Summary
Global migration is at an all-time high. In 2025, more than six million people received permanent status in OECD countries. At the same time, wealthy individuals face fewer investment routes as many programmes close and tax rules become stricter.
As a result, interest is shifting toward simpler and more affordable citizenship options.
São Tomé and Príncipe offers the lowest-cost citizenship by investment in the world, starting at $90,000. This is well below Vanuatu’s $130,000 and Caribbean programmes that begin at $200,000.
What is São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment?
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment programme was launched in August 2025 under Decree-Law 07/2025[1]. The state programme allows foreign nationals to acquire São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship through a non-refundable contribution to the country’s economy.
The minimum investment is $90,000, applicable to single investors. Couples and families of up to 4 people, pay $95,000, while additional $5,000 apply for every dependant starting with the 5th one.
The funds are directed to the National Transformation Fund, which finances infrastructure projects in energy, ports, airports, housing, healthcare, education, tourism, and industry.
Lyle Julien,
Investment programs expert
São Tomé and Príncipe takes a permissive approach to cryptocurrency and recognises it as an acceptable source of funds for the CBI programme. Applicants may rely on digital assets to demonstrate the origin of their capital, provided that the actual payment is made in US dollars.
In all cases, comprehensive documentation must be submitted to clearly confirm the lawful source and traceability of the funds.
Processing averages 2.5 months, with the fastest applications being approved in 1 month. São Tomé and Príncipe received 98 citizenship by investment applications between September 2025 and January 2026. The country reviewed 27 applications and has already issued its first passport.
The programme is operationalised by the Citizenship by Investment Unit, a public-private partnership based in Dubai and managed by the company Passport Legacy under a ten-year exclusive agreement with the São Tomé government[2].
São Tomé and Príncipe: country profile
São Tomé and Príncipe is a small island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western coast of Central Africa. It consists of two main islands, São Tomé and Príncipe, plus several smaller islets, with a total land area of approximately 1,001 km².
Language and society
The population is roughly 219,000, concentrated primarily on São Tomé Island and in the capital city, also called São Tomé. The population, known as Santomense, is predominantly of mixed African, Portuguese, and Creole descent. The official language is Portuguese, a legacy of Portuguese colonial rule until independence in 1975. Forro, a Portuguese-based creole, is also widely spoken.
Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion, often syncretised with traditional beliefs. Society is generally tranquil and family-oriented.
Political system
São Tomé and Príncipe is a stable, semi-presidential representative democratic republic. The President is the head of state, elected for a five-year term, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The autonomous government of the island of Príncipe was established in 1995.
The country is a member of the United Nations, African Union, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
Economy and development
São Tomé and Príncipe’s economy historically depended on cocoa production. In recent decades, the government has sought to diversify into tourism, leveraging the country’s biodiversity, pristine beaches, and rainforests.
The National Transformation Fund, financed by citizenship donations, is designated for infrastructure projects including renewable energy, port and airport upgrades, housing, healthcare, education, and industrial development.
Climate
The climate in São Tomé and Príncipe is equatorial, hot, humid, and tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. Annual rainfall varies significantly with altitude, supporting dense rainforests, particularly in the uninhabited southern parts of São Tomé.
São Tomé and Príncipe is known for its largely untouched natural environment, with dense tropical rainforests, much of them protected within Obo National Park and home to many endemic species
What are the requirements for São Tomé citizenship by investment?
The São Tomé and Príncipe CBI programme’s eligibility criteria focus on compliance rather than integration. Requirements are limited to basic personal, legal, and financial checks, with no language, residency, or cultural obligations.
Background
São Tomé citizenship eligibility requires applicants to be at least 18 years of age. Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record, provide proof of legitimate source of funds, and be in good health.
Nationality
North Korea is the only restricted nationality for applying for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship. Citizens of Afghanistan, Iran, or Venezuela, and nations often excluded from other CBI programmes are eligible.
Stateless persons are also permitted to apply for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship.
Language and citizenship exams
Applicants for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment are not required to learn Portuguese; they also do not need to pass any culture or history tests.
Residency
Applicants do not need to live in São Tomé and Príncipe or visit the country during the application process. The programme is designed to be fully remote, with document submissions and all interactions handled through licensed agents.
Family inclusion under the São Tomé and Príncipe program
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship makes it easy to include family members. Spouses, children, and other eligible relatives can be added to one application, helping families save money and avoid separate procedures.
