São Tomé Citizenship by Investment Program: Quick Second Passport for $90K

The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program offers a fast and affordable path to a second passport starting at $90,000 for a single applicant or $95,000 for a family.

Through a contribution to the National Transformation Fund or approved strategic investments, applicants can obtain citizenship without residency requirements.

Compared to European and Caribbean programs, São Tomé and Príncipe stands out for its low cost, quick processing, and growing access to African markets.

For investors seeking diversification, tax optimization, or family relocation options, the African island nation presents an emerging opportunity.

This article covers:

• The benefits of São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship
• How to apply for São Tomé citizenship by investment
• How to get citizenship in São Tomé and Príncipe by birth, marriage, & naturalization
• São Tomé and Príncipe CBI vs Other CBI Programs

Key Takeaways:

• São Tomé offers one of the most affordable CBI programs, starting at $90,000 and approved in 2–3 months.
• Citizenship is granted without residency, interviews, or language tests.
• Passport provides visa-free access to African and Lusophone countries.
• Ideal for investors seeking diversification, tax efficiency, and a “Plan B.”
  

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The information in this article is for general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or solicitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.

What are the benefits of a São Tomé and Príncipe passport?

Benefits include greater travel freedom, access to African and Portuguese-speaking markets, and long-term financial security.

• Visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel:

Holders gain entry to several African and Lusophone countries, along with selected European and Asian destinations.

Though not as extensive as Caribbean passports, coverage is steadily improving.

Some of the destinations include:

• Singapore
• Philippines
• Indonesia
• South Africa
• Multiple Central American nations
• Various African countries

São Tomé is part of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), opening opportunities in Angola, Mozambique, Portugal, and Brazil.

• Emerging financial opportunities:

With ties to African Union programs and development partnerships with the EU, the passport is becoming more valuable.

• Residence security:

Investors gain the right to live, work, and study in the islands, benefiting from a peaceful, tropical lifestyle.

• Generational benefits:

Citizenship can be passed down to children, securing long-term advantages.

How to get São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment?

To obtain São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment, applicants submit their documents through a licensed agent and make the required contribution to the National Transformation Fund.

The entire process can be completed remotely.

Investment Requirements

To qualify for citizenship in São Tomé and Príncipe, applicants must make a non-refundable contribution to the National Transformation Fund (NTF):

• Single applicant – USD 90,000
• Family of up to four members – USD 95,000
• Each additional dependent – USD 5,000

Alongside the donation, applicants should also account for administrative costs:

• Application submission – USD 5,000 (per file)
• Passport issuance – USD 350 (per person)
• National ID card – USD 150 (per person)
• Citizenship certificate – USD 250 (per person)

The program also offers flexibility for future family changes. Dependents, such as a new spouse or children, can be added later for a reduced fee.

Applicants typically work with licensed agents who manage the entire process, from documentation and due diligence checks to government submissions.

Fees for these services vary depending on case complexity and are discussed during consultation.

Eligibility Criteria

The main applicant must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a clean criminal record (no sentences exceeding three years)
• Demonstrate a legitimate source of investment funds
• Pass all due diligence checks
• Be in good health

Family inclusion

The family inclusion policies are notably generous, allowing applicants to include:

• A spouse or civil partner
• Children up to age 30 (if unmarried and financially dependent)
• Parents aged 55 or older
• Legally adopted children

Future family additions are permitted even after citizenship is granted:

• New spouse – USD 10,000 + USD 5,000 resubmission fee
• Other dependents – USD 5,000 each
• Newborn children – USD 500

Application Process and Timeline

The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment program is carried out exclusively through authorized agents.

It follows a clear, step-by-step process from submission to passport issuance, which typically takes two to three months.

1. Initial Submission

Applicants begin by filing their application through a licensed agent and paying the USD 5,000 submission fee.

At this stage, the agent assists in collecting, reviewing, and preparing all required documentation to ensure compliance with program standards.

