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ABOUT
SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE
SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE
São Tomé and Príncipe is a two-island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea, part of the volcanic chain in Central Africa. It lies astride the Equator, just west of Gabon and mainland Equatorial Guinea. Its central position off the coast of West Africa makes it a natural hub for regional maritime trade, fisheries, and a potential gateway for investment and access to key emerging markets across the African continent.
ABOUT THE CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE
With a favorable tax regime, Portuguese speaking countries community benefits, visa-free access to 60+ countries, and a fast, transparent application process, São-Tomė and Príncipe citizenship attracts investors from around the world.
São Tomé and Príncipe launched its Citizenship by Investment program in 2025 with the aim of strengthening environmental protection, stimulating economic growth, and attracting foreign investment.
The program offers one of the fastest and most affordable routes to citizenship, with a passport obtainable in as little as one to two months.
There are no residency requirements, no obligation to renounce the original citizenship, and no language or history tests. Investors may also include their spouse, children, and parents in the application.
The program offers one of the fastest and most affordable routes to citizenship, with a passport obtainable in as little as one to two months.
To obtain citizenship, the investor makes a non-refundable contribution starting at $90,000 to the National Transformation Fund. The proceeds from this fund will be allocated toward the development of key national infrastructure projects, including: Renewable Energy Initiatives, Eco-Tourism Development, Education and Infrastructure.
There are no residency requirements, no obligation to renounce the original citizenship, and no language or history tests. Investors may also include their spouse, children, and parents in the application.
Family members—such as a spouse, children, and parents—can be included in the application along with the main investor or later in the future.
Citizenship is hereditary, meaning future children and grandchildren can inherit citizenship without any additional investment.
Citizenship is hereditary, meaning future children and grandchildren can inherit citizenship without any additional investment.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
Holding second citizenship enables effective diversification of currency and national risks, and opens up additional opportunities for international investments.
FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITIES
São Tomé and Príncipe offers favorable tax environment for investors and businesses.
TAX-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT
São Tomé and Príncipe is a proud member of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP).
Citizenship grants access to special residency, study, and work opportunities in member states such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.
Citizenship grants access to special residency, study, and work opportunities in member states such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.
CPLP MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
A second passport is a strategic asset and your personal "Plan B"—providing protection for both your capital and personal safety in cases of political or economic instability, or threats to life in your country of residence.
A STRATEGIC BACKUP PLAN
A São Tomé and Príncipe passport grants visa-free access to over 60 countries, including Singapore and Hong Kong.
GLOBAL MOBILITY
São Tomé and Príncipe allows dual citizenship, and information about citizenship recipients is not disclosed.
CONFIDENTIALITY
SIMPLE AND FAST PROCESS FOR OBTAINING SECOND CITIZENSHIP
The application and citizenship process takes 1-2 months.
All document submissions are handled remotely, and the mandatory interview with the investor can also be conducted online.
There is no requirement to visit the island, nor is there a language or cultural knowledge exam.
All document submissions are handled remotely, and the mandatory interview with the investor can also be conducted online.
There is no requirement to visit the island, nor is there a language or cultural knowledge exam.
VISA-FREE COUNTRIES AND VISAS BENEFITS FOR
SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE PASSPORT
SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE PASSPORT
Special conditions for Portugues-speaking countries
CPLP Countries
30+ eVisa/eTA countries
30+ eVisa/eTA countries
Jordan, Mauritius and other countries
30+ Visa-on-Arrival countries
Singapore, Hong Kong and other countries
20+ Visa-Free countries
Why everyone chooses us
Citizenship by Investment Professionals is one of the leading international immigration law companies. Headquartered in Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis and Port Vila, Vanuatu CBI Professionals operates a global network spanning London, Dubai, Hong Kong and Lagos
We are an official licensed agent for several Pacific and West Indies Governments including Federation of St Kitts & Nevis, Republic of Vanuatu, Republic of Nauru and Kingdom of Tonga. Since 2010 we create and promote initiatives that support economic and social development of the countries we represent. CBI Professionals works closely with Pacific and Caribbean Governments and private sector, representing and facilitating outreach through our international offices, promoting citizenship programs and offering solutions for international investors.
CBI Professionals also acts as:
- A link to ensure uninterrupted communication between our jurisdictions and key geographic centers of the world.
- An information resource for tourism, property investment and travel related enquiries.
- A resource for researching investment opportunities and bilateral trade.
- An administrative resource to support the citizenship application process.