The applicant’s spouse of the opposite sex is automatically eligible for inclusion. A civil partner may also be included if they can demonstrate cohabitation and shared financial obligations with the investor.
Children are eligible if they are unmarried, financially dependent on the principal applicant, and under 30 years of age. Legally adopted children are treated identically to biological children.
Parents and grandparents of the principal applicant or spouse are eligible for inclusion if they are aged 55 or older and financially dependent on the applicant.
The sum of investment depends on the family composition. Couples and families of up to 4 people, pay $95,000, while additional $5,000 apply for every dependant starting with the 5th one.
The investor may add family members later. A child born during the application process may be included before approval is granted, subject to a $500 fee.
All other relatives may be added only after the Certificate of Registration has been issued, provided they met the programme’s eligibility requirements at the time the initial application was submitted. The applicable donations are $10,000 for a spouse or partner and $5,000 for a child, parent, or grandparent, plus an additional $5,000 for submitting a new application.
São Tomé and Príncipe CBI cost breakdown depending on the family composition
How to obtain São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship: step-by-step guide
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment application process is fully remote, with no requirement to visit the country at any stage.
The process is managed through licensed agents, as direct applications to the government are not permitted. In Immigrant Invest experience, the procedure takes 2+ months.
1+ day
Preliminary Due Diligence
Immigrant Invest conducts a preliminary Due Diligence check to identify any circumstances preventing the applicant from participation in the programme.
Upon successful completion of the check, Immigrant Invest prepares a service agreement to provide further support. The process is fully confidential.
Immigrant Invest conducts a preliminary Due Diligence check to identify any circumstances preventing the applicant from participation in the programme.
Upon successful completion of the check, Immigrant Invest prepares a service agreement to provide further support. The process is fully confidential.
2+ weeks
Collecting documents and applying for citizenship
An assigned Immigrant Invest lawyer guides the applicant through the process of collecting documents and applying for citizenship.
The complete Application package is sent to the CIU by email. The CIU reviews the submitted documents and issues an Application Invoice, which the client must then pay.
An assigned Immigrant Invest lawyer guides the applicant through the process of collecting documents and applying for citizenship.
The complete Application package is sent to the CIU by email. The CIU reviews the submitted documents and issues an Application Invoice, which the client must then pay.
Up to 2 months
Due Diligence
A Due Diligence process is conducted to verify the applicant’s background and eligibility.
Based on the Due Diligence results, a recommendation is prepared and submitted to the Ministry and the Cabinet for review. The Cabinet then makes a decision on the Application and informs the CIU of the outcome.
After the Cabinet’s review, the CIU sends the decision, either an Approval in Principle Letter or a Rejection Letter, to the authorised representative, who informs the applicant accordingly.
A Due Diligence process is conducted to verify the applicant’s background and eligibility.
Based on the Due Diligence results, a recommendation is prepared and submitted to the Ministry and the Cabinet for review. The Cabinet then makes a decision on the Application and informs the CIU of the outcome.
After the Cabinet’s review, the CIU sends the decision, either an Approval in Principle Letter or a Rejection Letter, to the authorised representative, who informs the applicant accordingly.
1+ weeks
Investing
Once the Application is approved, the applicant makes an investment and pays fees for issuing a passport and other citizenship documents. Payments must be made within 90 days.
After making the payment, the client provides the CIU with proof of payment along with the Oath of Allegiance forms and passport application forms.
The CIU initiates the issuance of the Certificate of Registration, and applies for the São Tomé national ID card and passport.
Once the Application is approved, the applicant makes an investment and pays fees for issuing a passport and other citizenship documents. Payments must be made within 90 days.
After making the payment, the client provides the CIU with proof of payment along with the Oath of Allegiance forms and passport application forms.
The CIU initiates the issuance of the Certificate of Registration, and applies for the São Tomé national ID card and passport.
1+ weeks
Obtaining citizenship
After all formalities are completed, the CIU hands over the original documents, including the Certificate of Registration, national ID card, and passport, to Immigrant Invest for delivery to the client.
After all formalities are completed, the CIU hands over the original documents, including the Certificate of Registration, national ID card, and passport, to Immigrant Invest for delivery to the client.
São Tomé and Príncipe CBI programme statistics
São Tomé citizenship by investment program was officially launched in August 2025, and applications opened in September 2025. The first citizenship certificates and passports were issued in January 2026.
