Sao Tome and Principe has launched a citizenship program for investments of $90,000 and up, with processing times of up to 6 weeks. Learn about the conditions, requirements, passport benefits, and how to use the funds

The official launch of the Citizenship by Investment (CIP) program in São Tomé and Príncipe opens up a new channel for investors to obtain a second passport in Africa. The law came into force on August 1, 2025, and applications will begin to be accepted in early September. Everything that is currently known about São Tomé and Príncipe’s citizenship by investment is described in this article.

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What is worth knowing about São Tomé and Príncipe?

São Tomé and Príncipe is a small island state in the Gulf of Guinea, approximately 300 km off the coast of Gabon. The country is famous for its political stability, peaceful atmosphere and developing economy. The main sources of income are agriculture, tourism and energy projects.

Although the population is about 220 thousand people, the government is actively working to attract foreign direct investment, including through economic migration programs.

What are the conditions for participating in the São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment program?

There are several types of payments for submitting an application.

First, a registration fee of $5,000 is paid - it is fixed and does not depend on the number of people in the family.

After the application is approved, a single investor makes a donation of $90,000. For families of two to four people, the amount is $95,000. Each additional dependent costs another $5,000.

Separately, after approval, state fees are paid: $350 for a passport, $150 for a national ID card and $250 for a registration certificate for each participant.

If new dependents are added to the family after obtaining citizenship, you must pay the application fee again ($5,000), as well as $10,000 for a spouse or $5,000 for another eligible person. The inclusion of a newborn child costs $500.

Requirements for applicants for citizenship by investment in São Tomé and Príncipe

The program does not require a mandatory residency in the country or an interview. This makes it convenient for busy investors.

Citizens of most countries can apply. The only restriction applies to citizens of North Korea.

Dependents include spouses, children under 30 years of age (provided that they are unmarried and financially dependent), and parents over 55 years of age.

How long will it take to process documents for citizenship by investment in São Tomé and Príncipe?

The Citizenship Investment Unit (CIU) will operate as a public-private partnership and will be based in Dubai. The expected processing time for applications is up to six weeks.

The CIU management brings together experts in the international economic migration market and citizens of São Tomé. According to Alfredo Trinidad, the head of the Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, the location in Dubai provides global accessibility and allows for the provision of services at the level of private companies, while maintaining state control.

How will the investment be used?

All funds from donations will go to the National Transformation Fund. The first major project is the country’s full transition to renewable energy. Further funding is planned for road infrastructure, housing, education and social programs.

The program is expected to create new jobs, strengthen the country’s electricity grid and support local businesses.

What does a Sao Tome and Principe passport give you?

The passport provides visa-free access to 61 countries, including South Africa. A visa is required for travel to the EU and the UK.

The program is aimed not only at those seeking mobility, but also at investors interested in tax optimization, asset diversification, inheritance planning and reducing political risks.

Agent Terms

Agents receive a fixed fee of US$20,000 for each successful application, regardless of the number of family members. They can also set their own additional fees.

The Sao Tome and Principe Citizenship by Investment Program offers fast processing, a moderate entry threshold and a clear strategy for using funds for the development of the country. For investors looking for a balance between cost, speed and benefits, it can be an interesting alternative to Caribbean and European programs.

Are you planning to obtain citizenship by investment in São Tomé and Príncipe or another country?

Migration lawyers with many years of experience will help you: choose the optimal program for your goals and budget, prepare a package of documents without the risk of rejection, accompany the application and communication with the authorized bodies and protect your interests at every stage.

Contact us for a consultation to start the process today and avoid mistakes that can cost time and money.

As a reminder! Africa is rapidly gaining momentum as a new destination for investment migration. Against the backdrop of high prices in Europe and the Caribbean, African countries offer fast, flexible and financially affordable residency and citizenship by investment programs. We have already talked about the most interesting destinations: from $35,000 in Mauritius to a quick passport in Sierra Leone or stable residence in Cape Verde and Egypt.

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