February 2, 2026

Citizenship by Investment

São Tomé & Príncipe

In 2025, the island nation of São Tomé & Príncipe introduced a new path to citizenship for international investors. Backed by Decree-Law No. 07/2025, the initiative channels foreign contributions into the country’s National Transformation Fund, which finances housing, energy, schools, and other essential projects. For applicants, the appeal is clear. The process is quick — approvals can arrive in around six weeks, and the cost is among the lowest of any citizenship program worldwide, starting from USD 90,000. A successful application opens the door to a second passport that allows easier travel to more than 60 countries, including South Africa, Singapore, and Hong Kong. This isn’t just an investment in a passport. It’s also an opportunity to secure long-term stability for your family while helping a small but ambitious nation grow.

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Benefits of São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program

The São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment program allows international investors and their families to gain citizenship by contributing to the country’s National Transformation Fund. With one of the most affordable CBI options worldwide, the program is designed to provide fast processing, global mobility, and long-term security.

Other Benefits

Lifelong citizenship for the applicant and eligible family members.
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 60+ countries, including South Africa, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Dual citizenship is permitted, allowing you to keep your existing nationality.
No residency or travel requirements before or after obtaining citizenship.
Parents over 55 years and children up to 30 years can be included as dependents.
Fast approval timeline — citizenship can be granted in as little as 6 weeks.
Direct contribution supports national transformation in housing, education, and infrastructure.
Recognized as one of the most cost-effective second passport programs in the world.

Process Timeline

Step 1:

Client Assessment

Step 2:

Client On-Boarding

Step 3:

Documents Collection and Submission

Step 4:

Due Diligence Check

Step 5:

Approval and Investments

Step 6:

Issuance of Passport and Citizenship

Cost

Investment options to obtain citizenship

The program requires a non-refundable contribution to the National Transformation Fund (NTF), which supports key sectors such as housing, education, energy, and infrastructure.

Contribution

Government Fees

Service

Fee (USD)

Passport Issuance

350 per person

National ID

150 per person

Registration Certificate

250 per person

*Additional due diligence and processing fees apply.

About São Tomé & Príncipe

Discover More

São Tomé & Príncipe is a small island country in the Gulf of Guinea, just off Central Africa’s coast. It’s made up of two main islands and a handful of smaller islets. People know it for cocoa, thick rainforests, and long, quiet beaches. Life here is not rushed. Communities are small, and the culture values connection and simplicity. The country has a democratic system. Citizens vote for their Parliament, and the President acts as Head of State. While agriculture and tourism remain the backbone of the economy, recent years have brought more focus on energy and foreign-backed projects that aim at steady, sustainable growth. For an investor, São Tomé & Príncipe is more than just a postcard island. The mix of political calm, cultural richness, and government-led opportunities makes it a serious option for those thinking about a second passport. It’s a place that balances natural beauty with practical stability.

Capital: São Tomé

Total Area: 964 km²

Population: 241,295

Languages: Portuguese

Currency: Dobra (STN)

Exchange Rate: 1 USD ≈ 21.1 STN

GDP – Total (2024): USD 610 Million

Eligible Dependents

The program defines qualifying dependents as:

Spouses
Children up to 30 years old, if unmarried and financially dependent.
Parents over 55 years old

Eligibility Criteria for the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship Program

To qualify for the São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 18 years of age.
Have a clean personal and financial record with no criminal history.
Provide proof of a legitimate source of funds.
Make the minimum contribution to the National Transformation Fund (NTF)
Additional government processing and due diligence fees apply.

Nationality policy

Open to all nationalities, including Russians and Iranians.
Only North Koreans are restricted.

FAQ'S

Everything You Need to Know

How do I get São Tomé & Príncipe citizenship through investment?

Applicants must submit a completed application, undergo due diligence, and make a contribution (USD 90,000 for individuals) to the National Transformation Fund. After approval, citizenship is granted.

What is the ranking of the São Tomé & Príncipe passport?

As of September 25, 2025, the São Tomé & Príncipe passport is ranked 74th worldwide.

Which countries can I travel to visa-free with a São Tomé passport?

Santomean citizens currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 61 countries and territories.

Is dual citizenship allowed under this program?

Yes. São Tomé & Príncipe permits dual citizenship, so applicants do not need to renounce their existing nationality.

Do I need to reside in São Tomé & Príncipe or attend interviews?

No. There is no residency requirement and no interviews under this program. The process is largely remote.

How long does the citizenship process take?

The program is designed for fast processing. Citizenship can be granted in about six weeks.

Who can I include in my application?

Eligible dependents include spouse, children up to age 30, and parents older than 55. Future dependents can also be added for additional fees.

What benefits does the program offer beyond citizenship?

Benefits include global mobility through visa-free countries, family inclusion, fast processing, no residency requirement, and support for national transformation through the fund.

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