São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
Government-Licensed Advisory by NTL
Programme Highlights
- Minimum Investment: USD 90,000 (single applicant) or USD 95,000 (family of 2 to 4)
- Processing Time: 2 months from complete application submission
- CPLP Membership: Special residency, work, and study opportunities across Portuguese-speaking nations
- Family Inclusion: Spouse, children, and parents eligible for citizenship
- Dual Citizenship: Permitted with no requirement to renounce existing citizenship
- Citizenship by Descent: Passes to all future generations
- Security: Ranked among the world's most peaceful and secure nations
- Investment Focus: National Transformation Fund supporting renewable energy, eco-tourism, and infrastructure
About São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe is a small island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western coast of Central Africa. Comprising two main islands and several smaller islets, this Portuguese-speaking nation is known for its biodiversity, natural beauty, and political stability. A member of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), the United Nations, and the African Union, São Tomé and Príncipe maintains strong international relationships and regional integration.
Location
Gulf of Guinea, Central Africa
Population
Approximately 200,000
Capital
São Tomé
Official Language
Portuguese
Currency
São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN)
Government
Presidential republic
Economy
Agriculture, tourism, and sustainable development
Main Airport
São Tomé International Airport (TMS)
Legal Framework
Governing Authority
São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme
The programme operates under the authority of the government of São Tomé and Príncipe, administered through the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Programme Establishment:
The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme was established to attract sustainable investment while providing qualifying investors and their families with citizenship and the associated benefits of CPLP membership.
Applications to the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme must be submitted through licensed marketing agents. NTL is an authorized agent licensed to submit applications to the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Investment Options
The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme offers one primary investment route through contribution to the National Transformation Fund, which supports sustainable development projects across the islands.
Government Fees and Costs
In addition to the National Transformation Fund contribution, applicants must pay submission fees and citizenship document fees:
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Submission Fee | 5,000 | Per application (paid at submission) |
| Single Applicant Contribution | 90,000 | National Transformation Fund |
| Family of 2 to 4 Contribution | 95,000 | National Transformation Fund |
| Each Additional Dependent | 5,000 | Per qualifying dependent beyond 4 family members |
| Citizenship Documents | 750 | Per applicant (Certificate of Registration, Passport, National ID) |
Post-Approval Inclusion Fees
For qualifying dependents added after the issuance of approval in principle:
| Dependent Type | Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse of a Citizen | 10,000 | Post-approval inclusion fee |
| Qualifying Dependent | 5,000 | Post-approval inclusion fee |
| Newborn Child (up to 1 year) | 500 | Post-approval inclusion fee |
Total programme cost includes submission fee, National Transformation Fund contribution, citizenship document fees, professional advisory fees, due diligence fees, and additional costs such as document translations, certifications, and apostille services.
Note: Legal, administrative, translation, and document certification fees are not included in government fees. Documents requiring translation and certification (Apostille or equivalent) will incur additional costs.
Eligibility Requirements
Main Applicant Criteria
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Age | Minimum 18 years old |
| Health | Good health with no communicable diseases (medical certificate required) |
| Character | Good character with no serious criminal record |
| Financial Standing | Sufficient lawful funds to complete qualifying investment |
| Source of Funds | Legal and verifiable source of investment funds |
| Due Diligence | Must pass comprehensive background checks |
Eligible Dependents
The São Tomé and Príncipe programme permits inclusion of qualifying family members in a single application:
Legally married spouse of main applicant (marriage certificate required)
Biological or legally adopted children of main applicant or spouse
Parents of main applicant or spouse who are financially dependent
Base investment covers main applicant plus up to 3 family members (family of 4 total). Each additional qualifying dependent requires an additional USD 5,000 contribution.
Programme Benefits
Citizenship Advantages
2-month processing timeline from complete application submission, one of the fastest programmes worldwide.
Permitted with no requirement to renounce existing citizenship.
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship passes to all future generations born after citizenship grant.
Spouse, children, and parents eligible for citizenship in single application.
Ranked among the world's most peaceful and secure nations with stable democratic governance.
One of the most affordable citizenship by investment programmes globally.
Contribution supports renewable energy, eco-tourism, and infrastructure development.
Streamlined documentation and efficient processing through licensed marketing agents.
CPLP Membership Benefits
São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship provides special residency, work, and study opportunities across CPLP member states, including Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.
CPLP Member States (9 Members):
- Portugal
- Brazil
- Angola
- Mozambique
- Guinea-Bissau
- Cape Verde
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- Timor-Leste
- Equatorial Guinea
CPLP Advantages: CPLP citizenship provides enhanced mobility, residency rights, and economic opportunities across Portuguese-speaking nations, representing over 280 million people across four continents.
