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São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment – A Complete Guide by Xiphias Immigration

XXIPHIAS01 Oct 2026

 Aerial view of São Tomé and Príncipe islands with green landscapes and pristine beaches.

Discover São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe is a small and peaceful country made up of two islands in the Gulf of Guinea, off the coast of Central Africa. It is famous for its green landscapes, quiet beaches, and relaxed lifestyle. Besides being a beautiful place to visit, it is also becoming popular for investors who want Citizenship by Investment in Africa.

At Xiphias Immigration, we help people and families through every step of getting citizenship in São Tomé and Príncipe. We make the process easy and clear, from understanding the rules to submitting all the documents. Whether you want a second passport, a safe place to live, or new investment opportunities, São Tomé and Príncipe offers a simple and promising option.

Why Choose Citizenship by Investment in São Tomé and Príncipe?

The São Tomé and Príncipe CBI program is becoming popular because it is affordable and easy to apply for. Unlike many other countries, it offers a fast process, a low minimum investment, and benefits beyond just getting a passport.

Some of the advantages for investors include:

  • A safe and calm place to live or retire

  • Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 58 to 61 destinations (not including the Schengen area or the UK)

  • Support from the government for foreign investors

At Xiphias Immigration, we help make sure your investment fits your long-term plans and guide you through the process smoothly.

São Tomé CBI Requirements

To apply for citizenship in São Tomé and Príncipe through investment, you need to meet a few key requirements:

The Key requirements of São Tomé CBI

  • Minimum investment: US$90,000 for a single applicant (US$95,000 for a family of two to four, plus US$5,000 for each additional dependant) as a non-refundable contribution, plus a US$5,000 non-refundable submission fee

  • Family inclusion: Citizenship can extend to your spouse, dependent children and dependent parents over 55; passport issuance for adult dependent children aged 18 and over is currently on hold pending a revised dependency law

  • No need to be there: The whole process can be done remotely without visiting the country

  • Clean record: All applicants must provide verified documents and pass background checks

  • Nationality limit: The nationality law bars applicants who already hold more than two other nationalities

At Xiphias Immigration, we guide you through every step, making sure your documents are correct and the process goes smoothly.

Understanding the São Tomé Citizenship Process

Getting a São Tomé passport is simple and clear. The steps are:

  1. Submit your application: Apply through the Citizenship Investment Unit (CIU) and pay the submission fee.

  2. Preliminary approval: The CIU reviews your application and approves it in principle.

  3. Pay the contribution: Complete the non-refundable contribution.

  4. Receive your passport: Once citizenship is granted, your passport is issued. The unit's first-year report records an average of about two months to approval and about four months to passport.

At Xiphias Immigration, we help you through every step, making sure the process is smooth, accurate, and fully compliant.

Investment Options in São Tomé for Citizenship

The programme has a single investment route:

  • Contribution: A non-refundable contribution to the national fund established by the programme's decree, which directs it to energy, port and airport infrastructure, urban development, housing, education, health, industry and tourism.

With guidance from Xiphias Immigration, investors can confirm the exact contribution for their family and plan the payment in line with the programme's rules.

Family Inclusion in the São Tomé CBI Program

The São Tomé CBI program allows citizenship to cover your family as well:

  • Spouse: Your legally married partner

  • Children: Dependent children; programme materials describe unmarried children up to 30, but passport issuance for those aged 18 and over is currently on hold pending a revised dependency law

  • Parents: Dependent parents over 55 years old

This makes São Tomé and Príncipe a great choice for families looking for safety, stability, and new opportunities. Xiphias Immigration ensures that every eligible family member is smoothly included in the application process.

Benefits of a São Tomé Passport

A São Tomé passport opens many opportunities for you and your family:

  • Travel access: Around 58 to 61 destinations visa-free or with a visa on arrival, including South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Türkiye and the UAE. The Schengen area and the UK require a visa.

  • Enjoy life: Experience a warm climate, peaceful surroundings, and a friendly community with a low cost of living.

With guidance from Xiphias Immigration, you can fully use these benefits for personal travel, business, or moving your family to São Tomé and Príncipe.

Key Facts About São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe is composed of two main islands: São Tomé and Príncipe. Here are some quick insights:

  • Flag: The São Tomé & Príncipe flag is green, yellow and red, with two black stars representing the islands.

  • Tourism: Beautiful beaches, rainforests, and coffee plantations make it a hidden paradise.

  • Culture: A blend of African and Portuguese heritage, creating a peaceful and vibrant society.

Even though this blog focuses on citizenship, knowing about the country’s culture and islands adds context for investors.

Why Choose Xiphias Immigration for Your São Tomé CBI

Getting citizenship in São Tomé and Príncipe is a big decision, and having the right partner can make it much easier. XIPHIAS Immigration works closely with you at every step, making sure nothing is missed and the process is smooth.

We provide:

  • Step-by-step guidance on São Tomé CBI requirements, so you know exactly what to do

  • Assistance in preparing and submitting all documents accurately

  • Tailored advice on the contribution and family composition that suit your personal goals

  • Full support from start to finish, helping your application succeed without stress

With years of experience helping clients gain citizenship in multiple countries, Xiphias Immigration is a reliable partner you can trust to make your São Tomé CBI journey simple and successful.

Conclusion: Your Gateway to São Tomé Citizenship

Getting citizenship in São Tomé and Príncipe is a straightforward way for families and investors to create new opportunities. The programme has a single, clearly priced contribution route, and you can see exactly which destinations the passport reaches before you commit funds.

With XIPHIAS Immigration, the journey becomes smooth and stress-free. We guide you through each step so your family can receive São Tomé and Príncipe passports and start a new chapter in a safe and welcoming country.

Ready to make your next move?

Speak with a XIPHIAS advisor — one team, end to end, from first call to residency.