Nationalities. Approximately 80% came from five countries: Germany, India, Russia, China, and Nigeria. This mix reflects both emerging-market demand and some Tier 1 interest.
Processing time. As of January 2026, the programme had approved 27 applications in total, with an average processing time of 2.5 months from submission to passport delivery. The fastest case was completed in 1 month.
Programme’s revenue. As of October 2025, the programme had received over 50 applications, potentially generating more than $2.5 million for the National Transformation Fund.
What are the benefits of the São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship program?
The São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship programme is affordable, relatively fast, and easy to navigate. It suits investors who want a second passport without high costs or complex paperwork.
1. Lowest investment threshold
São Tomé and Príncipe offers the world’s lowest entry cost for citizenship by investment at $90,000, which is $40,000 less than Vanuatu and $110,000—160,000 less than Caribbean programmes.
2. One of the fastest routes to second passport
The average processing time is around 2.5 months, with the fastest cases completed in as little as 1 month. By comparison, Caribbean citizenship programmes generally take longer, with a minimum of at least 4 months in St Kitts and Nevis, while other Caribbean jurisdictions usually require approximately 6—8 months to process applications.
3. No physical presence requirements
Applicants are not required to visit São Tomé and Príncipe before applying, during the application process, or after citizenship is granted. There is no minimum stay obligation and no requirement to establish a genuine economic link with the country beyond the donation.
4. Dual citizenship
São Tomé and Príncipe permits dual and multiple citizenship. This means foreigners acquiring the country’s citizenship are not required to renounce their original nationality. However, this only applies to nationals whose countries of origin also allow dual and multiple citizenship.
5. Citizenship for family members
Close family members of the investor can be added to the citizenship application, including spouses, children up to 30, and parents and grandparents aged 55. Family members can also be added after the investor obtains citizenship.
Children born to São Tomé and Príncipe citizens automatically acquire the country’s citizenship[3].
6. CPLP access
São Tomé and Príncipe is a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries. Its citizenship may facilitate future residence or mobility options within Portuguese-speaking states, subject to national rules and possible policy changes.
Portuguese authorities are considering extending the naturalisation period from 5 to 10 years. São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the countries whose citizens would remain eligible for accelerated naturalisation after 7 years rather than 10.
7. Visa-free travel to 70+ countries
The São Tomé and Príncipe passport allows visa-free travel to 71 countries. Key destinations include South Africa, several Caribbean nations such as Barbados and Dominica, Central American countries including Costa Rica and Guatemala, and Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong in Asia.
The São Tomé and Príncipe passport is valid for 7 years for adults and for 3 years for minors under 16. Renewal can be done at any São Tomé and Príncipe embassy or at the CIU office in Dubai
What are the pitfalls and risks of São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment?
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment can support diversification goals, but it also has structural limitations and risks that may reduce its practical value for some applicants.
1. Limited and changeable global mobility
The São Tomé and Príncipe passport currently offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a limited range of destinations and does not provide regular entry to major economic centres such as the European Union, North America, or key Asian markets. Travel to Europe requires a Schengen visa, involving standard procedures and possible delays.
In addition, visa-free access under citizenship by investment programmes is not guaranteed to remain unchanged. The Vanuatu EU suspension example shows that mobility privileges can be reviewed or withdrawn over time, particularly for newer programmes.
As a result, travel benefits should be assessed both in terms of their present scope and their potential to change in the future.
2. Non-refundable investment
Investments made under the programme are irreversible, even if personal circumstances change. The contribution also does not bring any income.
At the same time, the programme reduces the risk of financial loss by requiring investors to transfer funds only after preliminary approval by the authorities.
3. No automatic tax benefits
Citizenship alone does not change tax residency or eliminate existing tax obligations. In reality, tax residency is determined by factors such as physical presence, economic ties, and domestic tax law, not by citizenship alone.
4. Programme novelty and regulatory uncertainty
The São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship programme is relatively new. Its rules, procedures, fees, and Due Diligence standards may evolve as the programme matures or responds to external oversight. Early applicants may encounter procedural changes or delays, making professional guidance important.
5. Banking and financial access risks
Some banks and payment providers apply stricter checks or limitations to holders of CBI passports from newer jurisdictions. Account opening and cross-border transactions may require additional documentation or face delays.
Applicants should confirm in advance that their banking and financial activities remain compatible with a São Tomé and Príncipe passport.
Who should consider São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship?
