São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program Overview

Few countries manage to stay as authentic as São Tomé and Príncipe. This two-island nation in the Gulf of Guinea offers more than palm trees and beaches, it has a distinct character built on rich biodiversity, political stability, and a growing reputation for sustainable development.

In 2025, São Tomé and Príncipe introduced its Citizenship by Investment Program, a carefully designed route for investors, families, and retirees who want security and global mobility while supporting the country’s long-term transformation.

What makes this program stand out is its alignment with São Tomé and Príncipe’s priorities.

Investments directly fund projects in renewable energy, eco-tourism, education, and infrastructure, so applicants don’t just gain a second citizenship, they take part in building the country’s future.

For anyone searching for a credible new program that balances lifestyle benefits with meaningful investment, São Tomé and Príncipe deserves close attention.

Program Overview

São Tomé and Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment Program launched in 2025 with a clear mission: attract forward-thinking investors while fueling national development.

The program is built around the National Transformation Fund, which channels contributions into projects that matter most for the islands’ future, renewable energy initiatives, eco-tourism development, education, and infrastructure.

Who Should Apply for the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship Program

• Entrepreneurs with businesses in Africa who need easy, visa-free access across African markets
• Investors looking for a fresh alternative to the Caribbean or European programs, with lower entry costs and faster timelines
• Families who want to secure a second citizenship that includes spouses, children up to 30, and parents over 55
• Retirees seeking a stable, peaceful location with visa-free access and no residency requirements
• Iranians and Russians who face restrictions in many other citizenship by investment programs

Key Requirements

• Minimum investment: $90,000 (single applicant)
• Processing time: 2 months
• Residency requirement: none
• Family inclusions: spouse, children up to 30, parents above 55

This program connects investors with a forward-looking vision for one of Africa’s most stable and eco-conscious island nations.

Country Snapshot: Why São Tomé & Príncipe?

São Tomé and Príncipe may be small, but it offers a stable environment that appeals to both investors and families.

With just over 200,000 people, the islands maintain political calm and a welcoming atmosphere, making them a safe and accessible choice.

Key facts

• Capital City: São Tomé
• Currency: São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN)
• Official Language: Portuguese
• Time Zone: GMT+0

Lifestyle and safety

Life in São Tomé & Príncipe moves at an easy island pace.

The cost of living stays low compared to many destinations, while the natural surroundings offer an unspoiled backdrop for those who value peace and space.

Safety levels are high, and the community is known for its warmth and hospitality.

Economy and opportunities

The economy revolves around agriculture, fishing, and cocoa production, but eco-tourism and renewable energy are becoming new pillars of growth.

For investors, this creates opportunities not just for mobility, but for involvement in meaningful, long-term projects.

Connectivity

Despite its remote feel, São Tomé & Príncipe has direct regional flight connections and growing links to Europe and Africa.

This balance of seclusion and accessibility makes it attractive for those who want both retreat and reach.

Program Options and Investment Routes

São Tomé & Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment Program is built around a single, straightforward route: a contribution to the National Transformation Fund.

Government Contribution (Donation to NTF):

• $90,000 – Single applicant
• $95,000 – Principal applicant with up to three dependents
• $5,000 – Each additional qualifying dependent

This contribution directly supports national development priorities, including infrastructure, education, renewable energy, affordable housing, and eco-tourism.

Eligibility and Inclusions

The São Tomé & Príncipe program keeps its requirements straightforward while ensuring that only credible applicants qualify.

Main Applicant Criteria

• Age: at least 18 years old
• Clean criminal record, supported by police certificates
• Valid proof of source of funds

Dependants

• Spouse included under the main application
• Children up to 30 years old if financially dependent
• Parents over 55 years old if supported by the main applicant
• All dependants must provide clean criminal records (if of legal age)

Nationality Restrictions

The program is open to all nationalities, including stateless persons, except citizens of North Korea.

Costs and Fees

Applying for São Tomé & Príncipe’s program involves more than just the investment.

Applicants should factor in additional fees including:

• Submission fee: $5,000 per application
• Sponsor fee: $5,000 (if benefactor)
• Donation: $90,000 (single) / $95,000 (with dependents) / $5,000 per extra dependent
• Citizenship Certificate: $250 per applicant
• Passport: $350 per applicant
• National ID: $150 per applicant

Application Process and Timeline

The São Tomé & Príncipe program follows a straightforward process with defined steps and fast approvals. Most applicants complete the journey in under two months.

Step-by-Step Flow

• Pre-screening: Initial eligibility check and background review
• File Preparation: Collection of documents, notarisation, and submission
• Approval-in-Principle: Government reviews the application and issues conditional approval
• Final Grant: Citizenship or residency issued once investment is confirmed

Expected Timeline

• Processing time: 6–8 weeks (CIU aims to complete the process within two months)

Remote Application & Presence

• Applicants can complete most of the process remotely
• Biometrics and final issuance may require one short visit, depending on the investment route chosen
• Residency or citizenship does not carry a mandatory physical stay requirement

This efficiency makes São Tomé & Príncipe one of the fastest options for securing citizenship or residency in 2025.

Documentation and Compliance

Applicants must prepare a complete and properly legalised file to ensure smooth approval.

Missing or inconsistent documents can cause delays.

KYC and Proof of Source of Funds

• Bank statements showing at least 12 months of financial history
• Employment or business ownership records
• Declaration of lawful source of funds

Police Certificates, Medicals, Apostilles

• Police clearance from every country of residence in the past 10 years
• Apostille or legalisation for all key documents

Translation and Legalisation Tips

• Non-Portuguese documents must be translated by a certified translator
• All translations should be notarised to avoid rejection
• Plan for extra time when securing apostilles in different jurisdictions

Strong compliance is a cornerstone of the São Tomé & Príncipe program, ensuring the program remains credible and internationally respected.