Business and Lifestyle Environment
- Expanding Tourism Industry: Growing eco-tourism sector supporting long-term economic growth
- Favorable Tax Environment: Business-friendly tax policies for investors
- Peaceful Lifestyle: Welcoming culture influenced by African and European traditions
- Natural Beauty: Biodiversity hotspot with pristine beaches and tropical rainforests
Travel and Connectivity
- São Tomé International Airport (TMS): Direct flights to Lisbon, Luanda, and Accra
- Regional Connectivity: Seasonal and regional routes connecting to Africa and Europe
- Global Access: Convenient access to international hubs via major carriers
Visa-free access details are subject to change by destination countries. Applicants should verify current visa requirements before travel. CPLP membership provides significant advantages for residency and mobility within Portuguese-speaking nations.
Application Process
Applications to the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme must be submitted through licensed marketing agents. NTL is a licensed marketing agent authorized to submit applications to the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Process Timeline
Choose Your Licensed Marketing Agent
Select an authorized marketing agent to guide you through the entire application process. Your agent serves as your partner, providing professional advisory services and liaison with the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Collect Required Documents
Gather identity documents, police certificates, source of funds documentation, medical certificates, and supporting documents for all applicants and dependents. Your marketing agent will advise which documents are required for a successful application.
Submit Citizenship Application
After your application is finalized and submission fee paid, it will be submitted to the Citizenship by Investment Unit for processing through your licensed marketing agent.
Comprehensive Due Diligence Checks
Background checks are carried out by the government to ensure you meet the programme's requirements for becoming a citizen of São Tomé and Príncipe. Verification includes identity, source of funds, criminal record, and security clearance.
Citizenship Decision Communicated
The São Tomé and Príncipe government will advise your marketing agent whether your application has been successful. Upon approval in principle, you will proceed to investment completion.
Investment Completion
Following approval in principle, complete the National Transformation Fund contribution. Payment of government fees and citizenship document fees.
Citizenship Grant and Document Issuance
Following investment completion and payment of all fees, the government issues Certificate of Registration, passport, and national identity card.
Applications are typically processed within 2 months from complete submission. Actual timelines vary based on application complexity, completeness of documentation, due diligence requirements, and current processing volumes at the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Required Documents
Identity Documents
- Valid passport (certified copy of all pages)
- Birth certificate for all applicants
- National identity card (if applicable)
- Recent passport-size photographs
Civil Status Documents
- Marriage certificate (for spouse inclusion)
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if previously married)
- Birth certificates for all dependent children
- Adoption certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of dependency for dependent parents
Police Certificates
- Police certificate from country of citizenship
- Police certificate from country of residence (if different from citizenship)
- Certificates from countries where applicant has resided for extended periods
- All certificates must be recent and valid
- Certificates must be apostilled or legalized
Financial Documents
- Bank statements demonstrating source of investment funds
- Source of wealth documentation (employment records, business ownership, inheritance, asset sales, etc.)
- Bank reference letters
- Professional reference letters
- Proof of net worth
- Tax returns or tax clearance certificates (if applicable)
- Business registration documents (if business owner)
Medical Certificates
- Medical examination report from licensed physician
- Confirmation of no communicable diseases
- Health clearance certificates as required
Additional Requirements
- Curriculum vitae (CV) for main applicant
- Proof of residential address
- Declaration of any visa refusals
- Affidavit of support for dependent family members
All documents must be apostilled or legalized by the issuing country's competent authority. Documents in languages other than Portuguese or English must be officially translated by certified translators.
Specific Document Requirements: Your licensed marketing agent will provide detailed guidance on specific document requirements and formats accepted by the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Post-Approval Considerations
Investment Holding Period
National Transformation Fund: Non-refundable contribution with no holding period obligation. Contribution is permanent and supports sustainable development projects in São Tomé and Príncipe.
Citizenship Rights and Obligations
- Full Citizenship Rights: All rights and privileges of São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship
- Passport Validity: São Tomé and Príncipe passport validity period as per government regulations
- Passport Renewal: Passports may be renewed through São Tomé and Príncipe diplomatic missions
- National ID Card: National identity card issued with citizenship grant
Taxation
Tax Residency: Tax residency is determined by physical presence and domicile. Citizenship does not automatically create tax residency. Applicants should consult tax advisors regarding their specific tax obligations.
Favorable Tax Environment: São Tomé and Príncipe offers a business-friendly tax environment for investors and businesses.
