirror the business visa, with emphasis on proof of accommodation and funds (e.g., bank statements showing at least €50/day). 

Application follows the eVisaST process, with fees around $20-50.

Residence Visa 

For longer stays, this visa leads to residency and is categorized by purpose. It requires a valid travel document and, for minors, parental authorization. Applications are submitted at STP embassies or consulates, with processing up to 30 days.

• For Subordinate Professional Activity: Submit an employment contract with a favorable opinion from the Ministry of Labor (issued within 20 days), verifying contractual terms and lack of suitable local candidates. Foreign worker quotas apply (preference for locals).
• For Independent Professional Activity: Prove foreign investment or sufficient funds for self-employment, plus qualifications where needed.
• For Research or Highly Qualified Positions: Affiliation with recognized research centers, a job offer, and return guarantees if stay becomes irregular.
• For Study, Exchange, Internship, or Volunteer: Valid travel document; minors need parental consent.
• For Family Reunification: SMF notifies the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for immediate issuance post-approval.

Authorizations and Procedures for Obtaining Residency

Temporary Residence Certificate:Permanent Residence Certificate:

Once in STP on a residence visa, apply for a residence certificate at the SMF office or through a legal representative. General conditions include a valid visa, police clearance, health certificate, and proof of accommodation/funds. Processing takes 15-30 days, with fees around STN 5,000-10,000 ($220-450).

Valid for one year from issuance, renewable annually or upon changes in details. Allows work/study as per visa.

No expiry, but renew every five years or on changes. Granted after several years of temporary residency, demonstrating integration (e.g., language, contributions).

The CBI program offers an alternative: Donate $90,000 (single) or $95,000 (family of four) to the National Transformation Fund for citizenship in 6 weeks, granting immediate residency rights without prior visa requirements. No residency, interview, or language tests needed; includes family (spouse, children up to 30, parents over 55). Applications are remote, with a $5,000 non-refundable fee, plus extras like passport issuance ($350).

Exceptional Regimes

Per a Government Decree from April 2017, citizens of certain countries (e.g., EU, USA, Canada) enjoy visa-free entry for up to 15 days for tourism/business. US citizens can stay up to 30 days visa-free. Chinese holders of diplomatic/special passports get 15 days exemption, following diplomatic reestablishment. Recent visa waivers (ratified 2025) with Ghana, Mozambique, Colombia, and Dominica allow reciprocal 15-day stays, enhancing regional ties. Extensions are possible via SMF for justified reasons.

Visa and Residency for Foreigners in São Tomé and Príncipe

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Visa and Residency for Foreigners in São Tomé and Príncipe

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