São Tomé & Príncipe
Citizenship by Investment
Citizenship Program Overview
Launched on August 1, 2025, the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme offers investors a fast and secure path to permanent citizenship, with no residency, interview, or renunciation requirements of their current nationality. As a peaceful African island nation and a member of key international bodies, such as the UN, IMF, and World Bank, São Tomé and Príncipe offers both stability and global connectivity.
Benefits of the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
- Visa-Free Access: Enjoy visa-free or e-visa travel to over 93 destinations, including key international centres such as South Africa, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
- Fast Approval: One of the fastest citizenship programmes in the world, granting full citizenship in as little as 1–2 months.
- Full Citizen Rights: Benefit from all legal rights and privileges of São Toméan nationality.
- Dual Citizenship: You can retain your existing nationality, as São Tomé & Príncipe recognises and supports dual citizenship.
- Inclusive for Families: Include your spouse, children under 30, and parents aged 55+ within one streamlined application process.
- Open to Restricted Nationalities: Unlike many other citizenship programmes, the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme welcomes applicants from Iran and Russia, offering an inclusive opportunity for investors who often face restrictions elsewhere.
- No Physical Presence Required: Apply for citizenship entirely remotely; no travel or physical stay in São Tomé & Príncipe is needed at any stage of the process.
- No Language Requirement: There are no language tests or proficiency requirements, making the application process simple and accessible to all nationalities.
- No Residency Obligations: Enjoy full citizenship benefits without the need to reside in São Tomé & Príncipe before, during, or after approval.
- Tax Optimisation Opportunities: Leverage São Tomé & Príncipe’s favourable tax regime to enhance your global wealth management and international tax planning strategies.
Requirements of the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
To qualify for citizenship, you must:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Applicants must have no criminal record.
- The applicant must be in good health.
- Applicants must successfully pass due diligence checks.
- Applicants must show proof of a valid source of income.
Investment Options of the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
To obtain citizenship in São Tomé & Príncipe, applicants are required to make a contribution to the National Transformation Fund of:
- $90,000 for a single applicant
- $95,000 for a family of two to four
- $5,000 for each additional dependent
Procedures & Time Frame of the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
The Citizenship Investment Unit oversees and processes all applications for the São Tomé Principe Citizenship by Investment Program. The government carries out comprehensive due diligence checks to ensure that all information is accurate and compliant with program standards. Any false statements or missing essential details may result in rejection.
Once approval in principle is granted, applicants will be instructed to complete the required financial contribution within the given timeframe. Upon confirmation of the investment, an oath of allegiance is administered either locally in São Tomé and Principe or at an approved international location.
Overall, the processing timeline is efficient. With Emirates Advisory managing your application, you can expect the entire process, from submission to passport issuance, to be completed in as little as 6 to 8 weeks, ensuring a secure and streamlined pathway to Sao Tome Principe citizenship.
Dual Citizenship of the São Tomé & Príncipe
São Tomé & Príncipe passport holders can hold dual citizenship.
São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program FAQ's
How long does it take to acquire a São Tomé & Príncipe passport?
The São Tomé & Príncipe citizenship process is among the fastest in the world. Most applicants receive their citizenship and second passport within 1 to 2 months, depending on the speed of due diligence and documentation.
What are the investment options available for obtaining citizenship in São Tomé & Príncipe?
To qualify, investors make a one-time contribution to the National Transformation Fund. The minimum investment begins at USD 90,000 for a single applicant, with additional costs for families and dependents.
Can family members be included in the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment application?
Yes. The programme allows the main applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 30, and parents aged 55 or older in one application, making it a family-friendly path to permanent citizenship and a second passport.
What are the residence requirements for the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship Programme?
There are no physical residency or travel requirements. Applicants can complete the entire São Tomé & Príncipe citizenship process remotely, without needing to visit or relocate to the country.
What documents are required for the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment application?
Applicants must provide a valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance, medical certificate, and proof of legitimate funds. Our legal agent will guide you through each step to ensure compliance with the government’s application standards.
What is the process for applying for São Tomé & Príncipe citizenship?
The process includes five key steps:
- Initial consultation and eligibility check.
- Document preparation and due diligence submission.
- Government approval-in-principle.
- Investment contribution to the National Transformation Fund.
- Issuance of a citizenship certificate and a passport.
The entire procedure can be completed efficiently through a legal agent.
Is it possible to gain São Tomé & Príncipe citizenship by marriage, and what are the requirements?
Yes. Foreign nationals married to a São Toméan citizen may apply for citizenship through marriage after meeting the required period of marriage and legal residency, as outlined in national law.
Does São Tomé & Príncipe recognise dual citizenship?
Absolutely. São Tomé & Príncipe recognises and allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your existing nationality while enjoying the benefits of a São Toméan passport, including visa-free access to numerous destinations and enhanced global mobility.