/Non-refundable investments/
DONATION TO GOVERNMENT FUND
INVESTMENT OPTIONS
Contribution from 90,000 $
INVESTMENT OPTION 1
Contribution to the National Transformation Fund
Investor makes a non-refundable, one-time contribution to the National Transformation Fund, which is allocated for economic growth and environmental protection. The contribution is non-refundable and does not generate any income.
Option benefits:
Investor makes a non-refundable, one-time contribution to the National Transformation Fund, which is allocated for economic growth and environmental protection. The contribution is non-refundable and does not generate any income.
Option benefits:
- It is a straightforward investment route so timelines are swift and efficient.
- The funds strengthen the country's economy and improve the standard of living for its citizens.
Why everyone chooses us
Citizenship by Investment Professionals is one of the leading international immigration law companies. Headquartered in Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis and Port Vila, Vanuatu CBI Professionals operates a global network spanning London, Dubai, Hong Kong and Lagos
We are an official licensed agent for several Pacific and West Indies Governments including Federation of St Kitts & Nevis, Republic of Vanuatu, Republic of Nauru and Kingdom of Tonga. Since 2010 we create and promote initiatives that support economic and social development of the countries we represent. CBI Professionals works closely with Pacific and Caribbean Governments and private sector, representing and facilitating outreach through our international offices, promoting citizenship programs and offering solutions for international investors.
REQUIREMENTS AND ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS
CBI Professionals also acts as:
- A link to ensure uninterrupted communication between our jurisdictions and key geographic centers of the world.
- An information resource for tourism, property investment and travel related enquiries.
- A resource for researching investment opportunities and bilateral trade.
- An administrative resource to support the citizenship application process.
Main applicant: Must be at least 18 years old, have no serious illnesses and criminal record, successfully pass a Due Diligence check, and provide proof of a legitimate source of income.
Spouse: Monogamous marriage or a de facto partner.
Children: Up to 30 years old.
Parents and Grandparents: Parents and grandparents of the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant aged 55 or over.
Spouse: Monogamous marriage or a de facto partner.
Children: Up to 30 years old.
Parents and Grandparents: Parents and grandparents of the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant aged 55 or over.
- Addition of family members in the future: Permitted.
- Citizenship to descendants: Inheritable.
- Language proficiency requirement: Not required.
- Personal presence for application submission: Not required.
- Interview: Not required.
- Taking the oath: required (online).
- Submission of biometrics: Required in person.
- Residency in Vanuatu: Not required.
- International passport.
- Internal passport or national ID.
- Birth certificate.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Marriage certificate.
- Obtained degrees, diplomas, or certificates for higher education.
- Personal Bank statement.
Why everyone chooses us
Citizenship by Investment Professionals is one of the leading international immigration law companies. Headquartered in Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis and Port Vila, Vanuatu CBI Professionals operates a global network spanning London, Dubai, Hong Kong and Lagos
We are an official licensed agent for several Pacific and West Indies Governments including Federation of St Kitts & Nevis, Republic of Vanuatu, Republic of Nauru and Kingdom of Tonga. Since 2010 we create and promote initiatives that support economic and social development of the countries we represent. CBI Professionals works closely with Pacific and Caribbean Governments and private sector, representing and facilitating outreach through our international offices, promoting citizenship programs and offering solutions for international investors.
CBI Professionals also acts as:
- A link to ensure uninterrupted communication between our jurisdictions and key geographic centers of the world.
- An information resource for tourism, property investment and travel related enquiries.
- A resource for researching investment opportunities and bilateral trade.
- An administrative resource to support the citizenship application process.
THE PROCESS OF OBTAINING CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT SÃo TOMÉ aND PRÍNCIPE
INVESTMENT SELECTION AND ONBOARDING
- Our specialist will help you choose the most suitable investment program based on your goals, family composition, and budget. We will calculate the exact investment amount and provide a list of required documents and conditions.
- Our compliance specialist will perform a preliminary screening of your documents to identify any potential grounds for rejection. This reduces the risk of denial during the citizenship-by-investment process and, if necessary, allows for adjustment of the selected program.
- In case of a positive outcome, we proceed with signing the agreement; otherwise, we will assist you in selecting an alternative investment program.
Timeline: 1–3 business days.
Payment: No payment is required at this stage.
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK
- This stage is carried out by the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Republic of Vanuatu, the Immigration Department, and Interpol. As a result, three letters of approval for citizenship are issued, subject to the submission of remaining documents and completion of procedural formalities.
- All family members over the age of 16 included in the application are subject to this process.
- To proceed with this stage, the following documents must be provided: a copy of the passport, a police clearance certificate, a brief resume, and information on assets (only for main applicant).