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship is usually considered by individuals who prioritise long-term flexibility, diversification, and discretion rather than immediate travel or lifestyle benefits.
People seeking a backup option and risk diversification
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship can be viewed as part of a broader personal or family strategy in case global conditions change. It complements a primary citizenship or residence permit and adds another jurisdiction for living, business, and long-term planning.
People who value privacy and political neutrality
São Tomé and Príncipe is a small, low-profile country that is not involved in major geopolitical conflicts. This can appeal to individuals who want to reduce exposure to political pressure and public attention.
Entrepreneurs interested in Africa and Portuguese-speaking markets
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship may be relevant as a long-term tool for working with emerging markets, particularly in Africa and within the Portuguese-speaking world. The focus here is not on the passport itself, but on regional presence and future opportunities.
Investors with a long-term perspective
São Tomé and Príncipe might be chosen by people who are willing to think 10—20 years ahead. Tourism, agriculture, sustainable development, and infrastructure projects are common areas of interest in smaller developing jurisdictions.
Who is São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship not suitable for?
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship is not suitable for the following individuals:
- People seeking maximum visa-free travel and easy access to the EU, the UK, or the United States.
- Conservative, risk-averse investors who prioritise long track records, regulatory stability, and broad acceptance by international banks. Such applicants may prefer to wait until the São Tomé and Príncipe framework is more established.
- Families that prioritise access to international schools, leading universities, and strong consular representation in major cities.
For these categories of applicants, more established programmes may be more appropriate, such as those offered in the Caribbean or Türkiye.
Trusted by 5000+ investors
Compare the Caribbean and Vanuatu citizenship by investment programs
What does membership in the Community of Portuguese Language Countries mean for São Tomé passport holders?
The Community of Portuguese Language Countries, CPLP, is an intergovernmental organisation founded on July 17th, 1996 to promote political, diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation among Portuguese-speaking nations. São Tomé and Príncipe is one of its founding members.
The CPLC comprises nine member states: Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, East Timor, and São Tomé and Príncipe[4].
Preferential treatment in Portugal
CPLP membership gives citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe easier access to immigration procedures in Portugal. Following the 2021 CPLP Mobility Agreement[5], Portugal introduced specific visa and residence pathways for nationals of CPLP countries.
In practice, this means simplified documentation requirements and, in certain cases, the possibility to apply for a residence permit from within Portugal after lawful entry. This does not grant automatic rights, but it generally makes the process faster and less bureaucratic than for non-CPLP nationals.
Pathway to Portuguese citizenship
CPLP nationals have a shorter pathway to Portuguese citizenship than other nationals. Portugal has proposed extending the general residence requirement for citizenship to 10 years, while maintaining a shorter 7-year pathway for citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries, including São Tomé and Príncipe[6]. These changes have not yet been adopted and remain under discussion.
Applicants for citizenship in Portugal must demonstrate basic Portuguese language proficiency and meet standard naturalisation criteria.
Access to Brazilian and other CPLP markets
Brazil also offers simplified visa and residence options for CPLP nationals, with streamlined procedures and, in some cases, faster processing.
More broadly, São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship can serve as a gateway to Portuguese-speaking markets in Africa, Latin America, and Europe. While CPLP membership does not provide free movement, it can reduce administrative barriers in countries that have implemented CPLP-specific mobility regimes.
Tax implications for São Tomé and Príncipe citizens
São Tomé and Príncipe does not impose worldwide income taxation on non-residents. Citizens who do not reside in the country are not subject to taxation on foreign income, capital gains, dividends, or inheritance by the São Tomé and Príncipe tax authorities.
Tax obligations for US citizens
United States citizens remain subject to worldwide taxation by the IRS regardless of where they live or what additional citizenships they hold[7].
US citizens who acquire São Tomé citizenship must continue filing annual tax returns, report foreign financial accounts under FBAR, and disclose foreign assets exceeding $50,000 on Form 8938 under FATCA. Failure to report foreign citizenship, assets, or accounts can result in severe penalties.
Tax obligations for UK citizens
United Kingdom nationals who acquire São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship while UK tax-resident remain subject to UK taxation on worldwide income. The UK’s abolition of the non-domiciled tax regime means that long-term UK residents cannot use foreign citizenship to shield offshore income from UK taxation. HMRC increasingly investigates CBI passport holders for potential tax evasion or avoidance schemes.