Rights, Benefits and Obligations

Choosing São Tomé & Príncipe is about more than paperwork, the program comes with real lifestyle and financial advantages that appeal to different types of applicants.

Mobility and Security

Citizenship gives you a second passport that provides greater travel freedom and a secure fallback option in uncertain times.

For families, this means peace of mind knowing that they always have an alternative home base if needed.

Tax Environment

São Tomé & Príncipe doesn’t tax worldwide income, which makes it attractive for entrepreneurs, consultants, and investors who operate internationally.

Combined with incentives in eco-tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy, it creates room for smart tax planning while supporting sustainable industries.

Lifestyle Advantages

The islands offer a laid-back pace of life with low living costs, making them appealing to retirees and digital professionals who want calm surroundings without losing global access.

Families benefit from safe communities, growing education options, and healthcare access without the high costs seen elsewhere.

Business Opportunities

Starting a business is straightforward, and the government welcomes investors who contribute to long-term development.

From eco-tourism lodges to renewable energy ventures, citizenship opens the door to becoming part of São Tomé & Príncipe’s economic story.

Obligations to Keep in Mind

Like all credible programs, applicants must maintain a clean record, respect local laws, and uphold their investment commitments.

The balance of benefits and responsibilities makes this program both rewarding and reliable, with real impact for those who take part.

Title, Due Diligence and Developer Vetting

The government requires full due diligence on developers and projects.

Partnering with experienced advisors like Savory and Partners, ensures every stepis handled correctly.

Who This Program Suits

Every citizenship program attracts a different type of applicant.

São Tomé & Príncipe appeals to people who want more than just a passport, those who see value in lifestyle, impact, and flexibility.

High-Net-Worth Families

Families looking for a safe second option will find the inclusions generous. Spouses, children up to 30, and parents over 55 can all be added, creating multi-generational security under one application. For families who want peace of mind without uprooting their lives, this program ticks the box.

Location-Independent Professionals & Investors

Digital entrepreneurs, consultants, and investors who live globally will value the program’s no residency requirement.

You can secure citizenship, enjoy greater mobility, and still base yourself wherever opportunity takes you, all while having the islands as a reliable fallback.

Eco-Investment and Impact-Driven Applicants

São Tomé & Príncipe isn’t just selling citizenship; it’s inviting people to support green growth.

If you want your investment to make a difference, whether in eco-tourism, renewable energy, or social development, this program puts you at the heart of meaningful projects.

In short, the program suits those who want security and mobility, but also care about what their investment achieves.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Like any citizenship program, success depends on preparation and working with the right partners.

Here are the issues that applicants should look out for:

Source of Funds and Documentation

One of the most common reasons for delays is incomplete or inconsistent financial documents.

Authorities require clear proof of where funds come from. Applicants should prepare bank statements, tax returns, and business records in advance to avoid last-minute problems.

Unapproved Projects and Agent Risks

Not every development on the market qualifies for the program. Only government-approved projects count. Choosing the wrong one can cost both money and time.

Working through licensed agents and legal advisors ensures that your investment qualifies and your title is secure.

Timing Around Renewals and Travel

Applicants should keep a clear timeline for renewals, biometrics appointments, and submission deadlines.

Planning travel around these requirements prevents complications later on.

By anticipating these challenges early, applicants save time, money, and stress, and ensure their pathway to São Tomé & Príncipe citizenship runs smoothly.

How Savory and Partners Can Help

Navigating a new citizenship program can feel complex, but that’s where trusted guidance makes the difference.

Savory & Partners is authorised to promote and process applications for the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship Program. Our team has years of experience advising HNWIs and families on the best global mobility strategies, and we work directly with government-approved channels to ensure applications are handled correctly and securely.

If you want to explore whether São Tomé & Príncipe is the right program for you, reach out to our team today. We’ll guide you through every step, from first consultation to final passport in hand.

FAQs on São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship Program

1. How long does the process take?

Most applications are processed in 2 months.

2. Can I hold dual citizenship?

Yes, São Tomé & Príncipe allows dual citizenship. You can keep your original nationality while gaining a second passport.

3. Is there a language or cultural test?

No language or cultural test is required for citizenship.

4. Do I need to live in São Tomé & Príncipe?

No physical stay is required. You can complete the process remotely, with only a short visit needed in some cases for biometrics or final issuance.

5. Who can I include in my application?

Spouse, children up to 30, and parents over 55 can all be included under the same application, making the program family-friendly.

6. Is the program new and reliable?

Yes, it launched in 2025 with clear government oversight and strong due diligence standards. Savory & Partners is an authorized agent, ensuring secure and compliant applications.

References

República Democrática de São Tomé e Príncipe. (2003). Constituição da República Democrática de São Tomé e Príncipe. Governo de São Tomé e Príncipe. “Sao Tome and Principe 1975 (rev. 1990) Constitution.” (1990). Constitute Project. Referred from https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Sao_Tome_and_Prince_1990Constitute Project

United Nations Women. (n.d.). Sao Tome and Principe Constitution. UN Women Constitutions Database. Referred from https://constitutions.unwomen.org/en/countries/africa/sao-tome-and-principeGGE Constitutional Database

“Law on the Legal Regime of Foreign Citizens in São Tomé & Príncipe.” (n.d.). UN Migration Network Policy Repository. Referred from https://migrationnetwork.un.org/policy-repository/law-legal-regime-foreign-citizens-sao-tome-and-principeMigration Network

Country Profile: São Tomé and Príncipe (n.d.). Migrants & Refugees platform. Referred from https://migrants-refugees.va/country-profile/sao-tome-and-principe/Migrants & Refugees Section