Timeline: The initial personal background check takes approximately 7 to 10 days, depending on the complexity of the due diligence process for the individual application.
Payment: At this stage, payment of the Due Diligence fee required. This amount is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the background check.
DOCUMENT PREPARATION AND APPLICATION SUBMISSION
- Our specialist will prepare a complete list of required documents and conditions for the investor and their family members. All documents must be submitted in English and properly legalized.
- Once the full document package is received, our specialist will complete all necessary forms and submit the application to the relevant government authority.
- Before submitting the application, the investor pays either 25% or 100% of the investment amount, depending on their preference. Typically, paying the full amount upfront shortens the passport processing time.
Timeline: Depends on how quickly the investor provides the required documents.
Payment: At this stage, a payment of either 25% or 100% of the investment amount is required.
CASE APPROVAL AND FULFILMENT OF INVESTMENT OBLIGATION
- The Citizenship Committee is reviewing the application package.
- Meetings are held twice a month.
- The Committee issues a positive decision on granting citizenship.
- Within two weeks after the meeting, our company receives written notification of the decision.
Timeline: up to 1 month.
Payment: At this stage, the remaining 75% of the investment amount is required, if it was not paid in advance before the final submission of documents at the previous stage.
CITIZENSHIP ACQUISITION
- After receiving written confirmation of the granting of citizenship of the Republic of Vanuatu, the final step is the swearing-in ceremony.
- Currently, the oath is taken online, so there is no need to travel to the island.
- Upon completion of the swearing-in ceremony, the Citizenship Commission issues a Certificate of Naturalisation and submits a request for a passport to the passport office.
Timeline: 1 day.
BIOMETRICS SUBMISSION
- Biometric data must be submitted in order to receive the passport.
- To submit biometric data, all new citizens of Vanuatu, regardless of age, must visit Vanuatu in person or one of the country’s approved overseas offices in the UAE, New Caledonia, or Hong Kong.
- The collected biometric data is then used to create a chip that is embedded in the passport.
Timeline: 1 day.
RECEIVING A PASSPORT
After the submission of biometric data, the Certificates of Naturalisation and passports will be delivered to the applicants at their preferred address.
THE PROCESS OF OBTAINING CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT SÃo TOMÉ aND PRÍNCIPE
INVESTMENT SELECTION AND ONBOARDING
- Our specialist will help you choose the most suitable investment program based on your goals, family composition, and budget. We will calculate the exact investment amount and provide a list of required documents and conditions.
- Our compliance specialist will perform a preliminary screening of your documents to identify any potential grounds for rejection. This reduces the risk of denial during the citizenship-by-investment process and, if necessary, allows for adjustment of the selected program.
- In case of a positive outcome, we proceed with signing the agreement; otherwise, we will assist you in selecting an alternative investment program.
Timeline: 1–3 business days.
Payment: No payment is required at this stage.
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK
- This stage is carried out by the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Republic of Vanuatu, the Immigration Department, and Interpol. As a result, three letters of approval for citizenship are issued, subject to the submission of remaining documents and completion of procedural formalities.
- All family members over the age of 16 included in the application are subject to this process.
- To proceed with this stage, the following documents must be provided: a copy of the passport, a police clearance certificate, a brief resume, and information on assets (only for main applicant).
Timeline: The initial personal background check takes approximately 7 to 10 days, depending on the complexity of the due diligence process for the individual application.
Payment: At this stage, payment of the Due Diligence fee required. This amount is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the background check.
DOCUMENT PREPARATION AND APPLICATION SUBMISSION
- Our specialist will prepare a complete list of required documents and conditions for the investor and their family members. All documents must be submitted in English and properly legalized.
- Once the full document package is received, our specialist will complete all necessary forms and submit the application to the relevant government authority.
- Before submitting the application, the investor pays either 25% or 100% of the investment amount, depending on their preference. Typically, paying the full amount upfront shortens the passport processing time.
Timeline: Depends on how quickly the investor provides the required documents.
Payment: At this stage, a payment of either 25% or 100% of the investment amount is required.
CASE APPROVAL AND INVESTMENT PAYMENT
- The Citizenship Committee is reviewing the application package.
- Meetings are held twice a month.
- The Committee issues a positive decision on granting citizenship.
- Within two weeks after the meeting, our company receives written notification of the decision.
Timeline: up to 1 month.
Payment: At this stage, the remaining 75% of the investment amount is required, if it was not paid in advance before the final submission of documents at the previous stage.
CITIZENSHIP ACQUISITION
- After receiving written confirmation of the granting of citizenship of the Republic of Vanuatu, the final step is the swearing-in ceremony.
