São Tomé & Príncipe.

Citizenship By Investment

The São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program offers a cost-effective second passport for individuals and families seeking global mobility and long-term flexibility. Established under national law, the program grants citizenship through a non-refundable government contribution and is gaining attention for its low entry threshold, streamlined processing, and fully remote application process.

São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment

Overview

Investment

$95,000

Minimum investment amount in USD.

Processing Time

6–8 weeks

Total time required to obtain citizenship. Subject to due diligence.

Investment Return

Contribution-Based

The São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program is structured as a contribution-based pathway

Key Benefit

60+ destinations

including South Africa, Singapore, and Hong Kong (SAR China), offering enhanced global mobility and travel flexibility

A Strategic Second Citizenship Option.

The São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program is an emerging option for individuals and families seeking a cost-effective second passport for global mobility, risk diversification, and long-term planning.Established under national legislation, the program allows eligible foreign nationals to acquire citizenship through a non-refundable financial contribution to a government-approved national development fund. While newer than Caribbean citizenship programs, São Tomé & Príncipe’s framework has gained attention for its lower entry threshold, streamlined processing, and remote application structure.

At FNDCS Immigration, we guide clients through this program with full transparency, careful due diligence, and realistic expectations.

Language

Portuguese

Timezone

GMT +0 (UTC)

Population

~244,994

Capital City

São Tomé

Currency

São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN)

Region

Africa - Gulf Of Guinea

Benefits of São Tomé & Príncipe's Citizenship By Investment Program

  • Cost-effective second citizenship

    One of the lowest financial entry points among formal CBI programs.

  • CPLP Benefits

    São Tomé & Príncipe is a member of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP). While citizenship does not automatically confer residency or work rights in other member states, it can provide facilitated pathways and cooperation-based opportunities for residence, study, or professional mobility within Lusophone countries such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique. This membership can be a strategic advantage for individuals interested in long-term engagement and mobility within the Portuguese-speaking world.

  • Visa Free Travel

    Visa-free travel access to over 60 destinations, including South Africa, Singapore, and Hong Kong (SAR China), with e-visa access to Qatar, and the UAE.

  • Remote application process

    Fully remote application process with no residence, language, or physical presence requirements.

  • Dual Citizenship

    Dual citizenship permitted, granting full rights and privileges of São Toméan nationals.

  • Family-friendly structure

    Allows multi-generational inclusion under a single application.

  • Improved travel flexibility

    Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 60+ destinations (subject to change).

  • Risk diversification

    Provides an additional citizenship as part of long-term personal, family, or business planning.

  • Tropical Climate

    Warm tropical climate year-round in a safe, stable nation with citizenship that can be passed on to future generations.

Who is the São Tomé & Príncipe's CBI Program best Suited For?

Cost-Conscious Second Passport Seekers

  • This program is ideal for individuals looking for one of the most affordable entry points into second citizenship. It suits applicants who value practicality and accessibility over premium passport rankings.

Family-Focused Applicants

  • Families who want a straightforward application structure with the ability to include spouses, children, and dependent parents under one file will find this program particularly appealing.

Mobility & Optionality Planners

  • Applicants who prioritize travel flexibility—rather than full relocation or EU residency—benefit from the visa-free and visa-on-arrival access offered by the São Tomé & Príncipe passport.

Emerging-Program Adopters

  • Applicants comfortable with a newer, evolving citizenship program rather than a long-established legacy CBI.

São Tomé & Príncipe Passport

The São Tomé & Príncipe passport is an emerging travel document that offers practical benefits for individuals seeking a cost-effective second citizenship. While it does not rank among the world’s strongest passports, it provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 60+ destinations, including countries such as South Africa, Singapore, and Hong Kong (SAR China), making it a useful option for regional and international mobility. This level of access supports greater travel flexibility for businesspeople and individuals looking to diversify their passport portfolio.

Citizenship is obtained through São Tomé & Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment Program, which is structured around a streamlined, largely remote application process. The program emphasizes efficiency while maintaining due diligence and compliance checks. For applicants who understand the nature of an emerging CBI program and value affordability, simplicity, and optionality, São Tomé & Príncipe offers a clear and accessible pathway to a second passport.

Passport Rank

Freedom of travel - 110
Asset protection - 108
Quality of life - 110
"Plan B" - 54

Validity of the São Tomé & Príncipe passport

The standard passport is typically issued with a validity of 5 years and is renewable, subject to prevailing government regulations at the time of renewal.

Government Processing Time

The Citizenship by Investment application is commonly processed within 6–8 weeks, assuming complete documentation and successful completion of due diligence checks. Processing times are indicative and may vary depending on individual circumstances.

São Tomé and Príncipe Passport
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Investment options

The São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program requires applicants to make a qualifying economic contribution to the country in exchange for citizenship. Following a structured application process that includes comprehensive due diligence and background checks, successful applicants and their eligible family members are granted full citizenship.

To be eligible, the main applicant must be at least 18 years old, be in good health, have a clean criminal record, and demonstrate a legitimate source of income. Applicants must also satisfy all compliance and due diligence requirements set by the authorities.

Donation to the National Transformation Fund

Citizenship is obtained through a non-refundable donation to the National Transformation Fund, with the following contribution levels:
— USD 90,000 for a single applicant;
— USD 95,000 for a family of two to four members;
— USD 5,000 for each additional dependent;
— A submission fee of USD 5,000 per application applies in addition to the contribution.

Procedure and time frame of São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program

The São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program follows a streamlined, contribution-based procedure designed to be efficient and accessible. Applicants qualify for citizenship by making a non-refundable financial contribution to the government-approved National Transformation Fund, which supports national infrastructure, economic development, and public initiatives. The program does not require real estate acquisition or business investment.

As part of the process, applicants must submit a complete application package, including proof of a legitimate source of funds, identity documentation, and background information for due diligence review. The program is structured with no residence, travel, or language proficiency requirements, allowing the application to be completed remotely.

Once all due diligence and compliance checks are successfully concluded and the required contribution is made, the application is submitted for government approval. Upon approval, citizenship is granted to the main applicant and eligible family members.

The overall processing time is typically approximately 6–8 weeks, subject to the completeness of documentation and the outcome of background checks.

São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe

Discover the natural beauty of São Tomé & Príncipe, a tranquil island nation set in the Gulf of Guinea where unspoiled landscapes and rich culture come together. From pristine beaches and lush rainforests to volcanic peaks and crystal-clear waters, the islands offer a rare sense of authenticity and calm. Experience the warmth of local hospitality, enjoy fresh island cuisine influenced by African and Portuguese traditions, and explore a destination that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Whether you are drawn by nature, culture, or quiet exploration, São Tomé & Príncipe provides a peaceful and memorable island experience unlike anywhere else.

How FNDCS Immigration Can Assist You

Our team of seasoned professionals is committed to providing end-to-end support throughout the citizenship acquisition process. From initial consultation to finalizing documentation and beyond, rely on FNDCS Immigration for unparalleled expertise and personalized service.

Unlock unparalleled opportunities and embrace a world of possibilities with second citizenship through FNDCS Immigration. Experience seamless integration into new cultures, economies, and communities while safeguarding your legacy for generations to come.

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