To ensure smooth processing, applicants must prepare and submit a comprehensive set of documents, which should be apostilled and officially translated into Portuguese or English where necessary.

These include:

• Valid passports – Certified copies of current passports for all applicants.
• Birth certificates – For the main applicant and all dependents.
• Marriage certificate – Required if applying with a spouse or civil partner.
• Police clearance certificates – Issued by authorities in the country of residence and any country where the applicant has lived for more than six months.
• Medical certificates – Confirming good health and the absence of contagious diseases.
• Financial documentation – Bank statements and evidence proving the lawful source of funds used for the investment.
• Reference letters – Both personal and professional references to establish character and credibility.
• Detailed CV or résumé – Outlining educational and professional background.

The accuracy and completeness of these documents play a crucial role in avoiding delays, making it essential to work with a professional agent to ensure everything is properly prepared.

2. Due Diligence and Background Verification

The program upholds rigorous due diligence procedures that align with leading Caribbean citizenship initiatives. This stage typically takes around six weeks and involves screening by both local and international security databases.

Applicants undergo:

• Extensive background investigations conducted by globally recognized firms
• Verification of compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations
• Screening for counter-terrorism financing (CTF) risks
• Assessment of politically exposed persons (PEPs)
• Verification of the legitimacy and origin of funds
• Cross-checking against international sanctions lists

These comprehensive measures safeguard the program’s credibility and strengthen the global recognition of São Tomé citizenship.

3. Approval in Principle

Once the applicant passes due diligence, the government issues an approval letter confirming eligibility for citizenship.

4. Investment Requirement

Following approval, the applicant makes the required non-refundable contribution to the National Transformation Fund (NTF).

5. Final Issuance of Documents

After the donation is received, the government formally grants citizenship. Applicants are then issued a certificate of naturalization, followed by a passport and national ID card.

Note: One of the program’s major advantages is its flexibility. There are no residency obligations, no mandatory interviews, and no language proficiency requirements.

São Tomé and Príncipe Nationality Law

The São Tomé and Príncipe Nationality Law is based on the country’s Constitution (amended 2003) and Law No. 07/2022 of 10 March 2022, which updates and replaces Law No. 6/90 of 13 September 1990.

Key Principles

1. Nationality of origin (“nacionalidade de origem”) is strongly emphasized. This means some people are nationals from birth by virtue of origin rather than by later acquisition.
2. National identity is protected for all citizens, inside or outside the country. The Constitution ensures that São Toméan identity applies to nationals residing abroad as well.
3. Dual nationality is permitted under many circumstances. São Toméans may hold another nationality without losing their São Toméan status, especially since the 2003 constitutional amendment. However, certain high offices (President, Prime Minister) may require exclusivity of nationality.

São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Birth

Under Article 5 of Law 07/2022, the following individuals qualify as citizens by birth:

• Children born in São Tomé and Príncipe to a São Toméan mother or father.
• Those born abroad to a São Toméan parent in the service of São Tomé and Príncipe.
• Born abroad to a São Toméan parent, if they make a declaration of wishing to be São Toméan.
• Born abroad with a São Toméan grandparent.
• Born in São Tomé and Príncipe to parents of stateless or unknown nationality (declared by the court).
• Born in São Tomé and Príncipe to foreign parents who reside in the territory and are not serving their home state (i.e., not diplomats, etc.)

São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Marriage, Adoption, or Other Routes

Citizenship may also be acquired after birth through:

• Marriage or registered partnership with a São Toméan national.
• Children under legal age (or other incapacitated persons) when a parent becomes São Toméan.
• Adoption by a São Toméan national.

São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Naturalization

Foreigners may acquire naturalization citizenship if they meet certain conditions. Citizenship can be withdrawn if duties or legal obligations are not fulfilled.

Key Requirements:

• Legal residence in São Tomé and Príncipe for at least five years.
• Sufficient knowledge of Portuguese or one of the national languages.
• Limitations on holding foreign nationalities (no more than two in certain cases).
• Special conditions may apply for individuals rendering relevant service, making an investment, or contributing culturally or in sports.