Banking compliance
Under the OECD’s Common Reporting Standard, financial institutions automatically exchange account information with tax authorities in clients’ countries of residence and citizenship. Acquiring São Tomé citizenship does not shelter assets from CRS reporting.
São Tomé and Príncipe CBI programme vs. other CBI programmes
Alongside São Tomé and Príncipe several countries offer citizenship by investment. This includes the following:
The table below compares São Tomé and Príncipe with other citizenship by investment programmes across key criteria, including minimum investment, processing time, mobility, and programme maturity.
Citizenship by investment programmes: comparison of key features
Country
Investment
$90,000+
$130,000+
$200,000+
$230,000+
$235,000+
$240,000+
$250,000+
$400,000+
Country
Processing time
2+ months
2+ months
6+ months
6+ months
8+ months
6+ months
4+ months
8+ months
Country
Visa-free countries
71
107
136
145
141
141
149
120
Country
Family inclusion
Spouse or partner, children under 30, parents and
grandparents over 55
Spouse, children under 25, parents over 50
Spouse or partner, children under 30, parents and
grandparents over 65
Spouse, children under 30, parents and
grandparents over 55, siblings
Spouse, children under 30, parents,
grandparents, siblings over 18
Spouse, children under 30, parents over 55, siblings under 18
Spouse, children under 25, parents over 55
Spouse, children under 18
Country
Programme launch
2025
2017
1993
2013
2013
2015
1984
2017
Country
Investment
$90,000+
$130,000+
$200,000+
$230,000+
$235,000+
$240,000+
$250,000+
$400,000+
Processing time
2+ months
2+ months
6+ months
6+ months
8+ months
6+ months
4+ months
8+ months
Visa-free countries
71
107
136
145
141
141
149
120
Family inclusion
Spouse or partner, children under 30, parents and
grandparents over 55
Spouse, children under 25, parents over 50
Spouse or partner, children under 30, parents and
grandparents over 65
Spouse, children under 30, parents and
grandparents over 55, siblings
Spouse, children under 30, parents,
grandparents, siblings over 18
Spouse, children under 30, parents over 55, siblings under 18
Spouse, children under 25, parents over 55
Spouse, children under 18
Programme launch
2025
2017
1993
2013
2013
2015
1984
2017
Why trust Immigrant Invest to obtain São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship?
To apply for São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship one must address a certified agent, as direct applications are not allowed. Immigrant Invest is licensed by the government of São Tomé and Príncipe to assist with obtaining citizenship.
Immigrant Invest has operated in investment migration since 2006, working exclusively through official, government-approved programmes. We are a licensed agent for citizenship and residency pathways in multiple jurisdictions, including the European Union and the Caribbean.
Immigrant Invest has an in-house Legal and AML Compliance Department staffed by certified AML specialists and Investment Migration Council members. Every case undergoes internal Due Diligence before submission, reducing the rejection risk to around 1%.
With a team of over 70 legal, compliance, and migration professionals, Immigrant Invest provides tailored solutions, from initial goal assessment to application support and post-approval compliance. As an EU-regulated licensed agent, the firm adheres to strict confidentiality and data-protection standards under the 6th Anti-Money Laundering Directive.
Key takeaways about São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment
- São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship by investment offers the world’s cheapest and among the fastest processing options. The minimum investment is $90,000 for a single applicant and the average processing is 2.5 months.
- The programme is fully remote with zero residency requirements.
- The main investor may include family members in the application, such as a spouse or partner, children under 30, and parents or grandparents over 55.
- São Tomé citizenship provides preferential treatment in Portugal, including simplified residence permit processes. The passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 70 destinations, but requires Schengen visas for EU travel.
- The programme started accepting applications in September 2025 and issued first passports in January 2026.
Immigrant Invest is a licensed agent for citizenship and residence by investment programs in the EU, the Caribbean, Asia, and the Middle East. Take advantage of our global 15-year expertise — schedule a meeting with our investment programs experts.
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Trusted by 5,000+ investorsSources
- Source: Full text of the Decree-Law 07/2025
- Source: STP-Press: Government launches Citizenship through Investment Program
- Source: According to the Article 2 of the São Tomé and Príncipe Constitution
- Source: Official website of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries
- Source: Diário da República: 2021 CPLP Mobility Agreement
- Source: Government of Portugal proving changes to the Citizenship Law
- Source: Internal Revenue Service website: US citizens and resident aliens abroad