- Currently, the oath is taken online, so there is no need to travel to the island.
- Upon completion of the swearing-in ceremony, the Citizenship Commission issues a Certificate of Naturalisation and submits a request for a passport to the passport office.
Timeline: 1 day.
BIOMETRICS SUBMISSION
- Biometric data must be submitted in order to receive the passport.
- To submit biometric data, all new citizens of Vanuatu, regardless of age, must visit Vanuatu in person or one of the country’s approved overseas offices in the UAE, New Caledonia, or Hong Kong.
- The collected biometric data is then used to create a chip that is embedded in the passport.
Timeline: 1 day.
RECEIVING A PASSPORT
After the submission of biometric data, the Certificates of Naturalisation and passports will be delivered to the applicants at their preferred address.
FAQ
- No, you cannot. Only an official licensed agent is authorized to apply on the investor's behalf. The representative will forward the investor's documents to the authorities.
- We are a licensed agent authorized by the São Tomé and Príncipe Government, so by working with us, you’re on the fastest path to obtaining São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship.
Yes, obtaining São Tomé and Príncipe investment citizenship is relatively straightforward. Applicants are only required to contribute to the country's economy and submit necessary documents and biometric data. There is no requirement to pass language tests, citizenship exams, or to live in the country for a set number of years.
For the current program, São Tomé and Príncipe offers a Citizenship by Investment program primarily through a non-refundable contribution to its National Transformation Fund.
- The São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship program offers a fast-track process, with most investors obtaining citizenship within 1 to 2 months. There are no language tests or interviews, simplifying the application. However, all applicants must submit biometric data either in Vanuatu or at an approved overseas office.
- The required investment starts at just 90,000 $, making it one of the more accessible options compared to other citizenship-by-investment programs.
- A São Tomé and Príncipe passport grants visa-free access to over 600 countries, offers tax optimization opportunities, and serves as a strong backup plan ("Plan B") for global mobility and security.
- São Tomé and Príncipe is a proud member of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP). Citizenship grants access to special residency, study, and work opportunities in member states such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.
The CPLP (Community of Portuguese Language Countries) is an international forum of 9 nations, including Portugal and Brazil, promoting cultural, economic, and political cooperation.
The primary benefit is the CPLP Mobility Agreement. This grants citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe simplified access to special work, study, and residency permits in member states such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.
The primary benefit is the CPLP Mobility Agreement. This grants citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe simplified access to special work, study, and residency permits in member states such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.
São Tomé and Príncipe does not require renunciation of your original citizenship. Applicants are not obligated to renounce their original citizenship if their home country also allows dual citizenship.
Yes, it is possible. New family members can be added to the application at any time in the future, though this will incur some additional costs.
Yes, São Tomé and Príncipe grants lifetime citizenship with the ability to pass it down to descendants.
As of late 2025, citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe are required to obtain a visa to visit the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom.
Citizens of all countries are eligible to apply, except for citizens of Iran, Iraq, Syria, North Korea, and Yemen. Citizens from these countries are not eligible to obtain São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship through investment. However, if investors from these countries have been residing outside their home country for at least five years and have resident status in another country, they may still be eligible to apply for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship.
In addition to a São Tomé and Príncipe passport, each applicant who obtains citizenship through investment will also receive a Citizenship certificate and National ID.
The São Tomé and Príncipe passport is issued for 10 years from the date of citizenship approval, after which it can be renewed for another 10-year period.
The renewal process takes about a month and does not require a visit to the island.
The renewal process takes about a month and does not require a visit to the island.
São Tomé and Príncipe offers favorable tax environment for investors and businesses.
Yes, after obtaining citizenship, you can change your name or surname. By law, such a change must be reflected in the documents of all countries where you hold current citizenship.
To apply for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship, the following documents are required:
- Passport and national ID from the country of residence
- Birth certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Bank statement
Visiting São Tomé and Príncipe is not required. The application can be submitted remotely, and the naturalisation certificate and passport will be delivered by a passport officer.
All applicants must submit biometric data either in Vanuatu or at an approved overseas office.
All applicants must submit biometric data either in Vanuatu or at an approved overseas office.
Anyone, regardless of age, can apply for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship. However, the following requirements must be met for a family application:
Children under 30 years old
Parents over 55 years old
- The main applicant must be over 18 year old, with no criminal record, no serious medical conditions, and the required investment amount.
- The main applicant may include the following family members in the application:
Children under 30 years old
Parents over 55 years old
No, São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship is granted in strict confidentiality, and the information is not disclosed to third parties. Additionally, tax information is not subject to disclosure.