Loss and Renunciation of Nationality

Citizenship renunciation is permitted, provided it does not render the person stateless.

Loss of nationality for nationals by origin in certain cases (for example, if they perform certain acts such as serving in a foreign government, voting as foreign nationals, etc.).

Naturalized nationals can lose nationality for more reasons, including crimes against state security, disloyalty, or misuse/fraud in the naturalization process.

Does Sao Tomé allow dual citizenship?

São Tomé and Príncipe allows most of its citizens to hold dual or multiple nationalities.

Nationals by birth and naturalized citizens can maintain their São Toméan nationality even if they acquire another citizenship.

However, high-level government positions, such as President, Prime Minister, or top judicial roles, may require exclusive São Toméan nationality.

Children born abroad to São Toméan parents can inherit dual nationality, sometimes requiring a declaration of intent.

Dual citizens enjoy full rights, including voting, property ownership, and passport issuance, with restrictions applying only to certain public offices.

Is the São Tomé CBI Program Right for You?

São Tomé’s Citizenship by Investment Program appeals to different types of investors, from families seeking affordability to entrepreneurs expanding into Africa.

Here’s how different types of applicants can benefit:

• Budget-Conscious Families

For families who cannot afford premium EU programs, São Tomé offers a low-cost path to second citizenship.

Multiple family members can be included at a fraction of European investment requirements.

• African Market Investors

Entrepreneurs seeking entry into African markets gain strategic advantages, as São Tomé maintains strong regional trade ties.

Its location near oil routes and West African hubs adds economic value.

• Portfolio Diversification

Global investors looking to reduce risk by spreading investments across regions find São Tomé attractive.

The country offers real estate and infrastructure investment options with growth potential.

• Emergency Planning

Political or financial instability at home drives some investors to seek a “Plan B.”

São Tomé citizenship provides a safe haven, with residency rights in a neutral and stable island nation.

•  Tax Planning

São Tomé has favorable tax structures for investors, including reduced taxation on foreign-sourced income.

This makes it appealing to entrepreneurs aiming to optimize global tax planning.

São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program vs Other CBI Schemes

Compared with programs in Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis, and Malta, São Tomé provides a cost-effective alternative for investors seeking a second passport.

São Tomé CBI offers global mobility and regional opportunities without the high investment requirements of more established schemes.

• Dominica Citizenship by Investment

Dominica CBI program starts from $100,000 and offers visa-free access to the Schengen Zone, the UK, and Latin America. It’s know for affordability and a straightforward process.

São Tomé, however, is better suited for investors focused on African and Lusophone markets at a comparable or lower cost than Dominica.

• Grenada Citizenship by Investment

Grenada CBI program requires $150,000 (donation) or $220,000+ (real estate) and provides unique visa-free access to China and an E-2 US treaty.

São Tomé offers a more affordable option with stronger relevance to African business and trade.

• St Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment

The St Kitts & Nevis CBI, starting at $250,000, is the oldest and most recognized in the Caribbean, with access to 150+ destinations.

While reputable, it’s significantly costlier, making São Tomé appealing to budget-conscious investors.

• Malta Citizenship by Investment

Malta CBI program begins at €600,000+ and provides access to the EU and Schengen Area, ideal for high-net-worth individuals.

São Tomé, by contrast, delivers a faster, more attainable route for families and smaller investors seeking to diversify globally.

Conclusion

São Tomé and Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment program offers a strategic, affordable, and forward-looking opportunity for global investors.

While it may not yet match the travel benefits of Caribbean or European programs, it gives access to African and Portuguese-speaking markets, tax advantages, and long-term security.

Backed by government transparency and a focus on national growth, investors gain not just a second passport, but a stake in São Tomé’s economic transformation.

For families, entrepreneurs, and portfolio managers, it’s an accessible path to diversification and greater global mobility.

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