Residency Requirements
Physical Presence: [NEEDS VERIFICATION - no specific residency requirement stated on official website]
Programme Changes
The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme operates under government authority and programme terms are subject to amendment. Investment thresholds, fees, procedures, and programme requirements may change by government decision.
NTL: Licensed Marketing Agent Services
NTL is a licensed marketing agent for the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme, providing comprehensive application support with established Citizenship by Investment Unit relationships and extensive programme experience.
Our Advisory Services
Eligibility and Suitability Assessment
Comprehensive review of applicant eligibility, family composition, investment suitability, and programme objectives.
Programme Guidance and Planning
Detailed explanation of National Transformation Fund contribution, processing timeline, CPLP benefits, and citizenship advantages.
Document Preparation and Review
Complete document collection, verification, translation, apostille coordination, and application form preparation.
Source of Funds Documentation
Guidance on preparing comprehensive source of wealth and source of funds documentation to satisfy due diligence requirements.
Application Submission
Submission of complete application package to Citizenship by Investment Unit as licensed marketing agent.
Unit Liaison and Application Management
Ongoing communication with Citizenship by Investment Unit, response to information requests, status updates, and application monitoring throughout processing.
Investment Execution Support
Coordination of National Transformation Fund contribution following approval in principle, including payment processing and confirmation.
Citizenship Certificate and Passport Procurement
Coordination of citizenship certificate issuance, passport application, and national identity card procurement.
Compliance Standards
NTL operates in strict accordance with São Tomé and Príncipe programme requirements and international best practices:
Government-licensed marketing agent with established Citizenship by Investment Unit relationships and submission privileges.
Comprehensive client verification and source of funds review prior to application submission.
All services provided in accordance with programme requirements and government regulations.
Adherence to international standards for citizenship and residency advisory services.
Request Your Eligibility Assessment
Contact NTL for a confidential consultation on São Tomé and Príncipe's Citizenship by Investment Programme. Our licensed marketing agents will assess your eligibility, explain the National Transformation Fund contribution, and outline the 2-month application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum investment is USD 90,000 for a single applicant or USD 95,000 for a family of 2 to 4 persons, plus a USD 5,000 submission fee and USD 750 per applicant for citizenship documents (Certificate of Registration, Passport, and National ID).
Applications are typically processed within 2 months from complete submission, making São Tomé and Príncipe one of the fastest citizenship by investment programmes worldwide. Actual timelines vary based on application complexity and due diligence requirements.
CPLP is the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries, a regional organization of 9 Portuguese-speaking nations. São Tomé and Príncipe citizenship provides special residency, work, and study opportunities across CPLP member states including Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique, representing over 280 million people across four continents.
Yes. São Tomé and Príncipe permits dual citizenship. Applicants are not required to renounce their existing citizenship. Citizenship also passes to all future generations born after the citizenship grant (citizenship by descent).
Eligible dependents include spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents of the main applicant or spouse. The base investment covers the main applicant plus up to 3 family members (family of 4 total). Each additional qualifying dependent requires an additional USD 5,000 contribution.
The National Transformation Fund supports sustainable development projects across São Tomé and Príncipe, including renewable energy initiatives, eco-tourism development, education and infrastructure, environmental preservation, and economic self-sufficiency programmes. The contribution is non-refundable and permanent.
Yes. Applications to the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme must be submitted through licensed marketing agents. Your marketing agent serves as your partner throughout the entire process, providing guidance, document preparation support, and liaison with the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Specific residency requirements are not stated on the official programme website. Applicants should consult with their licensed marketing agent for current requirements. Tax residency is determined by physical presence and domicile, and citizenship does not automatically create tax residency obligations.
Yes. Post-approval inclusion is available for qualifying dependents added after the issuance of approval in principle. Fees are USD 10,000 for a spouse, USD 5,000 for a qualifying dependent, and USD 500 for a newborn child up to 1 year of age.
Key advantages include one of the fastest processing times (2 months), one of the most affordable programmes globally, CPLP membership benefits providing residency and work rights across Portuguese-speaking nations, security as one of the world's most peaceful nations, dual citizenship permission, citizenship by descent for future generations, and contribution to sustainable development projects.
The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme operates under the authority of the government of São Tomé and Príncipe and is subject to amendment. Programme requirements, investment thresholds, fees, and procedures may change by government decision.
All applications must be submitted through licensed marketing agents. Applications are adjudicated by the Citizenship by Investment Unit. NTL provides professional advisory services to support compliant applications but does not guarantee approval, processing timelines, or investment outcomes.